Kenita R. Miller, Michael James Scott & More Set for ONCE ON THIS ISLAND Make-A-Wish Foundation Benefit, 1/20

Friends in Theater Company has announced the 2014 production Once on this Island. The one-night-only production will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Metro New York and Western New York and is set to be Curtis Holbrook's directorial debut with the company. Once on this Island, one of Contemporary Theatre's best-loved musicals will be presented on Monday, January 20, 2014 at 7:30pm at the Lucille Lortel Theater (121 Christopher Street New York, NY 10014).

The all-star cast includes Kenita R. Miller (Color Purple, Xanadu) as Timoune, Joe Aaron Reid (If/Then, Ghost) as Daniel, Michael James Scott (Aladin, Book of Mormon) as Agwe, and Andre Ward (Rock of Ages) as Papa Ge. Additional cast to be announced. This special event will also be choreographed by director Curtis Holbrook and is under the musical direction of Jonathan Rose. Once on this Island features lyrics and book by Lynn Ahrens and music by Stephen Flaherty.

All of the proceeds for the night will benefit the local chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a non-profit organization that has given hope, strength, and joy to children with life-threatening medical conditions since 1980. Tickets start at $45 and can be purchased through www.friendsintheater.com or calling 212-352-3101.

Friends in Theater Company endeavors to promote the talent and skills of artists while encouraging them to participate philanthropically. After production costs, every penny of the proceeds from a FITC production are donated to charity. Past beneficiary foundations have included The Make-A-Wish Foundation, The American Cancer Society and The World Trade Center Fund. Visit www.friendsintheater.com for more information.

Photo Credit: Genevieve Rafter Keddy