As the golden light of a Hamptons summer evening gives way to cocktails and conversation, guests will gather amid a setting inspired by the timeless glamour of Monte Carlo and the sun-drenched elegance of the South of France. Hosted by Princess Grace Foundation Trustee Richard Kirshenbaum and his wife, this intimate Crown Patron soirée will celebrate culture, creativity, and community while honoring the enduring legacy of Princess Grace of Monaco and her vision of nurturing the next generation of performing artists.
More than a social occasion, the gathering serves as an introduction to the Princess Grace Foundation-USA’s extraordinary mission and the remarkable artists whose careers it has helped launch. Award winners in film, theater, and dance will join trustees, Crown Patrons, Guild members, Monegasque officials, and distinguished guests, creating the kind of meaningful exchange that has long defined the Foundation’s unique community. The evening will also recognize this year’s Princess Grace Awards honoree, acclaimed filmmaker and director John M. Chu, whose artistic journey began as a Princess Grace Award recipient before achieving international acclaim.
The soirée reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to cultivating a community of supporters who understand the essential role of the arts in society. At a time when creative pursuits can too easily be overshadowed by more immediate concerns, the Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to champion emerging talent and ensure that artistic excellence continues to flourish for generations to come.
For Richard Kirshenbaum, hosting this special evening in Sagaponack is both a personal honor and a meaningful way to share the Foundation’s inspiring work with new audiences. Ahead of the Summer Soirée, Social Lifestyle Magazine sat down with Kirshenbaum to discuss the vision behind the event, the importance of fostering connections through the arts, and why Princess Grace’s dream of supporting exceptional young artists remains as relevant today as ever.
It is an honor to speak with Richard Kirshenbaum in anticipation of the Summer Soirée and to share his insights with readers of Social Lifestyle Magazine:
Meghan Forte: What inspired the vision for this Summer Cocktail Soirée?
Richard Kirshenbaum: This is a Crown Patron event for the Princess Grace Foundation—a summer cocktail soirée designed to introduce new people to the Foundation’s mission and its grants supporting the next generation of performing artists, while honoring the legacy of the late Princess Grace of Monaco. The theme and visual cues are inspired by summers in Monte Carlo and the South of France, bringing a sense of elegance and ease to the evening.
Meghan Forte: How does this event reflect the spirit and mission of the Princess Grace Foundation-USA?
Richard Kirshenbaum: The event brings together past and present award winners in film, dance, and theatre, along with trustees, Crown Patrons, younger Guild members, and Monegasque officials. By connecting guests directly with this community, they gain a real understanding of the Foundation’s mission—to nurture and support the next generation of great performing artists.
Meghan Forte: What makes this event unique?
Richard Kirshenbaum: This is a social summer cocktail soirée. It is designed to feel relaxed and inviting, allowing for connection in a more informal setting among friends.
Meghan Forte: Why was Sagaponack chosen as the setting for this gathering?
Richard Kirshenbaum: My wife Dana and I wanted to host a Hamptons event for the Foundation. It felt like the perfect setting—intimate and ideal for bringing people together in the spirit of summer.
Meghan Forte: How important are intimate gatherings like this in building long-term support for the arts?
Richard Kirshenbaum: Social gatherings like this are incredibly important. They create opportunities for like-minded people to connect, while also educating guests about the Foundation’s work and its extraordinary roster of award winners. These personal connections help build lasting support.
Meghan Forte: Why does supporting emerging artists feel especially urgent right now?
Richard Kirshenbaum: With so many pressing needs in the world, the arts can sometimes be overlooked. Yet it’s crucial that we continue to invest in and support the arts and culture, ensuring that new voices and creative talent have the opportunity to thrive.
Meghan Forte: If this event inspires one lasting takeaway for guests, what do you hope it is?
Richard Kirshenbaum: I hope guests leave with a deeper appreciation for the legacy of Princess Grace of Monaco and her vision of supporting the next generation of performing artists—and feel inspired to be part of continuing that dream.
When the evening draws to a close, its legacy will linger—carried through new connections, shared inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for the arts. What begins as a summer gathering in Sagaponack will become something more enduring: an invitation to be part of a legacy that champions creativity and nurtures future talent. In that sense, the soirée is not an ending, but a beginning—one that continues to bring Princess Grace’s vision to life for generations to come.
Thank you to Mr. Richard Kirshenbaum for taking the time to speak with Social Lifestyle Magazine. His continued dedication to the arts is truly inspiring and helps create meaningful opportunities for the next generation of artists.
Richard Kirshenbaum Professional Website
Richard Kirshenbaum Instagram Profile
The Princess Grace Foundation USA Website