Met Room at Gotham Presents 'Calling All Angels 2' 8/20

John Hoglund and Sue Matsuki will present Calling All Angels 2 with two special cabaret concerts on Fridays, August 13 and 20 both at 7:00 pm at Metropolitan Room At Gotham. These extraordinary evenings are emergency benefits for cabaret's own Gregory Kennell and offer some of today's most acclaimed and outstanding artists from cabaret and theater. Hosted by John and Sue, the lineup at press time includes:

* Friday, Aug, 13: Nate Birkey, Baby Jane Dexter, Natalie Douglas, Rob Langeder, Audrey Lavine, Dana Lorge, Jose Luis, Richard Malavet, Mark Nadler, Anthony & Will Nunziata, Sarah Rice, Michael Sansonia, Marcus Simeone, Frank Torren - and more TBA.

* Friday, Aug. 20: Scott Albertson, Esther Beckman, Jill Cohen, Baby Jane Dexter, Maria Gentile, Sue Matsuki, Marieann Meringolo, Sidney Myer, David Pellegrene, Miles Phillips, Caress Ricardo, Steve Ross, Marcus Simeone - and more TBA.

This is not the first time the cabaret community has rallied for one of its own or for Mr. Kennell. The star-studded April gala at The Laurie Beechman Theater was totally sold out.

Former MAC Board Of Director and gifted graphic artist/entrepreneur Gregory Kennell fell ill last November. He remained in a coma for almost two months. Today, he has regained very limited use of motor skills. Extensive occupational therapy and daily care is vital for him to progress. Currently, there is NO income because state authorities have claimed his disability. The bed ridden man asks for minimal things like fruit and simple needs. Greg's family and partner (Marcus Simone) have given a great deal but can barely afford more with rising costs, etc. His 80 year old mother is on a fixed income and still lays out money for Greg's health insurance monthly in addition to $1400 a month for additional attendants to help his daily needs. Currently, Greg remains in a facility that is understaffed. The truth is that this is a heart-breaking story of resolve and how we do not have the resources to care for our sick.

Gregory Kennell is responsible for numerous graphic designs on some of cabaret and theater's most visible artists' albums, posters, fliers and ads in many publications including Back Stage and The New York Times.

Greg also served for several years as an active pro-member of the Manhattan Association of Cabarets & Clubs (MAC) Board Of Directors as well one of the community's most active champions.

Proceeds from these evenings go directly into a fund to assist Greg's treatment and recovery process. His family and caretakers are working to get him relocated to a state of the art advanced facility. For those unable to attend but wishing to help, checks may be made payable to Gregory Kennell and sent to Sue Matsuki: 16 Clifford Place, Brooklyn, NY 11222

Metropolitan Room at Gotham is located at 34 West 22nd Street (between 5th & 6th Avenues.) There will be a $20 Donation and a 2-Drink minimum. There are parking lots on the block. Reservations: (212) 206 0440.