Slava's Snowshow Hosts Special World AIDS Day Benefit, Dec. 7
By: BWW News Desk Dec. 06, 2005
A significant portion of proceeds from the special performance will benefit TPAA's lifesaving HIV/AIDS prevention education campaigns in Russia and Ukraine. The former Soviet Union is now home to the world's fastest-growing HIV epidemic. According to 2005 UNAIDS/World Health Organization Global AIDS Epidemic Report, Russia and Ukraine's HIV-positive population has increased almost 20-fold in under 10 years. The Russian Federation now has the "biggest AIDS epidemic in all of Europe."
Crowned Miss Universe 2005 last May, Natalie Glebova has spent the past 8 months raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and urging young women to get tested. Glebova, who was born in Russia in 1982 and moved to Canada at age 12, is planning a special trip back to her homeland in early 2006 to urge young Russians to help prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS.
"Education and awareness remain our only vaccine against this deadly virus," said TPAA President John Tedstrom. "TPAA is honored to work with Slava Polunin, Natalie Glebova, and Oksana Baiul to help bring public attention to the surging HIV/AIDS epidemics in Russia and Ukraine. Their impressive dedication to this cause can help raise awareness, reduce stigma and discrimination and, ultimately, save lives."
Olympic gold medalist Oksana Baiul from Ukraine is equally concerned about surging rates of infection in Russia. "This performance is an opportunity for the Russian-American community to come together to fight the tragic HIV rates in Russia. TPAA's work is helping to increase awareness, reduce discrimination and promote prevention in Russia and Ukraine."
Ticket buyers have the opportunity to receive premium VIP seating and a chance to meet the cast after the show to receive signed programs. Theatergoers will also be able to purchase special red wristbands throughout December to build awareness for the cause. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster at (212) 307-4100. Prices are $62.90. Buyers must reference code TPAA62 to direct proceeds to the cause.
For those unable to attend the December 7 event, tickets purchased for performances through December 18 will also benefit TPAA when the code above is mentioned. TPAA Benefit performances of Slava's Snowshow are sponsored by Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, MAC VIVA GLAM, and Davidzon Radio.
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