Alpha Psi Omega gives back in annual show
By Esther Folaranmi
In the spirit of the holiday, Alpha Psi Omega (APO) has decided to dedicate its second annual benefit fundraiser show, Thankful, to giving back to others.
“[The theme stems from the desire] to make a warm and welcoming environment during the holiday season, giving thanks and love,” said Frank Confalone, director of the cabaret.
APO is a theater honors fraternity. Because of its roots in the arts, the fraternity felt inspired to give to a charity in the theater community. The fraternity hopes to support the Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS (BCEFA) organization through the proceeds of Thankful.
Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is a non-profit organization that “draws upon the talent of the American theater community in order to fundraise for AIDS patients and their families,” said Laura Wilson, APO’s public relations chair.
Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS supports several organizations, including the HIV/AIDS Initiative and The Phyllis Newman Woman’s Health Initiative.
The event will showcase the members of APO performing a variety of musical numbers. The songs, playing off the theme of the fundraiser Thankful, will feature the ideas of gratitude and thanks. In addition to enjoying the talented entertainment for the event, Frank Confalone has revealed that “the audience will be able to participate in a raffle to win fun Broadway and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS merchandise.”
The audience will be getting more than material prizes; they can attend knowing that the contributions they make will go a long way in aiding an important cause.
APO, recognizing the importance of giving from the heart, has not included a set entry fee. Instead, the fraternity is asking the audience to contribute whatever amount they can to the cause. All the money raised will be donated to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. The show will be held on Dec. 9 at 8 p.m. in the Rider Pub, located in the Bart Luedeke Center.
