Actors' Fund Celebrates 125 Years with Upcoming Events

After 125 years of working behind the scenes to support the performing arts and entertainment community, The Actors Fund will take center stage. 

"For more than a century, The Fund has been a national safety net for entertainment professionals – from writers and stagehands to musicians and dancers, providing unparalleled programs and assistance to this unique community," state press materials.

"With the glitz and glamour surrounding artists and entertainers today, many people don't realize the vast majority of the community is barely getting by," said Brian Stokes Mitchell, President of The Actors Fund.  "The Actors Fund is who we can all turn to when we need support."

While Actors Fund Day on April 30th celebrates the organization's mission into the future, The Fund is also announcing the release of a 125th Anniversary commemorative book later this year which reflects The Fund's history.  This collection captures more than a century of photos, documents, stories and personal anecdotes from The Fund events, programs and people.

The Actors Fund will also present a series of celebrations in honor of the Anniversary.  Each of these celebrations, which include special events, performances and tributes across the country, will raise funds and awareness to help the Actors Fund – and the artists they support – in the years to come.

"The Actors Fund addresses the human services needs of everyone in the industry, everywhere in the country," said Joseph Benincasa, "We want this anniversary year to raise awareness of our programs and services."

The series of celebrations that comprise the Actors Fund 125th Anniversary Year features more than 20 Special Performances of Broadway shows as well as a year full of special events.

Highlights include:

February 18, New York, The Little Dog Laughed, Special Performance
March 25, New York, A Chorus Line, Special Performance
April 30, New York, People Magazine Celebrates 125 Years of The Actors Fund, Annual Gala
March 5, Chicago, Working Benefit Concert
June 4, New York, 92nd Street Y: The Life of An Actor Panel Discussion
June 10, Los Angeles, 11th Annual TONY Awards Party, Special Event
June 11 – 28, National (Online), Auction of 1000 Stars, Online Auction
October 16, New York, "Brian Stokes Mitchell In Concert"

The Actors Fund is a nationwide human services organization that helps all professionals - both performers and those behind the scenes - in performing arts and entertainment.  Founded in 1882, The Fund serves those in film, theatre, television, music, opera, and dance with a broad spectrum of programs including comprehensive social services, health services, supportive and affordable housing, emergency financial assistance, employment and training services, and skilled nursing and assisted living care.  Administered from offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, The Actors Fund is a safety net, providing programs and services for those who are in need, crisis, or transition. 

Please visit The Actors Fund website at www.actorsfund.org for more information.

Photo of Brian Stokes Mitchell by Walter McBride/Retna Ltd.