Performance Network Announces Tony Party And Casino Night 6/13

The question many Performance Network supporters are asking these days is "do I feel lucky?" As the American Theatre Wing gears up for its 64th Annual Tony Awards ceremony at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, Ann Arbor's professional theatre announces its Tony viewing party, "Bettin' on Broadway" which will take place on Sunday, June 13th, at 7pm at Performance Network Theater. The Tony Awards ceremony is a Black-Tie only event but Performance Network's party invites its guests to dress "from slots to high roller" as they view the Tony awards while playing blackjack, poker and roulette in the Network's lobby and theatre spaces.

Artistic Director David Wolber says "It's not the oldest, established permanent floating crap-game in New York, but it will be a rip-roaring good time, as guests watch the Tonys, bet on winners and losers and play roulette, black-jack and poker. We're transforming the entire space into a casino, complete with a full bar, plentiful food and munchies, a roulette wheel, and tons of raffles and prizes."

The party starts at 7pm and will last until the final Tony award is announced. A full bar will include mixed drinks as well as wine and beer, and complimentary hors d'oeuvres and munchies will be served. Guests will play for chips, which can be turned in for raffle tickets for a variety of prizes including getaway packages, retail items, art, and gift certificates. Multiple televisions positioned around the space will broadcast the Tony awards.

Executive Director Carla Milarch said "We know that theatre lovers across Ann Arbor will be watching the Tony awards, rooting for their favorite actors, actresses and plays. Now, we're inviting them out to join The Other Theatre geeks in town, and put money down on their favorites while enjoying the camaraderie and supporting our very own professional theatre. Funds raised from the party will support The Children's Theatre Network as well as other PNT programs."

Performance Network is located at 120 East Huron, on the corner of Fourth and Huron, just one half block east of Main Street in Ann Arbor's thriving downtown dining and entertainment district.

Tickets are $75 and include $100 in gambling chips, 2 beer/wine drink tickets, and unlimited food, fun and merriment. $50 of each ticket is a tax-deductible contribution to the theatre. A 50/50 raffle with a minimum prize of $250 will also be held.

Tickets are available for purchase through the PNT box office at 734-663-0681, www.performancenetwork.org or 120 E. Huron St., Ann Arbor, 48104, 11am-6pm, Monday - Saturday.

Founded in 1981, Performance Network Theatre has grown from a fledgling company to Ann Arbor's only resident, professional theatre. The Network reaches 40,000 theatre patrons and children each year through the year-round Professional Series and The Children's Theatre Network. Performance Network also presents the Fireside Festival of New Works and a series of classes on theatre-related topics. The Network provides uncompromising artistic leadership in the region and produces works that engage, challenge and inspire audiences and artists.

Performance Network is currently celebrating its 10th season in its downtown home at 120 East Huron (Corner of Huron and Fourth). Since opening its downtown space 9 seasons ago, the company has grown into a regional leader, with a track record of winning more awards than any other theatre in the state. It has garnered national acclaim, including 3 American Theatre Critics' Association nominations and moved plays premiered in Ann Arbor to theatres nationwide, including one optioned for Broadway.

Performance Network brings joy and entertainment to 20,000 patrons each year, and its touring shows and family series light up the faces of 20,000 children. Its programs include the critically acclaimed professional series, the Fireside Festival of New Works featuring scripts in development, classes and workshops for children and teens and a late night performance series for developing artists.