My Shows
News on your favorite shows, specials & more!

BELTING FOR LIFE To Return To Evanston Space With Chicago Performers

The annual benefit concert will support AIDS Foundation Chicago.

By:
BELTING FOR LIFE To Return To Evanston Space With Chicago Performers

The 11th annual BELTING FOR LIFE concert will take place on May 11, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. at Evanston SPACE in Evanston, Illinois. Produced by Jeff Award-winning director and HIV+ activist Christopher Pazdernik, the one-night event will once again partner with AIDS Foundation Chicago.

The concert will feature a lineup of 30 Chicago-based musical theatre performers, with direction by Keely Vasquez and Rachel Guth and music direction by Linda Madonia. This year’s event will be hosted by All The Divas, portrayed by Tyler Anthony Smith.

“If the rumors are true, and turning 40 really is gay death, then I'm elated to go out with so many of my dearest friends raising funds for the most incredible organization,” said Pazdernik. “Their name may be AIDS Foundation Chicago but their impact is felt by those living with and vulnerable to AIDS across the state of Illinois.”

“Once again, we are thrilled to be the beneficiary of Belting for Life, so grateful to Chris and the incredible community that rallies around this event,” said John Peller, President/CEO of AIDS Foundation Chicago. “This annual concert is yet another gift from him and his community that is making a real difference for people living with HIV.”

AIDS Foundation Chicago marks 40 years of work supporting individuals living with and impacted by HIV and AIDS through services including healthcare navigation, housing, and advocacy.

The event will also be made available in a video format following the performance for those unable to attend in person.

The concert will take place at Evanston SPACE, 1245 Chicago Avenue in Evanston, Illinois.



Theater Fans' Choice Awards
2026 Theater Fans' Choice Awards - Live Stats
Best Featured Performer in a Play - Top 3
1. Laurie Metcalf - Death of a Salesman
8.3% of votes
2. Alden Ehrenreich - Becky Shaw
5.5% of votes
3. June Squibb - Marjorie Prime
5.1% of votes

Need more Chicago Theatre News in your life?
Sign up for all the news on the Spring season, discounts & more...


Videos


South Pacific in Chicago South Pacific
Paramount Arts Centre (4/29-6/14)
Windfall in Chicago Windfall
Steppenwolf Theatre Company (4/09-5/31)
The Lifespan of a Fact in Chicago The Lifespan of a Fact
Parker Players Theater (4/24-5/17) PHOTOS VIDEOS
The Jeff Miller Band w/Agua Fresca and Special Opening Act, Vince in Chicago The Jeff Miller Band w/Agua Fresca and Special Opening Act, Vince
Phyllis' Musical Inn (6/03-6/03)
Open Mic Night in Chicago Open Mic Night
Raue Center For The Arts (5/21-5/21)
Chicago Comedy Hour in Chicago Chicago Comedy Hour
de Maat Theatre at The Second City (5/02-5/30)
Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical in Chicago Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical
CIBC Theatre (9/29-10/11)
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical in Chicago The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
North Shore Center for the Performing Arts - North Theatre (6/01-8/31) PHOTOS
The Three Little Pigs at Stahl Family Theatre in Chicago The Three Little Pigs at Stahl Family Theatre
Chicago Kids Company (5/06-7/31)
Water for Elephants (Chicago) in Chicago Water for Elephants (Chicago)
James M. Nederlander Theatre (6/23-7/05)