The Backlot Hosts the First Ever Kaleidoscope Benefit

Helping the arts community help adults and children with disabilities.

(PRWEB) January 28, 2007 -- If you've ever been to a Kaleidoscope performance, you've seen the self-esteem, the confidence, the ensemble rapport and the impressive skill development displayed by its proud participants -- all older children and adults with developmental disabilities. Through Kaleidoscope, many participants have been able to achieve clinical goals that have otherwise been unattainable.

Kaleidoscope is the groundbreaking result of a partnership between the Community Haven for Children and Adults with Disabilities, a not-for-profit human services agency, and Asolo Repertory Theatre, another not-for-profit group. The program puts the disabled on stage, enabling them to shine in a way they never have before -- the results are astounding. The experience profoundly affects the participants, as well as their teachers and coaches, and all of those touched by the Kaleidoscope program.

After completing a successful summer season at Asolo Rep with its original show, Picture This! A Newspaper from our Perspective, Kaleidoscope's touring program gave more than 20 performances in the community this past fall.

Now The Backlot is hosting an opportunity for the community to show its support and appreciation for Kaleidoscope. On Feb. 23, 2007, at 7:00 p.m., the Backlot will host the Kaleidoscope Benefit, Shifting Perspective, a collaborative effort of local artists performing together in an exclusive one-night event. Performance come from Jeffrey Kin's Got a Minute, The gg Monologues, Annie Morrison's One Woman Show, Becky's Rejects, Swing-n-Suede, the Suncoast Youth Theatre's Rising Stars and many more, including, of course, Kaleidoscope.

This cost to attend this amazing display of local talent and support an amazing community group is only $25 per person. In addition to the performances, the event will feature a silent auction and cash bar. Emceed by Jeffrey Kin and Amanda Schlachter.

For more information, call Amanda Schlachter at 941-355-8808, ext. 258. For reservations, call Amanda or go to www.srqboxoffice.com.

Community Haven for Adults and Children with Disabilities, Inc. (CHAC) is a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation -- Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services #SC-00243, CARF Accredited, United Way Member Agency, licensed and funded in part by the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Sarasota and Manatee Counties, the DOE/DVR and the State of Florida. Rules of Acceptance and Participation in the programs are the same for everyone, without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex or handicap.

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