Tony Winner Kelli O'Hara to Host Autism Speaks Benefit; Julia Murney, Erin Davie, Emily Padgett & More Will Perform

The first annual Arts For Autism Benefit Concert will be hosted by Tony Award Winner, Kelli O'Hara, it was announced today. Fresh off her Tony-Award-winning run as Anna in the hit revival of The King and I, O'Hara knows how to "Whistle a Happy Tune" all while supporting a noteworthy cause.

On June 20th, 2016, at 7:30pm, O'Hara will be joined by over a dozen other Broadway performers at the iconic Gershwin Theatre for a one-night-only event to benefit Autism Speaks. Also sharing the spotlight will be young performing arts students from around the country who have auditioned for the opportunity to perform on a Broadway stage and support the cause.

With performances from your favorite Broadway stars, the concert promises to sing to your soul. Erin Davie and Emily Padgett, also known as the Side Show twins, will con-join up again for a memorable performance alongside the Sandra Day O'Connor High School Choir from San Antonio Texas. The Doo Wop Project, comprised of soulful stars from the Broadway smash-hits Jersey Boys and MoTown: The Musical, will also hit the stage. Other performers recently announced include: Paul Nolan, who you can see currently in Bright Star; Carly Hughes, who you know from Beautiful and the critically acclaimed revival of Pippin; Correy West from South Pacific; Erikka Walsh from Once; and Julia Murney, better known as Elphaba from Wicked.

The concert will feature songs from the best of Broadway that inspire feelings of tolerance, understanding, kindness and compassion. Concert producer and Artistic Director, Jacque Carnahan, says, "It's going to be an inspiring evening of song and dance to support a wonderful cause. We believe the arts can change lives, including those who are affected by autism. In addition to being masterfully entertained, the audience will come away with a deeper understanding of autism, and hopefully inspired to bring this new compassion into their daily lives." David Alpert (If/Then) will direct the concert with music direction by Sonny Paladino (...Great Comet of 1812).

The concert is being produced by Believe NYC and Educational Travel Adventures. These organizations educate and enrich the lives of young people through arts workshops, master classes, professional performances, and travel opportunities throughout the world. 100% of proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Autism Speaks, the world's largest autism science, advocacy, and family services non-profit. Your support can make a brighter future for those who struggle with autism. You don't want to miss this memorable night! Tune in and buy your tickets now!

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit http://artsforautism.net.