Distinguished Authors Guild 6th Annual Literary Award Show and VIP Gala

The Distinguished Authors Guild is honoring the past and awarding the future. We pay homage to authors who have paved the way in the literary world, while celebrating those in search of excellence. D.A.G. is eager to celebrate the hard work of authors.

VIP ticketholders will enjoy a champagne gala while mingling with the nominees. Learn their backstory and what inspired them to write when they interview with BHC Media Group. Take pictures on the red carpet to memorialize the night. VIP patrons will also receive a complimentary D.A.G. bag valued at $55.

All ticketholders will groove to the sounds of Luther Vandross performed by Entertainer, Joseph George. Joseph is a very intense Gospel and R&B singer who has shared the stage with such artists as Luther Vandross, Gladys Knight, Patti Labelle, Anita Baker, Nelly, Missy Elliot, Maxwell and many, many more. He has also been a two-time guest of The Oprah Winfrey Show, a guest on The X Factor and has toured the country with The Voice 6 Gospel Play.

You get to vibe to the sounds of Karen Dade. Her melodic voice will soothe you as you enjoy the evening festivities. Karen is an entrepreneur, a singer and songwriter, a preacher, teacher, actress, comedian, and health guru. In addition to these many attributes, she is a 2021 D.A.G. award winning author for her book Behind The Collar. She has made her debut in stage plays, churches, comedy clubs, and more.

There's something for our Tyrese Gibson fans. Performing his hits is Gregory Bowyer, a native of Gary, Indiana. Gregory has performed in Las Vegas, NV impersonating Tyrese and wowing the crowds. His authentic voice and look will have you on the edge of your seat.

Share in the excitement as nominees learn if they have an award-winning book. Winners are presented with a D.A.G. Award for their outstanding writing. This gold affair is a night of honor and accolades. Come out to support and celebrate our literary geniuses.

$100 tickets are for the VIP Gala from 5pm-5:30pm CST and the Literary Award Show from 6pm-9pm CST. $75 tickets are for the Literary Award Show from 6pm-9pm CST. Virtual tickets are available for those who cannot make the event for a price of $75. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales goes toward scholarships to assist creative writing students in their freshman year of college. Our Scholars need our support.

We look forward to seeing you November 7, 2025 at Theater 47 in Park Forest, IL.

*Food vendors are available. Cash and credit cards are accepted.

*No outside food or drinks are allowed.

*This is a black-tie event.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Theater 47, 350 Victory Drive, Park Forest, United States