The past few months have been tricky for organizations, especially ones that thrive on having people in their venue. For theaters, the hit has been truly hard for both audiences and performers not only financially, but also creatively as well—without live art many feel a bit disconnected. This weekend, however, that is going to change when Quintessence Theatre Group Hosts their Virtual Miscast Cabaret Fundraiser.
Known as Philadelphia’s professional classic repertory theatre, Quintessence has decided to do something special to help raise funds, and, to do just that, the theatre group has invited artists from its tenth anniversary season to participate in The Waist-Up-Black-Tie Miscast Cabaret: A Virtual Fancy Fundraiser this Sunday, May 24, at 3 p.m.
This is the second year for the theatre group’s cabaret fundraiser, and even with social distancing in full effect, it made sense for Quintessence to stick with the colorful extravaganza to not only help fund the creative endeavors of the organization, but to also bring up the spirits of those stuck safely at home. After having to cancel performances for the rest of this season, this fundraiser is needed on all ends.
“Our tenth anniversary season has been nothing like we expected,” said Artistic Director Alexander Burns in a release. “But, we didn’t want to end the season without bringing back the popular Miscast Cabaret.”
Managing Director David Lloyd Olson also added, “we lost over $100,000 having to cancel A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Life is a Dream, and Caligula, and your contribution towards this event will help us make sure we can welcome audiences back to the Sedgwick in the future with more epic classic theatre.”
This special evening will take place through the form of a one-time-only livestream performance and will feature some favorite Quintessence regulars. Each talented trouper will have time in front of the mic and will be performing songs that flip genders. Performers include Leigha Kato, Daniel Miller, Megan McDermott, Andrew Betz, Jeffrey Carlson, Susannah Hughes, Rakeem Lawrence and Jake Loewenthal. The fundraiser will be hosted by Sean Close, and Quintessence’s Artistic Associate Lee Cortopassi, who is also at the helm of the event, will also be making an appearance and performing.
To make the event extra special at home, the theatre group also invites audiences to suit up in fancy attire and make themselves some cocktails. Just because the party part of the fundraiser won’t feel the same doesn’t mean that you can’t still dress the part and make it a good time. But speaking of parties, there will also be an after-party. Donations are asked to be at least $75, but those who donate $500 or more will receive exclusive VIP admission to the Miscast Cast After Party. However, if you’re budget is a bit tight these days, a donation of at least $1 will give someone access to the link to the general live-stream performance.
Tickets/reservations are available at QTGrep.org or by phone at 215-987-4450.
But there is good news on the horizon. Preparing to begin the company’s 11th anniversary season, Quintessence is excited to invite Philadelphians back to their home in the historic Sedgwick Theater, an Art Deco movie palace designed in 1928 by William Lee and located in the Mt. Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia.
To learn more information, visit quintessencetheatre.org
