On Feb. 13, Artists Giving Back presented "Songs of Healing: A Benefit for Donica Lynn" at Mary's Attic. The event brought together a varied sampling of some of Chicago's best and well-known theatrical actors, singers and performers to celebrate Lynn and raise money for her recent cancer treatments.
Lynn, a Jeff award winner for her role in Porchlight Theater's mounting of Dreamgirls, has been battling brain cancer for more than four years. Lynn's credits also include Smokey Joe's Cafe; Caroline, or Change; Confessions of a P.I.M.P.; and others.
With Christopher Pazdernick ( artistic director of The Refuge Theater ) hosting, the show featured members of the cast from Porchlight Theater's Dreamgirls as well as many friends in the community.
Among the many highlights of the show was a reading of "What About Love" from The Color Purple, performed by Michael Ferraro and Caleb Blaze; a passionate take on "River in the Rain" from Big River, by Jared Grant; a spirited "Believe" from The Wiz, performed by Reneisha Jenkins; and a full cast performance of "Total Praise" and "Family" ( which featured a solo by Matthew Hunter ) from Dreamgirls.
There were also songs featured that were not originally written for theater. Among those were Molly Callinan's sincere reading of Sia's "Unstoppable," an emotional version of Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come" by Eric Lewis, a moving "You'll Never Walk Alone" by Billy Dawson, a light and heartfelt take on Carole King's "You've Got A Friend" by Leah and Doug Pawlik, and a joyful version of Katy Perry's "Unconditionally" by Lynn's 11-year-old daughter, Sidra.
At the close of the show, Lynn—surrounded by the cast—was reduced to tears, and thanked attendees for the outpouring of love and support. As someone who had held annual cancer benefits for years, the night held special significance since obviously this event was for her. She profusely thanked everyone who attended and participated, and closed out the night with her powerful and moving version of "Amazing Grace."
The benefit was presented by the non-profit organization Artists Giving Back, which, in the past, has presented musical theater performances for philanthropic causes. "Songs of Healing" was planned and produced by Lynn's longtime friend Jacob Leatherman as well as Artists Giving Back members Peter Ruger ( the organization's founder/artistic director ), Britain Gebhardt and Colton Schied.
The evening also included a raffle as well as gift certificates from Blown Salon and Blow Dry Bar. With Artists Giving Back matching the dollar-for-dollar amount raised, the evening brought in more than $1,000.
Contributions can be made at GoFundMe.com/DonicaLynnSurgery.
