Performing dazzling numbers from “Part of Your World” to “Corner of the Sky,” North Penn Thespians join others nationwide in raising awareness and providing funds in the fight against AIDS. 

On February 9th, 2024, North Penn Thespian Troupe #5464 opened its doors yet again to hold ranging performances to raise donations for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. This year in particular has marked the 25th anniversary of North Penn’s participation in this charitable event.  

“It’s a cabaret show, lots of different people perform and it’s all to support people living with AIDS, help support them with their medication, help support them with their groceries, help support them with living through their everyday life,” said Sawyer Steinbauer, Vice President of the North Penn Thespian Troupe. “Over 25 years we helped raise over 100,000 dollars in total and it’s incredible to be a part of.”

The evening began with engaging coffee house performances, featuring musical classics like “Journey to the Past,” from Anastasia, performed by Sarah Koester, and “The Song That Goes Like This” from Spamalot, performed by Dottie Calhoun and Alex Goepel. All the while attendees could make donations in exchange for ribbons and bracelets to fund the noble cause and make a difference. 

“Thespian troupes across the U.S. have raised over $2 million,” Steinbauer stated.

The first act started with a bang with the Comprehensive Music Technology Class’ performance of “Holding Out For A Hero,” followed by many impressive performances from both the high school Thespians and the middle schools’ musical casts. 

Each Middle School featured songs from their upcoming spring musicals. Such as Pennbrooke’s audacious “Revolting Children,” from Matilda the Musical; Pennfield’s ghoulish “When You’re an Adams,” from The Adams Family; and Penndale’s various whimsical numbers from The Wizard of Oz. Performances with young talents like these are imperative to bring future generations of Thespians to this annual charitable tradition. 

“It started 25 years ago, and each year after that we keep passing it on to the next generation of the thespian troupe,” Steinbauer noted. “Last year was our biggest BCEFA ever. Again, we hope to keep on increasing upon that this year, next year, and in the future. It’s generation after generation of Thespian coming together for a greater cause.”

The first act ended with the lively “Minute-to-Give-It” challenge, and intermission followed soon after. Along with more enjoyable Coffee House Performances, the attendees were able to explore the Broadway Silent Auction and Flea Market, all proceeds from bids and donations directly benefiting Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids. 

Further, once the Silent Auction closed the second, equally as breathtaking, act began. Including heartwarming alumni reflections and outstanding performances like “Apex Predator,” from Mean Girls, performed by Alayna Drolet and Cate Trapani; “Part of Your World,” from The Little Mermaid, performed by Carley Jones; and both “The Bells of Notre Dame,” and “Rhythm of the Tambourine,” from North Penn High School’s production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. 

The night came to a close with the annual tradition of the entire company joining the stage to dance to “Pop Corn” by Gershon Kingsley and sing along to “Seasons of Love,” from Rent. 

For more information about this wonderful night and cause look to www.npenn.org/theatre or to broadwaycares.org to make further donations.