AceShowbiz -

Singer and actress Barbra Streisand was honored for her film career at Avery Fisher Hall on Monday night, April 22. Streisand, who also remains active as songwriter, film producer and director, was given by former president Bill Clinton the 40th annual Chaplin Award from the Film Society of Lincoln Center.

"Ever since I can remember, I've been called 'bossy and opinionated'," said Streisand, who was hailed from the stage as a "true legend and hometown girl." "Well, I guess I am. Three cheers for bossy women!"

In his speech, Clinton acknowledged the Award-winning performer's success in entertainment industry. "Barbra has made that new world her life's work in song and movies, producing, directing, acting, writing, and fighting for causes and people she believed in. She has lifted a lot of clouds," he said.

Jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, Liza Minnelli and Tony Bennett paid their tribute to Streisand with their musical performances. Also taking the stage to sing their praises for her were Michael Douglas, last year's honoree Catherine Deneuve, Amy Irving, Ben Stiller, Pierce Brosnan and Kris Kristofferson.

During the evening reception, clips from Streisand's notable films were shown, including "Funny Girl", "The Way We Were", "Yentl" and "Meet the Fockers". After the honors, the crowd migrated across the Lincoln Center plaza to the David H. Koch Theater for a Grey Goose-hosted celebratory dinner, which saw the opening performance from Ann Hampton Callaway.