Divas Cabaret Competition Set for Raleigh Little Theatre, 11/10

With over $150,000 raised to date, Divas! returns this year as the most profitable fundraiser for Raleigh Little Theatre. The Divas show is a mix of singing, dancing, fun, glam and, of course, Diva-esque attitudes. The show consists of performances of cabaret and show tunes by 11 entrants, with the performer who raises the most money winning the coveted title of Diva 2012. This year, six previous Divas! winners will emcee together.

The performers for the event are 12 of the Triangle’s finest actors and actresses who have spent the last few weeks campaigning among friends and co-workers to raise the most money for the theatre, with the ultimate goal to win Divas! 2012. Don’t let the name fool you; both men and women compete for the title.

Alison Lawrence, director of the Divas! fundraiser, says she is most excited to see the progress of the performers. “As I’ve watched the rehearsals,” Lawrence said, “I’m really seeing a lot of growth.” About half of the performers have never done an event like this before. They are used to scripted performances, and the acts on the Divas! stage will not be in character. “This is them,” said Lawrence.

A new twist this year is that each of the Divas! contestants have used online content in their campaigns. Each has created a video about why local theatre fans should support their candidacy. In all, these videos have received over 1,000 views on Raleigh Little Theatre’s You Tube channel. Candidates also have their own individual Razoo pages, and have raised over $8,000 online to date, a new high in advance of the performance.

Lawrence also emphasized the importance of this event as it relates to fundraising for the theater community. “Theater is very educational,” said Lawrence. “Live theater is a vital and living part of our culture.”

Divas! 2012 will be a one night only performance November 10th. Reception (wine/beer and hors d’oeuvres) 7 p.m. Show 8 p.m. Ticket price: Adults $35. Available online HERE. Donations are tax-deductible. For more information about tickets, call the Raleigh Little Theatre Box Office at 919.821.3111.