The Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor
Presenting Sponsor Capital One
CelebratingJon Stewart

The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor
April 24, 2022
On Sunday, April 24, 2022, the Kennedy Center will present the 23rd annual Mark Twain Prize for American Humor to Jon Stewart. Widely considered to be the nation’s highest recognition for humorists, the Prize honors an artist each year who has unquestionably shaped the world of comedy. With the help of an all-star cast, the Center will celebrate Jon’s career and indelible impact on American comedy.
The Prize is one of Washington’s premier social events The evening will include a pre-performance cocktail reception, high-energy performance, and exclusive after-party. Prior to the performance, enjoy a cocktail overlooking the Potomac River on the Kennedy Center’s iconic River Plaza. The performance will feature excerpts from Jon’s body of work, anecdotes from fellow actors and comedians, and unforgettable musical performances. Following the performance, guests will make their way to the REACH, the Kennedy Center’s newest show-stopping venue, where guests will sip and mingle among comedy’s biggest stars. The star-studded after-party will include creative culinary and cocktail stations plus a dancefloor and entertainment to cap off an unforgettable evening.
For more information, please contact the Kennedy Center Special Events Office at (202) 416-8335 or [email protected]
Event Information
Event Packages
Open Mic | $1,300 (limit of 5)
- One (1) reserved orchestra or first tier seat for the performance and presentation of the Mark Twain Prize
- Admission for (1) guest to the pre-performance cocktail reception and post-performance celebration
- Complimentary Kennedy Center garage parking on event evening
- Recognition as an Open Mic sponsor in the evening’s commemorative book
Director | $15,000
- Eight (8) reserved prime seats for the performance and presentation of the Mark Twain Prize
- Admission for all eight (8) guests to the pre-performance cocktail reception and post-performance celebration
- Complimentary Kennedy Center garage parking for all eight (8) guests on event evening
- Opportunity to purchase upgrade for two (2) guests to attend an exclusive Mark Twain Prize event on April 23, 2022 (+$3,000)
- Recognition as a Director sponsor in the evening’s commemorative book


Guest Star | $25,000
- Ten (10) reserved premium seats for the performance and presentation of the Mark Twain Prize
- Admission for all ten (10) guests to the pre-performance cocktail reception and post-performance celebration
- Complimentary Kennedy Center garage parking for all ten (10) guests on event evening
- Opportunity to purchase upgrade for two (2) or four (4) guests to attend an exclusive Mark Twain Prize event on April 23, 2022 (+$3,000 or $6,000)
- Sponsorship recognition on high-visibility, onsite signage
- Recognition as a Guest Star sponsor in the evening’s commemorative book
Headliner | $50,000
- Twelve (12) reserved premium seats for the performance and presentation of the Mark Twain Prize
- One table for twelve (12) at the Opening Act pre-performance Dinner
- Admission for all twelve (12) guests to the post-performance party
- Complimentary Kennedy Center garage parking for all twelve (12) guests on event evening
- Invitation for four (4) to attend exclusive Mark Twain Prize event on April 23, 2022
- Sponsorship recognition on high-visibility, onsite signage
- Recognition from the stage during the Mark Twain Prize performance
- Recognition as a Headliner sponsor in the evening’s commemorative book
- “Billboard” recognition at the close of the televised program
- Mark Twain Prize poster signed by the cast of the performance
About the Mark Twain Prize
The Mark Twain Prize recognizes people who have had an impact on American society in ways similar to the distinguished 19th century novelist and essayist best known as Mark Twain. As a social commentator, satirist and creator of memorable characters, Samuel Clemens was a fearless observer of society, who startled and outraged many while delighting and informing many more with his uncompromising perspective of social injustice and personal folly. He revealed the great truth of humor when he said "against the assault of laughter nothing can stand."