The Prom at Theater for Charity

Theater for Charity (TFC), a community-driven organization dedicated to using the arts to give back. TFC’s mission is simple: to bring people together through theater while giving back to the community. Theater for Charity is thrilled to announce its 2026 production of the hit Broadway musical The Prom. This year, TFC is proud to support its 2026 charity partner, Youth Outlook, an organization dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth and creating safe, affirming spaces for young people in the community. The Prom is a big-hearted, high-energy musical comedy about love, acceptance, and finding the courage to stand up for what’s right. When Emma, an Indiana high school student, is told she can’t bring her girlfriend to the prom, the controversy catches the attention of four eccentric Broadway performers looking for a cause that might also revive their public images. They arrive in small-town Indiana ready to make a splash—but soon discover that creating real change takes more than a spotlight. Filled with show-stopping musical numbers, laugh-out-loud moments, and an uplifting message, The Prom celebrates the power of community, the importance of being true to yourself, and the difference people can make when they choose compassion over judgment. At its heart, it’s a joyful reminder that everyone deserves a place at the dance—and the freedom to love who they love. Cast include talented people from Naperville, Lisle, Chicago, Lombard, Oswego, Wheaton, Romeoville, Woodridge, and include: Amy Madzinski, Aubree Romaine, Bea Polverini, Christine Pfeffinger, Geon Ruffin, Hannah Vorderer, Jatie Baumgartner, Jocelyn Morton, Jodi Bernicky, Josh Dennison, Julie Abud, Kat Carpenter, Kevin Erwin, Kiersa Downs, Lara Rose, Leah Kye, Liv Benson, Mark Geiger, Mary Hussey, Michael Norkus, Natalie Chibe, Nathan Williams, Nicholas Baumgartner, Nicholas Morea, Rheya Lewis, Salem Channell, Sirean Morea, Tati Utvic

Performances will take place at Center Stage Theater in Naperville on: • September 25, 26 & 27, 2026 Friday and Saturday – 7PM; Sunday – 1PM • October 3 & 4, 2026 (two shows on the 4th) Friday and Saturday night – 7PM; Saturday additional show 1PM • 1665 Quincy Avenue, Suite 131, Naperville, IL 60540 Tickets are on sale now. $25 online (theaterforcharity.com - $30 at the door The 2026 production team includes: Producers: Lynn Hodak and Michael Norkus, Director: Mike Frale, Assistant Director: Annamarie Ahonen, Choreographer: Bianca Pietro, Vocal Director: Ali Kordelewski, Production Assistant: AC Fuller, Sound Designer: Marty Lick, Lighting Director: Marty Lick, and Intimacy Director: Claire Yearman.

TFC has quickly become a vibrant and inclusive creative community, bringing together performers and audiences of all ages while supporting meaningful local causes. As the organization gears up for its next production, TFC reflects on its impact to date: • Over 100 actors have participated in productions, many returning year after year • Performers have ranged in age from 8 to 74, highlighting TFC’s commitment to inclusivity • More than 1,000 audience members have attended TFC performances • Hosted two Cabaret fundraisers and two Trivia Nights to support operational expenses • Donated $10,000 to local community charities

TFC’s growing legacy includes past productions of Into the Woods, High School Musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Freaky Friday—the latter recognized as a recommended production by the Lou Committee. “We are incredibly proud of the community we’ve built and the impact we’ve made in such a short time,” said Producer Lynn Hodak. “As we prepare for our fifth show, we remain committed to creating meaningful theatrical experiences while giving back to the community we love.”