Local comics, musicians and dancers are joining forces next month in an effort to raise funds for children affected by the ongoing devastation in the Gaza Strip.
Fox Theatre will hold A Benefit in Support of Children in Gaza on October 7. Hosted by Paul Anthony of Paul Anthony’s TALENT TIME, the evening will feature comedy by Charlie Demers, Sean Devlin (of Shit Harper Did fame) and members of improv troupe The Sunday Service, along with music by Tonye Aganaba, Bedouin Soundclash’s Jay Malinowski and some “VERY SPECIAL SURPRISE GUESTS!!!”
Renowned addictions specialist, Dr. Gabor Maté, will give a talk addressing the specific needs of children in the strip.
Maté’s daughter, Hannah – a improv comic and psychology major– created the fundraiser after watching the destruction and loss of life children had been facing in Gaza all summer. She’s organized the evening independently, on her own time.
“I’m a Jewish person,” she says. “I’ve lived in Israel and I was really saddened about what has happened in Gaza, and by all the people killed, frankly.”
The evening will be politics-free, she says – none of the performers will promote a political agenda regarding the Middle East. Instead, the event is geared toward promoting Vancouver’s arts community.
All proceeds from the event will be donated to UNICEF’s efforts in Gaza.
“My hopes are to raise money for UNICEF, obviously, but equally important is to bring the community together to do something meaningful,” Maté says.
Entry is a $20 minimum donation. There will also be a 50/50 draw and a raffle for certificates to local businesses.
Doors are at 8pm. Seating will be limited, so get there early.
