Welcome to the WAMily: MisCast Cabaret raises funds for WAM Theatre
WAM's MisCast Cabaret fundraiser featured singers belting out tunes for characters in which they'd normally never be considered.
Shela Levante with WAM Artistic Director and Co-founder Kristen van Ginhoven
You know you’ve created a very special organization when renowned actress Jayne Atkinson flies in just to take part in your annual gala. On Thursday, July 7, the House of Cards and Madam Secretary star hosted WAM Theatre’s MisCast Cabaret fundraiser at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington. The evening featured 10 singers belting out the tunes of musical theater characters for which they’d never normally be considered. Women sang numbers almost exclusively performed by men; understudies became leading ladies; Rose from “Gypsy” was played splendidly by Tom Truss. Live accompaniment was provided by keyboardist Bob Shepherd and upright bassist Daniel Broad. Proceeds from ticket sales, virtual auction bids (which will be accepted through July 19), and other donations go toward WAM’s education and community engagement programs. Since WAM’s founding in 2010, it has donated more than $80,000 to 23 local and global organizations taking action for gender equity.
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Matteline deVries-Dilling, founder of Lite Brite Neon, one of the evening's honoree of this year's Upstate Benefit adresses the gala from the Caboose's caboose.
- Karen Pearson. Courtesy Art Omi.
Olana senior vice president and landscape curatorMark Prezorski, president Sean Sawyer, The evenings honoree Kristin Gamble and New York State Assemblymember Didi Barrett.
- Oxygen House Photo
