Season of Concern's 2018 annual benefit titled Cabaret for Care came to the Goodman Theatre on April 9. The evening had donors enjoying entertainment for around 90 minutes along with a special VIP reception beforehand.
Host E. Faye Butler and Honey West joked together, sang a duet of "Laughing Matters," and then took turns introducing performers.
The recipient of three Joseph Jefferson Awards, Mark D. Kaplan did a version of "Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart" and encouraged raffle ticket buying from the spectators. Raffle prizes included tickets to see a variety of musicals, theater, and dance shows ranging from $200-$1,000 in value.
The Larry Sloan Awards were divided into three categories. The Legacy Award was presented to Eugene Dizon for his exceptional work producing five Season of Carols albums over the years. The Heritage Award went to Lookingglass Theatre and the Advocate Award went to the BJ Jones from Northlight.
Nancy Voigts belted Petula Clark's "Downtown" and Sydney Charles channeled Andra Day's "Rise Up." Rising young talent Ariana Burks sang a song about flying and Christine Bunuan described her experience at Starbucks with lyrics about a latte boy. Colette Todd closed out the singing portion of the evening and was recognized for her dual Jeff nominations for two different shows in the same night.
Music director Mark Elliott provided the piano accompaniment and things ran smoothly thanks to stage director Steve Scott.
Media sponsors included Windy City Times and Footlights.com .
Season of Concern was formed back in 1987 and over 30 years later has raised more than $3 million. The organization is the Chicagoland theater community's fundraising effort to support those who fight against AIDS and health related emergences.
For more information about donating, visit SeasonofConcern.org or call 312-332-0518 .
