CHICAGO — Each year, Chicago Academy for the Arts students produce and perform in a variety show to support HIV/AIDS research and organizations. The 20th Annual AIDS Benefit takes place Sept. 23rd and 24th at The Academy, 1010 W. Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60642.
Students from each art department ( Dance, Media Arts, Music, Musical Theatre, Theatre, and Visual Arts ) will present new work, under the direction of student leadership. The student team takes initiative in scheduling auditions, curating submissions, setting up production, communicating the message, and collaborating with a local HIV/AIDS organization. This year all proceeds will go to The AIDS Foundation of Chicago.
Nineteen years ago, Academy Musical Theatre Department alumni, and hit songwriter Justin Tranter ( Justin Bieber's "Sorry," Fall Out Boy's "Centuries" ) decided to launch an entirely student-run variety show that could support HIV/AIDS awareness and advocacy. In subsequent years, Academy students have raised tens of thousands of dollars for AIDS research, support, care, and organizations. The AIDS Benefit has become a staple of the Academy community, highlighting the unique, personal responsibility Academy students feel towards creating great art, and its potential for positive impact.
Tickets are available at chicagoacademyforthearts.org . Additional donations to The AIDS Foundation of Chicago may also be contributed. Join The Academy in making the 20th AIDS Benefit its most successful to date.
About the Chicago Academy for the Arts
Established in 1981, the Chicago Academy for the Arts is a nationally recognized, internationally influential independent high school acclaimed for its successful academic model and pre-professional arts training. Designated a National School of Distinction by the John F. Kennedy Center, The Academy offers a rich, interwoven, and stimulating curriculum comprised of rigorous courses, workshops, and practicums that encourage complex creation and problem solving through both collaboration and self-motivated learning. Students undertake a rigorous academic high school schedule as well as first-class artistic training in one of six courses of study: Dance, Media Arts, Music, Musical Theatre, Theatre, and Visual Arts. The Chicago Academy for the Arts transforms emerging artists through a curriculum and culture which connect intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity to impart skills to lead and collaborate across diverse communities. For more information about The Academy, visit www.chicagoacademyforthearts.org .