The Benjack Studio Theatre at the TRDance Center in Downtown Norfolk will host the 15th Annual Arts For Life on Monday, December 6 to benefit programs and services for people living with HIV in Hampton Roads. All performers from across Coastal Virginia donate their time to create this showcase concert to benefit LGBT life Center.
December 1 marks the annual observance of World AIDS Day—a day of remembrance, a day to raise awareness, a day to bring attention to the spread of HIV. Since 2006 leading arts organizations throughout Hampton Roads have joined forces to celebrateArts For Life, an evening of dance, theater and song to benefit LGBT Life Center and the estimated 8,000 people living with HIV in Hampton Roads.
“It is our responsibility as artists, as individuals, to lend our talents and support to benefit those organizations helping to ease the struggle caused by this worldwide epidemic,” said Ricardo Melendez, Artistic Director for Virginia Ballet Theatre and Artistic Producer of “Arts For Life.” “I believe that charity begins at home. HIV is affecting all sectors of our community, and rates continue to climb for our youth. So we have gathered local artists and offered our talents to benefit those locally affected.” said Melendez.
From its inception, “Arts For Life” has brought together internationally recognized local artists and this year is no different. Performances this year will include appearances from Hampton Roads leading arts organizations like Todd Rosenlieb Dance, Virginia Ballet Theatre, Actor’s Workshop of Virginia and The Governor’s School for the Arts, amongst others, in a benefit concert that raises awareness and grants support to LGBT Life Center. This performance will be ASL interpreted by Mindy Brown. After the performance, all guests are invited to a post-concert reception at Gershwin’s where auction items donated by community members will raise additional funds LGBT Life Center.
The event is produced by all volunteers including the artists and 100% of proceeds will be donated to LGBT Life Center in honor of World AIDS Day 2021.
WANT TO GO?
What: The 15th Annual “Arts For Life” – A World AIDS Day Benefit
When: December 6, 2021 – 7:00pm
Where: Benjack Studio Theatre at TRDance, 325 Granby Street, Norfolk
Cost: $25 adults / $15 students (All proceeds to benefit LGBT Life Center)
Tickets: www.trdance.org/artsforlife or at the door beginning one-hour prior to curtain
