Rudy Foundation to Host LIFE IS A CABARET Benefit, 9/22

MFF adds a twist to the traditional cabaret by bringing different styles of music together into one production to tell a story. Each MFF cabaret will tell a unique story and inspire audiences with a new message. "Life Is a Cabaret" will focus primarily on Broadway show tunes while also incorporating pop music to help tell a story about the joys and woes of relationships.

Empowering audiences by exposing soulful stories through song, LIFE IS A CABARET will star some of the most creative educators, performers and directors on the Las Vegas performing arts scene, including:

Alex Cheney - Entertainment Manager for Caesars Entertainment and Vocal Director for Broadway Bound, Alex is a former dancer in Bally's Jubilee! And has performed for Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Opryland Productions, and Louise Mandrell. He also spent almost six years at sea as a singer/dancer and production manager for Stiletto Entertainment and Holland America Line. On stage, he's portrayed leading roles in She Loves Me, The Magic Flute, and Sound of Music.

Julian Lam - Winner of the J. Huntzinger Concerto Competition in 2004 and 2005, Julian Lam has developed an impressive musical skill set over his 15 years of working as an accompanist and piano teacher. After being instructed by Dr. Mykola Suk, professor of University Nevada, Las Vegas and Dr. James Giles, professor of Northwestern University, he earned both a Bachelor and Master of Music degree in piano performance from UNLV.

Karen Langford - Technical Director of Broadway Bound, Karen's experience ranges from lead vocalist for a Top 40s cover band to a committed involvement in technical stage work for Signature Productions and P.S. Productions.

Melissa Riezler - Locally known for her role as former 'Anna' of Signature Productions' 2009 production of The King and I, Melissa's extensive resume includes over six years of performing for Walt Disney World with Disney Productions and leading roles in Las Vegas shows including Annie, Sound of Music, and Oliver!.

Amanda Hope Terrill - Talent Coordinator for Caesars Entertainment and singer for St. Thomas Moore Catholic Community, Amanda's involvement in local theatre throughout the past decade includes working for PS Productions, Huntsman Entertainment, Broadway Bound, and Las Vegas Little Theatre, and performing for Signature Productions' All Shook Up, Little Shop of Horrors, and Sound of Music.

Michael Vojvodich - Director and Instructor of Broadway Bound, the musical theater program at Studio One's Summerlin Dance Academy that focuses on teaching children music, choreography, and performance technique from Broadway shows. Michael's extensive resume of leading roles includes Jesus Christ Superstar, Jekyll and Hyde, Little Shop of Horrors, A Little Night Music, West Side Story, and Grease.

Both nights will be filled with stunning performances of musical numbers from various Broadway favorites, including JEKYLL & HYDE, AIDA, ONCE, NEXT TO NORMAL, WICKED, THE SECRET GARDEN, with many surprises in store. In partnership with MFF, the showcase aims to provide support, awareness, and funding for Rudy Foundation.

Founder and executive director of Rudy Foundation, Cheryl Ruettiger is excited for this showcase to further the use of performing arts as a medium to educate and raise awareness about supporting individuals and communities in harmony.

"My ultimate goal for this year's performing arts initiative is to raise the funds and awareness to establish a true community center for performing arts in Las Vegas, where local theater groups can present professional quality entertainment and bring communities together to experience life changing and inspiring productions," said Ruettiger.