'Scandal's' Norm Lewis performs during Goodman Theatre gala

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Goodman Theatre in Chicago held its annual gala Saturday evening to raise money for education and community engagement programs.

And a familiar face from ABC's hit series "Scandal" helped entertain the crowd - Norm Lewis who plays Sen. Edison Davis on the show.

Lewis has been around Broadway more than the small screen for most of his career. He doesn't sing on "Scandal" but he's acting with an extraordinary group of people.

"I think what is wonderful about this cast is that most of the people in the show are from theatre," Lewis said during a sit-down interview with ABC7. "And I think there is a sense of togetherness and family and knowing what you need to do to portray these characters."

"Scandal" brought Lewis a new audience and some great on camera scenes this season.

Fans see him stand up to the evil Command.

"I did stand up to Papa Pope and I'm glad to be alive," Lewis said.

Although he has a huge body of work in theater and was the first African American to perform Phantom on Broadway, Lewis has never been on the Chicago stage.

"I just know they have amazing productions and I just want to be in one of them," Lewis said.

One never knows. Lewis could get a call next season.

"You never know in Shondaland. You just never know," Lewis said. "Anytime Shonda calls, I'm ready."