by Neena Strichart
We all know that with the way the economy has been behaving, or misbehaving, for so long, many of our local nonprofits and charities are finding quite a dip in monetary donations and even a decline in volunteer hours that had been so generously given in the past.
Folks have been struggling to make their own ends meet, and giving to a charity in some cases has been considered a budgeted luxury.
Tough times call for creative measures, and it looks as if Long Beach Playhouse has come up with a winner.
I recently received a press release telling of an upcoming event intended to help procure a financial boost to what is, for some, their favorite local theatrical venue. When I shared the creative fundraising concept with my dear hubby Steve, he quickly replied, “I wouldn’t miss it.” Now, for a guy who usually shies away from social soirees to volunteer to attend, it must be a winner. We’ll be sharing more about the event with you over the next few weeks. However, please read the full press release below, get out your checkbooks and plan to see us there.
Politicians, community leaders and actors will again gather at the offices of Keesal, Young and Logan to talk about Long Beach politics, culture and newsmakers, this time on Wednesday, June 5 at 5:30pm. Tongues firmly in cheek, these local political players promise to reveal the real truth about all that is happening in town.
This year’s production, A Return to the Long Beach Home Companion, will be presented in the style of an old-timey radio show. The show is written by Gazette Executive Editor Harry Saltsgaver and performed by the Long Beach Political Players, which include George Deukmejian, Evan Anderson Braude, Justin Rudd, Blair Cohn, Randy Gordon, Doris Topsy-Elvord, Gigi Fusco Meese, Gerrie Schipske, Mike DuRee, Laura Doud and Mitchell Nunn. Straight Talk host Art Levine will provide sound effects.
In addition to the radio show, there will be a buffet and cocktails. There will be raffles for gift cards and services from local businesses.
The event is a fundraiser for the Playhouse. Tickets, which are $85 each, are limited. Call the Playhouse box office at (562) 494-1014 ext. 1.
All proceeds support the productions and programs of the Long Beach Playhouse, including plays of all types, collaborative productions, comedy nights, guest lecturers, regionally recognized youth- and adult-education programs and the New Works Festival.
