With Broadway's post 9/11 struggles in the rear-view mirror, it is clear that musicals are once again one of the biggest attractions in the Big Apple. And in a controversial shift from the traditional, many of the musicals rely heavily on pre-existing movies, songs and stars.

Ambassador Kounalakis presented them with the Ambassador’s Award for Cultural Diplomacy, saying “your work is a superb blend of the best elements of the East and West with a truly American style…