RITMO DMV’s dramatic finale to “Yo No Se Mañana” during last year’s cabaret. Photo by Bonnie Hobbs.
Singing, dancing, comedy sketches, a silent auction, food and fun will take center stage when Westfield High and Angel Fund host a free event celebrating life and community through the arts. It’s slated for Saturday, June 4, in the Westfield auditorium, 4700 Stonecroft Blvd. in Chantilly.
The festivities begin with a silent auction and bake sale at 6 p.m., followed by a variety show at 7 p.m. There’ll be one intermission when attendees may purchase more baked goods and continue bidding on the items up for auction.
It’s the Ninth Annual Remembrance Cabaret in honor of Virginia Tech victim and Westfield grad Reema Samaha. And besides providing entertainment for the whole family, it’s a fundraiser for two charities that improve students’ lives.
There’s no charge for admission, but all donations made that night, plus proceeds from T-shirt and baked-goods sales, will benefit both the Reema J. Samaha Memorial Scholarship Fund, as well as Angel Fund, which supports the safety and wellbeing of youth and school-aged children.
The scholarship fund is administered by the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia. And each year, the foundation awards scholarships to eligible Westfield and Herndon high school seniors who will attend an accredited college in Virginia.
So, said event organizer and Westfield grad Ashley Dillard, “It’s a great show that raises money for good causes, and you don't have to have known Reema to come enjoy the amazing performances. Everyone is welcome to attend and have a wonderful time.”
Dillard organized the performers and is excited about the talent she’s lined up. The Cabaret features professional and up-and-coming dancers, singers and comedy sketch artists from the Washington Metropolitan area, New York and Chicago. This year’s hosts are professional improv and comedic actors Jesse Leahy and Megan Meadows, both Westfield High graduates.
Some of the acts include the Gin Dance Company and special gust singer Jim Van Slyke, as well as dancer/singer/actor Ahmad Maaty. In addition, two other Westfield grads, actress and singer Jade Jones and dancer Michelle Murgia, will perform a number together.
Emily Gardenhire, a professional actress and singer from New York, will be singing a solo. Westfield grad Joshua Braunstein will perform slam poetry, and the Russell School of Ballet will do a group dance number along with the Ashburn Academy of Dance. Also, Actively Caring for People will give a brief presentation on the work it’s doing in the community and schools to encourage people to care for others and perform intentional acts of kindness as part of their daily routine.
Janet Dueweke, in charge of the silent auction, is still gathering items for it, but some of the bidding items she has currently include: Gift cards from local restaurants (Ciao Osteria, P.F. Chang’s, Caboose Brewery, Carrabba’s and Lebanese Kitchen); Meadows Farms Nursery gift card; Ninja juicer; Ninja coffee bar; Sonicare toothbrush system; Primal Kitchen cookbook; Spa basket filled with goodies, plus a gift card from Sully Nails; original artwork, jewelry, sports memorabilia, paintings and photography.
All in all, said Dillard, “There is truly something for everyone at this event, as it reflects performing arts from all backgrounds. We want the whole community to come and enjoy energized performances, take home some auction items and celebrate the arts with their neighbors.”
For more information about the Reema J. Samaha Memorial Scholarship and Angel Fund, go to www.angelfundva.net.