A Day of Cabaret assembles entertainer powerhouse
By PHYLLIS HODGES
Enjoy variety shows? Rarely do you see such a dynamite line up of performers in one show. But that’s what is in store for you at A Day of Cabaret, a day of music and comedy on Sunday, April 30, at the Sun City Center Community Hall (South Campus), 1910 Pebble Beach Blvd. S.
BILL HODGES PHOTO
Community Hall capacity was reached for the 2016 Day of Cabaret. Committee Chair Diane Blenke says they expect response to be strong again this year. Ticket sales begin April 3 at the Community Association Atrium ticket kiosk.
All the performers have something in common. They love to entertain, whether it is song, comedy or bringing together the harmonious sound of musical instruments. On the agenda are six singers, three comedians, and one band — and they are all donating their time and talent to this fundraiser for four local food banks. Doors open at 1 p.m.; the show begins at 2 p.m.
Popular area singers who will be performing are Gary Garbelman, Bill Lindsey (Elvis Presley tribute), Troy Coman, Barbara Van Eycken, Micki & Glenn Groper and Hilde Klein. Ed Brown and Jeanne Nash (aka George Burns and Gracie Allen) will be on hand with their chuckle-provoking comedy, as will be John Cortese with his brand of humor, and the Front Porch Pickers with their upbeat selections designed to delight.
The committee is pleased to have Gary Mull, a newcomer to SCC, serve as master of ceremonies. Mull is a seasoned professional speaker and author, internationally known for the energy and warmth of his presentations.
This is the second major fundraiser sponsored by SCC’s faith community, comprised of nine local congregations. Last year’s event was an overwhelming success with an overflow house of nearly 900. Committee Chair Diane Blenke of Prince of Peace Catholic Church, said she is excited about chairing the committee this year, especially after the outpouring of support last year, which netted $11,000 and over 1,000 pounds of food. She anticipates strong support again this year for this fun afternoon of entertainment.
Advance ticket sales begin April 3 at the Community Association Atrium kiosk for $10 (Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9 a.m. to noon). Tickets are also available at the sponsoring congregations: Beth Israel Jewish Congregation, Prince of Peace Catholic Church, Redeemer Lutheran Church, St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, St. John the Divine Church, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, United Methodist Church of SCC, South Shore United Community Church and Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.
At the door, the ticket price will be $12 each. All attendees are requested to bring a nonperishable food item.
The congregation members of the SCC faith community recognize that this southern area of Hillsborough County has a high poverty rate—said to be the highest in the county. They view this event as an opportunity to work together to help replenish the stores of area food pantries that typically run low after the donation rush experienced during holidays later in the year. Food bank recipients for proceeds from A Day of Cabaret are: Calvary Lutheran’s Angel Attic, the Lord’s Lighthouse, Beth-El Food Pantry and Guadalupe Food Pantry.
For more information, e-mail diane@popcc.org.
