Lin-Manual Miranda Makes Surprise Appearance at 'Hamilton: An American Musical' Honoring Javier Muñoz

Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) honored Javier Mu�oz, Broadway star in the lead role in "Hamilton: An American Musical," with the 2016 Howard Ashman Award for his activism in the fight against HIV/AIDS, at a Cabaret at Joe's Pub on Monday, September 19.

"I am truly moved by the honor from GMHC," said Javier Mu�oz. "As a gay man living with HIV, I know how important treatment and support are in order to have a healthy life. That's why I am committed to using my voice to raise awareness about HIV-related stigma and other barriers that block people from seeking care. GMHC's life-sustaining services and programs are vital to all of us."

Two months after being diagnosed with HIV in 2002, Javier moved from San Francisco to New York City and one of the first places he came to for support was GMHC. "The first place I went to for assistance was GMHC. It was at GMHC that I started my fight to live," said Javier in his remarks. Javier has consistently spoken out about his status, particularly in the media, because of the stigma directed at people living with HIV/AIDS. Javier is also a recent survivor of cancer, and openly gay. Former Hamilton star Lin-Manuel Miranda made a surprise appearance at the Cabaret, congratulated his friend Javier in a heartfelt speech, and sang "I'm out" a song from "In the Heights."

This year's cabaret was completely sold out. All proceeds will support GMHC's programs, services, and advocacy, which benefit more than 10,000 clients every year. The event was co-hosted by Marty Thomas, Broadway performer and Grammy-nominated recording artist. A pair of tickets to "Hamilton: An American Musical" were auctioned off for $4,000.

Uzo Aduba, a close friend of Javier's who currently stars as Suzanne "Crazy Eyes" Warren in "Orange is the New Black" gave remarks. Sarah Ashman Gillespie, sister of the late Howard Ashman, an American playwright and lyricist for which the Howard Ashman award is named, spoke. Kurt Crowley, Music Director of Hamilton served as Musical Director and Pianist for the Cabaret and Michael Heitzman served as Director.

Broadway artists performed at the Cabaret, including Robin De Jesus ("Wicked," "In the Heights"); Alton Fitzgerald White ("The Lion King"); Rosie Lani Fiedelman and James Brown Orleans ("The Lion King"); Henry Gainza ("On Your Feet!"); Ana Villafa�e ("On Your Feet!"); and Ryann Redmond ("If/Then").

The Howard Ashman Award is named after the Oscar and Grammy-winning lyricist of "Beauty and the Beast," "The Little Mermaid," and "Aladdin" who passed away due to AIDS-related complications in 1991. GMHC created the Howard Ashman Award in conjunction with the Ashman family. The award honors a member of the Broadway community whose art and activism have made a difference in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

"We applaud Javier Mu�oz's success on Broadway and are thankful for his openness about being HIV-positive," said GMHC CEO Kelsey Louie. "We know the consequences of stigma and discrimination are far-reaching for those living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Every day at GMHC, we see clients who have been shunned by family and friends, others who have faced poor treatment while accessing services in their communities, and some struggle with mental health and substance abuse issues."

"Stigma and discrimination undermine HIV prevention efforts by making people afraid to seek prevention, testing and care. In order for us to end the AIDS epidemic, we must end stigma," he continued. "For over 30 years, members of the Broadway community have been some of our most devoted allies, advocates and fundraisers in this fight. The GMHC family is honored to celebrate and thank Javier with this year's Howard Ashman Award."