Hark! The Herald ‘Angels’ Sing: ‘Tis The Season For “Broadway Cares”

“Strings of street lights–even stop lights blink a bright red and green as the shoppers rush home with their treasures…” goes the unforgettable refrain of “Silver Bells”, and what more festive way to describe “Christmastime in the city” (–or anywhere for that matter?) Would that the actual task of gift shopping were that poetic and simple! Luckily, for anyone on your list who may be “Dreaming Of A ’Great-White-Way’ Christmas” (including yourself,) “Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS” has the answer! Via their on-line store, not only does this incredible foundation offer a virtual cornucopia filled with unique treasures for every lover of  the performing arts–each purchase directly goes to help a terrific cause.

“Equity Fights AIDS” was founded in 1987 by the stage performers union Actors’ Equity with the intent of providing assistance and support for those among their membership affected with HIV and AIDS in helping them combat its  devastating effects. Through the efforts of Equity theatre companies across the country, monies raised were earmarked expressly for what was initially called the “Actors Fund’s AIDS Initiative“. Shortly after, in February 1988 “Broadway Cares” was founded by members of The Producers’ Group, with the money there being awarded to AIDS service organizations nationwide–including “Equity Fights AIDS“. Then, in May 1992, the two groups merged to become “Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS“.

Sure, the disease may no longer be an automatic death sentence, but it can be a life sentence involving, at the very least,  constant vigilance. Fortunately, BC/EFA has become the major supporter of seven programs at The Actors Fund including the HIV/AIDS Initiative, the Phyllis Newman Women’s Health Initiative, the Al Hirschfeld Free Health Clinic and more. Among the programs they have initiated are “Classical Action”, which draws on the talents and generosity of the classical, opera, and jazz communities to raise revenues for AIDS services, and “Dancers Responding to AIDS” (DRA), the dance world’s ongoing response to the crisis.

Make Your Tree Truly Legendary This year With These Lovely, "Legendary" Leading Ladies-Chita, Carol & Bernadette!

 “Our retail department started in 1990 with just a couple of items,” says Retail Outreach Manager, Peter Borzotta detailing that since then, they’ve grown to have over 150 goods regularly available from their on-line store. Acknowledging that the first were red-ribbon based–including an embroidered version of the iconic emblem which remains one of their most sought after, he notes “They were one of the first things we created“. Even today the series is their strongest annual seller, largely from October through December, in preparation for World AIDS Day on December 1^st . “The Broadway items are huge sellers year round,” Borzotta also advises, “I think people who don’t live here or get to New York once a year love those in particular, and we ship them all over the world.”

Now "The Great White Way" Can Be Anywhere Thanks To The Wonderful Gifts & Goods From "Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS" On-Line Store (Here, "Yours Humbly" Demonstrates His "Broadway State Of Mind" In Their Classic, 2011 Tee)

 The idea to create show-themed materials got started back in 1998 with a little inspiration from Bloomingdales Department Store. “They wanted to do a Broadway line of merchandise and they wanted us to benefit from it,” he explains, “so they devised four things–a globe, a sweat shirt, a Tee and beach towel”.  For three years, the store sold these during the holidays with the proceeds going to BC/EFA. Once  the promotion ran its course, customers who were by then used to finding such one-of-a-kind  wares began contacting their offices directly with questions regarding where and when they might again become available. “I thought why don’t we try to do our own line comparable to what Bloomingdale’s did, but alternate products every year?” Peter relates. Thus, in 2002  the official on-line version of the store itself was established.

Perfect For The Holidays: "Broadway Cares' Distinctive, One-Of-A-Kind, "Fun-Of-A-Kind" Snow Globe!

“We do a whole new line every Fall, and every month we try to introduce something original,” affirms the Manager, referring to how they regularly update select items and staff picks, resulting in terrific savings! Where else can one find such a remarkable assortment of red-ribbon commemorative gifts? Also among the myriad of “Must-haves” are books, CD’s, tote bags, jewelry, clothing, opening-night mementos, gift-baskets, food and flower arraignments–whether for  winter-time celebrations or whenever! There’s even specific lines of gifts and objects relating to their “Classical Action” division; while  for the dancer or dance enthusiast, some terrific products designed especially to benefit DRA. All can be shipped anywhere, and best yet, every purchase serves and encourages  BC/EFA’s mission in the important work they do.

 When it comes to what gets produced, Borzotta himself gets the final word, yet he admits “I have several people I run things by though; for instance, if its clothing, I usually pace around the office and say, ’is this in style? Would this jacket appeal to both sexes? So I like to get people‘s opinions too.” Furthermore, Peter observes that the business handling all the silk screen printing for the “Broadway Cares” T-shirts, is a company situated in Ohio called ‘Night Sweats and T-Cells’”. “Its run by people who are actually living with HIV and AIDS,” he reveals, demonstrating one of several  examples of how this association puts its constructive philosophy into action.

Show Your Love Of Great Theater Everywhere You Go In This Comfortable-But-Classic, "Logo-inclusive" BC/EFC Tee

Through it all, Borzotta maintains that their trademark “Snow Globe” displaying all the show logos representing a current season, also remains hugely popular. Now something of a tradition, he recounts that a friend of his who happened to be a set designer fashioned the first globe that the fundraisers themselves undertook to market “–and they just flew out of here!” he smiles. Since then, they invite a different set designer every year to perform the same task.  So too, this ‘logo-inclusive’ motif has proven to be such a winner, a whole line of similarly emblazoned articles is now available exclusively in the ’Broadway Cares” collection.

New This Season, Bernadette Peters Brings All Her Very Special "Color & Light" To Your Holiday Decor

  Special to BC/EFA for the holiday season there’s even the “Broadway Legends” ornament collection honoring some of the most celebrated leading ladies of the Musical theater. In fact, among all the pieces he’s helped develop over the years, Peter confesses that these definitely rank among his own personal favourites. “We started with Angela Landsbury in ‘Mame’,” he states; “I just kept seeing that gold gown that she wore in that opening number and I thought it would be a beautiful, glittery ornament.” His instincts couldn’t have been better–in less than a season she completely sold out. Then another devoted to Chita Rivera quickly followed, while last year Carol Channing, stunningly attired from “Hello Dolly” was immortalized in the same way. Currently for this season, none other than ‘Bernadette Peters’, vibrantly dressed as “Dot“, her character from the hit “Sunday In The Park With George” can be found.  All continue to be highly prized. “We even have people e-mailing in August asking ‘who’s the next ’legend’?” he divulges. With these lovely figurines  placed center stage on its branches, rest assured the one topping your tree won’t be the only “Star“ grabbing the spotlight! They’ve even toyed with thoughts of including some of  Broadway’s most legendary leading men in the future, so might the likes of Nathan Lane, Joel Grey or Robert Preston also be taking their bows on a tinsel-laden bough anytime soon? “You never know what’s coming next year!” their potential planner laughs.

'Silent Night'? Not With All These Amazing Voices! Each CD Makes A Wonderful Addition To Any Holiday Music Lover's Collection--Every One!

  Yet another way to ‘make the season bright’ is the “Carols For A Cure” CD series. An annual holiday favorite the last thirteen years, Broadway casts from some of the biggest hits each season, have come together to provide  their renditions of Yule-tide melodies both familiar and original. Likewise, this year’s edition comprises a two-disc set and features a passel of ’merry little showstoppers’ performed by the companies of “Anything Goes“, “Billy Elliot“, “Memphis”, “Mamma Mia”, Daniel Radcliffe and the troupe from “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”,  and those  ‘Heavenly voices’ from “Sister Act“, along with many others. All the previous editions are available as well, and make  magnificent additions to anyone’s holiday music library.

Whether shopping for ‘a cause’ or shopping for ’the cure’–via the web or otherwise, who knew it could be so fun? Now patrons from literally all over can put a little “Broadway Magic” into their holidays and throughout the entire year by visiting this truly ‘singular sensation‘ of an  on-line store.  For more information, or to order a catalogue, simply browse, or make your purchases right away, checkout:  http://www.broadwaycares.org/store

Still Showing Us The Way: It Takes Incredible People To Make An Organization So Incredible, And Here They Are--The Staff Of "Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS"

Merchandise Photos Courtesy DiMicco/Longcore NYC ; Special Thanks To Peter Borzotta and the staff of “Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS”, and to Corey Chambers and Lance Perkins for  their kind assistance in making this story possible. Extra Special Thanks To Jesse Archer For Providing The Inspiration For It As Well, By Continuing To Call Attention To This Awesome Organization.  Greetings Of The Season, One And All!

Show-stopper: Carol Channing Comes “Back Where She Belongs” On Stage–In Anaheim!

Every story-teller knows the importance of finding the core–or ‘spine’ of the tale they’re attempting to relate. This is the same whether they be writers, actors, singers, comedians or any other kind of artist. To clarify, the “Spine” being referred to is the purpose or motivating force to a story, character, or work that defines it, gives it depth, and drives it forward. On Saturday evening, April 16, the town of Anaheim CA, got a lesson in how a true Icon of the stage finds that ‘spine“ or determination for the latter half of their life, and makes it work for the good of everyone. That night, “Theater Hall Of Fame” Inductee Carol Channing paid a special visit to the city’s Heritage Forum for “Back Where You Belong” a one night only benefit concert in celebration of this awesome lady’s 90^th Birthday.

Defying Gravity With Samantha Bell Of The Anaheim Ballet

Produced and Directed by David Green, the man once called “The Johnny Appleseed of Young Talent” for his ability to nurture aspiring artists and provide them with the training needed to succeed in a theatrical career, the program featured “The Kids Next Door”–a song and dance troupe of dynamic young performers from Southern California’s “Musical Theater University“ (www.musicaltheatreuniversity.com). In addition, several members of the Anaheim Ballet also danced, during which Ballerina Samantha Bell practically defied the laws of physics with an astonishing piece in which she managed a quick triple time step–En Pointe (–And Honest! Hand to God! She pulled it off!)

 The theme of the concert paid homage to “Matinee Idols” of stage and screen. Just a few of the numbers presented were “Movies Were Movies“ from Jerry Herman‘s “Mack And Mable“, which saw the cast acting out a Charlie Chaplin-esque silent film; “The Little Mermaid‘s “ Academy Award winning “Under The Sea“,   and “You Can‘t Stop The Beat“ from “Hairspray“. “Star-To Be” Soloists, Jim Mulligan belted out a vibrant version of “Out There”, from Disney’s animated “Hunchback Of Notre Dame” while Kendall Mauvezin similarly electrified the crowd with a sultry rendition of Kander and Ebb’s “Maybe This Time”.

You Cant Stop" Those Dynamic "Kids Next Door From "Musical Theatre University"

Among the Special Guests of the evening were several outstanding members of “The Great White Way‘s” professional community who highlighted and encouraged the work these amazing kids undertook. Among them were Rex Smith–star of both the revival and screen adaptation of “The Pirates Of Penzance”, and Tony Award-nominated Jonelle Allen, herself well-known from the original casts of “Hair“, “George M” and the rock musical, “Two Gentlemen Of Verona”. Also on hand were two alumni from “The Musical Theater University”–Kamilah Marshall, who has gone on to play in “Rent” and the original cast of “Hairspray”, as well as Krysta Rodriguez who recently created the part of ‘Wednesday’ in “The Addams Family”. (In fact, here Rodriguez delighted audience members by singing “Pulled”–her number from that show.)

"The Addams Familys" Krysta Rodriguez & Your Humble Writer

Linda & Howard Knohl Of The APAC Foundation Say "Hello, Carol"!

Proceeds from this event went to “The Anaheim Performing Arts Center Foundation”, “The Dr. Carol Channing & Harry Kullijian Foundation For The Arts” and “Musical Theater University“.   According to Linda Knohl, President of the APACF, “The three organizations that produced ‘Back Where You Belong’ embody all that should be right in America. We continue to work tirelessly to improve quality of life by making the arts available to all of society.” 

  Miss Channing’s appearance occurred in the second act where she and husband Harry Kullijian took to the stage explaining something about the work of their particular organization while stressing each one’s commitment to importance of restoring arts –of all kinds–back into local school curriculums.   Told as only the woman herself could, she then went seamlessly right into her final act one soliloquy from “Hello Dolly”–the show that has arguably brought her the most fame. This is where Dolly Levi, speaking directly to her late husband Ephraim, asks him to ’give her away’ and allow her to ’rejoin the human race’.” 

Miss Carol Channing And Mr. Harry Kullijian

Ironically reported to be the very last addition to this now-historic musical before the script was completed, the actress further explained how it was only after she understood and addressed this particular aspect–or ’spine’– of her character that she was at last able to fully realize who the woman, Dolly, would be. This was directly followed (as “Dolly” does in the show,) by the classic “Before The Parade Passes By”.  There are few genuine “some day we’ll get to tell our grandchildren about this’ moments in life, but this was certainly one of them! The legend, in person, reciting the most legendary moment of her most legendary role…the impact was spectacular. 

 How wonderfully fitting too that, given the message she and Mr. Kullijian are trying to convey was put directly into action by providing both a reason and support for the enthusiastic and dazzlingly talented young people who entertained in such a blue-ribbon showcase. What better way to drive the point home that education in the arts really does give every student that ’spine‘ they need to be informed and insightful individuals!

"Under The Sea"?! ON STAGE Is Where This talented Crew Belong!

More importantly, There are few gems more precious than a well-rounded education, and though for many years she may have told us “Diamonds’ are a girls best friend“, Channing and Kullijian are fast proving themselves to be a student’s best friend through the important work of their foundation. “Wow-oh-wow, fellas–look at the ol’ girl now” indeed! For more information, check out: www.channingarts.com

"Lance Magazine" Publisher, Lance Perkins & The Lady Herself

Special Thanks to Lance Perkins, Publisher of “Lance Magazine”  (www.lancemag.com) For his gracious assistance with photos and Linda Knohl of The Anaheim Performing Arts Center foundation, Joel Aragon, General Manager of The Heritage Forum Theatre, and to Mr. Harry Kullijian and Miss Carol Channing For making this story possible.