Every landmark building needs a strong foundation……a source of strength that helps shoulder the burden
…and a base of support upon which the structure must rest.
In each issue of "The Curtain Speech" this section will highlight some of the Auditorium Theatre’s cornerstones—individuals, corporations, and foundations whose support has been especially heartwarming. We are incredibly grateful for their generosity and for their kindness. And we want to acknowledge them because their selflessness is instrumental in helping our National Historic Landmark persevere, prosper, and grow.
These are compassionate people, responsible corporations, and philanthropic institutions committed to making a difference in the world.
These are friends just like you.
These are our cornerstones.
Hearts in Harmony
Throughout the years, the Auditorium Theatre has
been fortunate to benefit from the generosity of countless individuals,
corporations, and foundations whose heartwarming support has proven essential
to the continued success of our most vital programs. We are uniquely honored,
however, when we see this kindness exhibited by the performers who grace our
stage.
One of these individuals, Joan Curto, is a renowned
Chicago-based cabaret singer who was particularly touched by the Auditorium
Theatre’s seminal outreach program, “Hands Together, Heart to Art,” our summer
arts camp for children who have experienced the death of a parent.
A proud performer of the Great American Songbook and former Chicago After Dark Winner for Outstanding Cabaret Artist, Joan Curto first graced the stage
of the Auditorium Theatre in 2009. Although
Joan would later say that she “felt honored to be on the (Auditorium’s) stage,”
it was the audience, and the organization, that were truly honored—not merely
by experiencing Joan’s incredible talent, but by the faithful friendship she
would continue to display throughout the years.
In addition to her wide array of captivating
performances, Joan Curto is the President of the Board of Directors of the
Chicago Cabaret Professionals (CCP).
This esteemed role allows her to contribute to an organization committed
to making a difference by shaping and enhancing the cultural fabric that
surrounds us.
In
"Hands Together, Heart to Art," Joan saw a program that truly aligns
with the mission of the Chicago Cabaret Professionals, an outreach opportunity
that makes a profound impact on the lives of some of Chicago's most vulnerable,
impressionable, and important individuals...our children.
Over the
last several years, the Chicago Cabaret Professionals have donated substantial
time, energy, and support to ensure that all the children enrolled in
"Hands Together, Heart to Art" experienced one of the most rewarding
and life-changing opportunities possible.
The unique healing experience, “fits perfectly with the CCP’s mission”
Joan said. “The CCP has embraced this
cause. The organization wants to help children in any way it can…especially
those have endured such traumatic circumstances. We are proud to help the camp.”
The
results of their graciousness cannot be overstated. Anyone who gives to “Hands Together, Heart to
Art” is helping to provide comfort, healing and inspiration to hurting children
from throughout the Chicago area, and their generosity will have recurring
resonance for the campers and their families for many years to come.
Of
course, Joan Curto is exceedingly humble, but the true measure of her kindness—and
indeed, of the friendship of the Chicago Cabaret Professionals—cannot be gauged
by simply acknowledging their tremendous support, however commendable it may
be.
The mark
of their friendship can be seen in the faces of hundreds of children throughout
the Chicago area. Its impact is visible
in their smiles, their laughter, and in their newfound courage as they leave
camp noticeably less-burdened than before, filled with the hope and the
strength to pursue productive, promising, and successful lives.
Because
of this commitment, we offer Joan and the Chicago Cabaret Professionals our
most heartfelt thanks. We are immensely
grateful for all they share with us…for the artistry they display on our stage,
to the kindness they show long after the spotlights have grown dark.
