Nevada Ballet Theatre has announced that businesswoman, author, TV personality and philanthropist Lisa Vanderpump will be honored as its 2026 Woman of the Year for her remarkable career, charitable and humanitarian efforts and commitment to Las Vegas at NBT’s Annual Black & White Ball on Saturday, April 11, at Encore Las Vegas.

A visionary whose childhood included dance, drama school and acting, Vanderpump has made her mark on Las Vegas through her partnership with Caesars Entertainment. They have launched three concepts on The Las Vegas Strip: Vanderpump Cocktail Garden at Caesars Palace (in the main photo by Patrick Gray of Kabik Photo Group for Caesars Entertainment), Vanderpump à Paris at Paris Las Vegas and Pinky’s by Vanderpump at Flamingo Las Vegas.

Vanderpump and Caesars have also teamed up to transform The Cromwell into The Vanderpump Hotel, a boutique set to open this year and Vanderpump’s first hotel. Last fall, Vanderpump was awarded the Equality Visibility Award by Silver State Equality for her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community, and her passion for animals is evident through The Vanderpump Dog Foundation. 

“Lisa Vanderpump’s life and work reflect the discipline and dedication of dance and the bold imagination of Las Vegas,” said NBT President & CEO Beth Barbre. “With early roots in the performing arts, she understands the power of creativity to inspire and uplift. That spirit is reflected in her commitment to giving back and her support of local nonprofits and charitable efforts.”

Vanderpump joins a list of honorees that includes Elaine Wynn, Debbie Reynolds, Chita Rivera, Celine Dion, Rita Rudner, Paula Abdul, Marie Osmond, Priscilla Presley, Eva Longoria, Debbie Allen, Olivia Newton-John, Shania Twain, Florence Henderson and Debbie Gibson.

“I’ve absolutely loved becoming part of this vibrant Las Vegas community; there’s nothing quite like the energy here,” said Vanderpump. “I’m incredibly honored to be recognized as Nevada Ballet Theatre’s Woman of the Year, as ballet has always been a huge part of my life, having been immersed in a ballet school as a child and young adult. It brings me great joy to support the artistry and passion that make this city shine.”

Proceeds from The Black & White Ball support all areas of NBT, including its professional company and main stage productions at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, its affiliated School of Nevada Ballet Theatre and its Community Education efforts that provide more than 20,000 students a year with free in-school dance classes, access to essential arts programs and scholarship opportunities.