New England Patriots owner, Robert Kraft, masterminded an unforgettable event at the famous Apollo Theater in Harlem to celebrate his wife, Dr. Dana Blumberg’s 50th birthday. The surprise party, featuring a live performance by Dave Matthews, was kept under wraps for an impressive five months. Kraft, who is actively involved in the Apollo as a board member, invited over 200 close friends and family members to join in the celebration of this significant milestone.
Kraft’s dedication to giving his beloved wife a surprise she would remember for a lifetime was evident in the detailed planning that went into the event. He orchestrated the surprise by informing Blumberg that the theater would be closing for renovations and that they had a vital event to attend. The ruse was so convincing that even the marquee outside proclaimed “Renovation Party” until it was later changed to “Happy Birthday DMK! Thanks for celebrating with us!” It was a clever way to maintain the secrecy and ensure the surprise was not spoiled.
Collaboration and Winks
One of the highlights of the evening was Dave Matthews’ participation in the surprise. According to insiders, during Matthews’ performance, he shared a story with the guests about Kraft and Blumberg attending his concert at Madison Square Garden several months prior. Matthews playfully said, “Hope to see you soon,” to the couple backstage. Little did everyone know, those words were exchanged with a knowing wink between the singer and Kraft, foreshadowing the surprise to come.
A Star-Studded Celebration
The guest list for this extraordinary birthday bash included notable figures from various industries. Jon Bon Jovi, Shari Redstone, David Zaslav, Stephen Schwarzman, Ari Emmanuel, and his wife Sarah Staudinger were among the attendees. Other prominent figures who graced the event were Michael Rubin, Roger Goodell, Casey Wasserman, Brian Moynihan, Ken Langone, Linda Fargo, James and Merryl Tisch, Richard and Karen Lefrak, Jerry Speyer, and Jonathan Kraft, alongside extended members of both the Kraft and Blumberg families.
During his speech, Kraft expressed his deep connection to the Apollo Theater, reminiscing about his days as a college student attending the theater’s renowned amateur nights when he was at Columbia University. His love for the theater and its rich cultural heritage made it the perfect venue for this momentous occasion. Kraft highlighted how intelligent his wife is, acknowledging that it was a challenge to plan an event that wouldn’t raise her suspicions. Blumberg, clearly taken aback by the surprise, expressed her gratitude and humility when she addressed the crowd, saying, “Robert told me that the Apollo Theater had a special event tonight… I am so honored and humbled. I tell people that I waited for a prince and I got a king.”
As the night progressed, Dave Matthews presented Blumberg with a cake while leading the crowd in singing happy birthday. The night was not only about celebration but also about fostering love and spreading joy. Kraft, well aware of the many challenges in the world, aimed to create an evening that would bring people together and build bridges. His commitment to making a difference is evident through his Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, which has launched a significant anti-hate campaign with a budget of $25 million.
Robert Kraft continues to demonstrate his dedication to his loved ones and the causes he holds dear. The surprise birthday party at the Apollo Theater will forever be etched in the memories of those who attended, showcasing the power of love and the importance of celebrating life’s milestones.
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