BWW News: Theatre Lab School for the Dramatic Arts Celebrates 25 years of Arts in Education Excellence with Mammoth Fundraiser
By: Elliot Lanes
On Sunday, November 5, The Theatre Lab School of the Dramatic Arts hosted the 25th Anniversary Cabaret Dinner + Auction, the premiere event of the organization's milestone year. Held for the first time at the Ritz Carlton Washington, this year's Cabaret brought together around 500 artists, supporters, and friends of The Theatre Lab to enjoy great food and entertainment, and raise money to support educational programs. Through the generosity of guests, the evening raised more than $325,000 to bring the transformational power of theatre education to low-income children and teens, incarcerated and at-risk youth, homeless women in recovery, LGBTQ teens, older adults, wounded veterans, and more.
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The evening kicked off with a performance from Theatre Lab co-fouders Buzz Mauro and Deb Gottesman with NBC Washington anchor Jim Handley. The event featured performances by participants in The Theatre Lab's award-winning Life Stories Program, paid tribute to Jim Vance through the announcement of a new scholarship, which was featured on NBC Washington, and honored Howard Shalwitz, artistic director of Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company.
During his remarks, Mr. Shalwitz said, "Theatre Lab's training is both rigorous and really humane for people of all ages, backgrounds, financial means, and experience. There's something really, really special going on at this organization and for a long time.
"I really feel that we've shared a philosophy with Theatre Lab. Theatre is not just an end in itself, but a critical tool for personal growth and engagement. I've always felt a kinship of values with Theatre Lab," said Shalwitz speaking about his time at Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company.
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