Alan Alda and Joy Behar Give Benefit Performance 10/20

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In case you haven't yet heard the news, Bay Street Theatre has announced a major fundraising campaign aimed at righting its financial ship, which has been hit hard by the economic recession. But the first potential life preserver has been cast, by an anonymous donor who has put forth a $250,000 challenge grant. The grant, along with the support of artists such as Joy Behar, Alan Alda, and Lewis Black have set the fundraising campaign in full motion.

Alan Alda and Joy Behar will appear in the first of several benefit performances that are being thrown on Bay Street's behalf. This show, titled Two Great Friends... A Night of Comedy & Conversation will take place on Saturday, October 10th at 8pm and promises to have audience members both amused and amazed by their life stories.

To most, these two legends need little introduction. Ms. Behar is perhaps known best for her daily appearance on "The View", though her life's work has spanned the gamut from stand-up comedienne to her latest venture, "The Joy Behar Show" which premiers on CNN's sister network, HLN. Mr. Alda skyrocketed to fame on "M*A*S*H," for which he also served as director of over thirty episodes and writer of nineteen. He has been nominated for 33 Emmy Awards, and taken home six, including one for his role on "West Wing". He hosted "Scientific American Frontiers" on PBS and has appeared on Broadway and in films such as Crimes and Misdemeanors, The Four Seasons, and Sweet Liberty to name but a few. Both artists will take their turn individually on the Bay Street stage, and then come together for a casual interviewing of one another. A Q&A with the audience may also take place if time permits.

Tickets are $100 or for $150, purchasers will be able to join in a reception with the stars after seeing the show. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Bay Street Box Office at 631-725-9500, open Wednesday through Sundays, 11am-6pm.

The fundraising campaign will continue throughout the fall and updated theatre events will be posted when scheduled. Donations of any size can be made by visiting www.baystreet.org. Donations may also be sent by check payable to Bay Street Theatre, PO Box 810, Sag Harbor, NY 11963, or by visiting them on the Long Wharf in Sag Harbor, New York. All donations will help Bay Street Theatre reap the full benefit of the generous challenge grant.

Bay Street Theatre is a not-for-profit institution, dedicated to presenting new, classic and contemporary works of the highest quality, which challenge as well as entertain, speak to the diversity of the community and champion the human spirit. Bay Street's commitment extends to educational programs for all ages to foster the continued value of theatre as a vital art form for future generations.