SPRING 1999 VOL.4, NO.2

Special Performances: An Actors' Fund Tradition
Standing Ovations from Coast to Coast

The sultry Nicole Kidman in her stimulating Special Performance of THE BLUE ROOM.

Special Performances, a 72-year-old Actors' Fund tradition, are among the most thrilling theatrical experiences imaginable. The excitement of these performances often surpasses Opening Nights, with a feeling that is felt on both sides of the curtain. Across the country, Broadway companies in New York City and on tour generously donate their time and talent by adding these very special shows to their already rigorous schedules. A galaxy of stars shines in the audiences. Performances often attract friends and colleagues from the entertainment community. All proceeds from ticket sales directly benefit The Actors' Fund's vital programs and services.

"It was the most thrilling, exhilarating and frightening performance of my career." --Patti LuPone

In 1882, M.B. Curtis was sensationally successful in creating the first in a long line of Jewish comic stage characters. He is credited with giving the first Actors’ Fund benefit. Photo reprinted from A History of The Actors’ Fund of America, by Louis M. Simon. Photographer: David A. Loggie

Shawn Elliot, Ron Rifkin and Donna Murphy are all smiles backstage at CABARET.

Over the past five years, Special Performances have grossed $4,500,000, with 132,648 enthusiastic theatergoers enjoying these unforgettable performances from coast to coast. In New York City, THE LION KING set the record for the highest grossing Broadway show in Special Performance history at $121,600. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA in Tempe, Arizona still holds the record for the all-time highest grossing Special Performance at $144,435 in 1994. This tradition of caring began with the first performance to benefit The Fund in 1882. Today's Special Performances began in 1927 with the invaluable support of Actors' Equity and the League of New York Theaters.

Zoë Wanamaker after her wonderful Special Performance of ELECTRA.

Michael Cumpsty and Myra Lucretia Taylor celebrate a dazzling Special Performance of ELECTRA.

Fund President Tom Dillon congratulates Pat Carroll following her Special Performance of ELECTRA.

Kathleen Chalfant, star of WIT, and Fund Trustee Celeste Holm, praised the cast of SIDE MAN.

Trustee Bebe Neuwirth and Alan Cumming after a triumphant performance of CABARET.

The Fund is grateful to the producers, theatre operators and members of Actors' Equity Association, Associated Musicians of Greater New York, Local 802 AFM, Association of Theatrical Press Agents and Managers, the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers and the United Scenic Artists Union for waiving their compensation. In addition, the thousands of theatergoers who purchase tickets to these performances each year deserve a round of applause.

"We offer our heartfelt appreciation to everyone backstage, on the boards, in the pit and in front of the house," says Joseph Benincasa, The Fund's Executive Director, "Special Performances provide The Fund with an essential source of income and inspiration. Bravo!"

Fund Executive Director Joseph Benincasa with FOOTLOOSE stars Jennifer Laura Thompson and Tom Plotkin following their magnificent Special Performance.

The talented company of SIDE MAN gave a sensational Special Performance.

The incomparable Kit Kat Girls "Willkommen" the audience to the Special Performance of CABARET.

What do these performances mean to entertainment professionals? Patti LuPone said, "It was the most thrilling, exhilarating, and frightening performance of my career." Donna Murphy feels that a "Special Performance always takes on a heightened sense of importance. I am struck with an amazing sense of community and the pride, responsibility and joy of human connection that one feels in being a part of it." In an open letter to THE LION KING Company, James Stovall expresses his personal understanding of the true meaning of volunteering for one more performance. "With your schedule, any sacrifice outside of that is a miracle. Thank you for giving back to an organization that assists hundreds of thousands of 'our own' by providing real care, real love, real support and not just lip service. The Actors' Fund is there for you whenever you might need them."

Valerie Harper with her husband and ALL UNDER HEAVEN producer, Tony Cicciotti, rejoice after their terrific Special Performance.

From January through March 1999, incredible Special Performances included CABARET, ALL UNDER HEAVEN, SIDE MAN, FOOTLOOSE, THE BLUE ROOM, and ELECTRA in New York City and THE LAST SESSION in Los Angeles. Upcoming Special Performances for June include FOSSE and THE LION KING. For more information, to purchase tickets or to receive a schedule of upcoming events, please call (212) 221-7300 ext. 133 or (800) 386-3849 ext. 133.

Everybody cut FOOTLOOSE at the fabulous Special Performance.

In This Issue:

Nothing Like A Dame '99 -- A Smash Hit!

The Actors' Fund Views

Cabarets for a Cause

Broadway Love Songs Dedicated to Bran Pace

Arts Organizations Endorse Health Insurance Initiative

Tony Awards Celebration in L.A.

Cable Positive Assistance Program is Launched

Special Performances