Angela Bassett And Courtney B. Vance Receive the 8th Order of the Golden Sphinx Award

Angela Bassett And Courtney B. Vance spent their Sunday evening chatting with the Harvard community and pulling back the curtain on their incredible careers. The reason for their visit to Cambridge is the Order of the Golden Sphinx award, the highest honor bestowed by The Hasty Pudding Institute. It aims to recognize individuals in the entertainment industry for their extraordinary contributions to the performing arts, a feat both Bassett and Vance have made in strides. The night began with a witty performance from the Hasty Pudding company, where they said "You're welcome" to the honorees for having the opportunity to witness the company's theatrical skills.

Soon after, Bassett and Vance joined Andrew Farkas ’82, Graduate Chairman of The Hasty Pudding Institute on stage for an intimate Q&A. Students and audience members stood up to ask an array of questions. Inquiries ranged from personal topics like how the couple met to career questions. Bassett revealed that she became so overcome with emotion at a Broadway performance of Of Mice And Men starring James Earl Jones that it inspired her to start acting to make others feel the same way. When asked how to get started in the industry, Vance encouraged students to create right where they are now and not to put off the moment until they find the right place. While beginners may not have all the knowledge, he urged students not to feel shame and instead lead with their curiosity. Their responses had an effortless mix of humor and genuine reflection. Below are our favorite quotes from the stars:

"Don't let anybody make you feel that you don't belong" - Courtney B. Vance

"Keep the joy-stealers at bay" - Angela Bassett

Following Boston correspondent Samantha Davidson asked them about their production company, Bassett Vance Productions.

"Bassett Vance Production amplifies diverse voices and thought-provoking stories. How do you know when a project will be a good fit? What qualities stand out to you?"

They credited their team for having exquisite taste and helping them narrow down which scripts have the potential to become striking and impactful features.

Each year, The Hasty Pudding Institute donates $50,000 to the recipient's charity of choice as part of their unwavering mission of philanthropy. Bassett and Vance selected the incredible Heartfelt Education through the Arts Inc. The H.E.ART provides a healthy, creative, and inclusive environment to empower performers of all kinds to pursue their passions. They foster young talent and offer programs that develop their skills as entertainers and people. After watching an inspiring video about their mission, Bassett revealed she has a personal connection to the organization. Founder and dance instructor Eartha Robinson worked with Bassett to help her prepare for her portrayal of Tina Turner in What’s Love Got to Do with It. Bassett credits Robinson for giving her the confidence to feel more like a "triple threat."

At the end of the night, their twins Slater and Bronwyn Vance presented them with the coveted award. The emotional and vulnerable moment they shared touched all. Courtney B. Vance expressed his gratitude to the university for honoring them and stressed the importance of family.

The night ended with another playful performance featuring an impersonation of Tina Turner and Harvard's oldest a cappella group, The Harvard Krokodiloes, singing backup.