Actor's Fund to Present WORKING Benefit in Chicago March 5

On Monday, March 5, The Actors Fund will present a one-night-only benefit concert of Working, a unique and extraordinary musical based on the classic Studs Terkel book. The concert production, which benefits The Actors Fund, the national aid organization for everyone who works in performing arts and entertainment, and Chicago's Season of Concern, begins at 7:30 pm at The Harris Center for Music and Dance at 205 E. Randolph Drive in Chicago.

Working paints a vivid portrait of the men and women the world often takes for granted. It is a highly original look at the American landscape that is simply impossible to forget. The show, based on the book by Studs Terkel and adapted by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked) and Nina Faso, features songs by Craig Carnelia, Micki Grant, Mary Rodgers and Susan Birkenhead, Stephen Schwartz and James Taylor. The show originally opened on Broadway in 1978 with a cast that included the young Patti LuPone, Joe Mantegna and Bob Gunton.

Working continues The Actors Fund tradition of one-night only benefit concerts that feature a who's who of the entertainment industry. Just a few of the past participants include Bernadette Peters, David Hyde Pierce, Bebe Neuwirth, Jennifer Hudson, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Audra McDonald, Angela Lansbury, Calista Flockhart, Josh Groban and Peter Gallagher. Tickets are available at The Harris Theater box office in Millennium Park or can be ordered by phone at 312.334.7777. Ticket prices range from $50 - $500. This production of Working is one in a series of celebrations that are being held around the country to celebrate the 125th anniversary of The Actors Fund. For more information on other anniversary events and commemorations visit The Actors Fund website at www.actorsfund.org.

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. The Actors Fund has operated a Chicago office for over 25 years, providing direct care and financial assistance focused on the needs of entertainment professionals in the Midwest.