Bebe Neuwirth to be Honored at CTFD Jubilee, October 29

Rolex presents "Dance Rocks: An Electrifying Evening Of Entertainment"- Career Transition For Dancers, 22nd Anniversary Jubilee - on Monday, October 29 at 7:00 pm at New York City Center, 131 West 55 Street (between 7 and 6 Avenues).  

For one night only, it will be an entertaining, electrifying evening of dance set to music through the decades, from the 50's to hip-hop.  With the eclectic fusion of dance and live contemporary music, "Dance Rocks" will attract theatergoers as well as nostalgia seekers of all generations for an evening of pulsating entertainment.  The Gala will be the entertainment-dance event of the new season.  The honorees for the Gala are Bebe Neuwirth,  Anka K. Palitz and The Jerome Robbins Foundation.

"We are delighted to present the Rolex Dance Award to Bebe Neuwirth (Chicago, Sweet Charity), one of the most celebrated dancer/singer/actresses of our time.  Her career on stage and both in film and television are a testament to her versatility. As such a dedicated supporter of Career Transition for Dancers, it is an honor to be celebrating her career and many contributions to the world of dance," said Allen Brill, President and CEO of Rolex Watch USA.

Anka K. Paltz stated "I am thrilled to receive Career Transition For Dancers' 2007 Award for Outstanding Contributions to the World of Dance.  My life has been influenced by the beauty of dance and the very special needs of its dancers. The brevity of a career in dance and resulting crisis can now be minimized by the career programs, services and scholarship funds available at Career Transition For Dancers. It is so comforting to know that The Clarence Y. Palitz Jr. Scholarship Fund, established in my late husband's memory, has made a difference by providing more than 30 dancers with the vital funds to return to higher education to compete in today's work force.  It has been my privilege to serve on its Board of Directors, and I humbly accept this award on behalf of the more than 3,500 dancers CTFD has serviced, nationwide. I salute them."  Floria Lasky said "The Trustees of The Jerome Robbins Foundation are pleased and proud to receive Career Transition For Dancers' 2007 Award for Outstanding Contributions to the World of Dance.  The missions of The Jerome Robbins Foundation, founded in 1958, and Career Transition For Dancers, complement each other in supporting dance and dancers.   We thank CTFD's Board of Directors for recognizing the achievements of the Foundation with this honor and congratulate them on their 22nd Anniversary."

"Since its founding in 1985 Career Transition For Dancers, with offices in New York City and Los Angeles, has helped professional dancers identify their unique talents in preparation for establishing new careers when dance is no longer an option. CTFD has provided dancers in 47 states with approximately 38,000 hours – equivalent to $4 million - of career counseling & program services - at no cost - and has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships for education and entrepreneurial grants. CTFD also provides dancers with seminars/workshops; support groups; resource centers; a toll-free hotline; and the National Networking Directory," state press notes.    

Gala tickets are $600, 750 & $1,200 each, which include the performance and a post-performance 'Anniversary Supper with the Stars', live auction and dancing at The Metropolitan Ballroom at the Sheraton New York (811 Seventh Ave). Sponsorships and tables are also available as well as Journal ads.  For gala tickets please call Marjorie Horne, McEvoy & Assocs. at (212) 228-7446 x33 and for Group Sales please call (718) 499-9691. The phone number for CTFD is (212) 764-0172.  Performance only tickets are $130, $75, $55 and $45.  Visit www.careertransition.org for more information on Career Transition for Dancers.

Photo of Bebe Neuwirth by Walter McBride/Retna Ltd.