Berkeley Rep: Cast Members Of 'Paradise Square' Raise $2500

Berkeley Repertory Theatre today announced that over $2,500 was raised via the cabaret benefit Paradise for Paradise created by company members of the world premiere musical Paradise Square. The idea for the fundraiser came from the performers' desire to pay forward the sense of togetherness and community depicted in the story of Paradise Square to Paradise, California, a town that was affected by the Camp Fire.

On Monday, February 27, 2019, nearly 90 patrons attended the sold-out special event in Michael's Second Act bar at Berkeley Rep, where they were treated to performances by the actors who shared their favorite songs, Irish step dances, and dramatic readings. A community member praised the fundraiser online stating, "As a member of the Paradise and surrounding communities, thank you for thinking of us. This is amazing!"

This fundraiser was an extension of Berkeley Rep's commitment to explore potential opportunities to be involved with its Bay Area community. "As we embark on a pivotal year for Berkeley Rep, we're passionate about seeing where we can make a difference and become an active member of northern California," says Managing Director Susan Medak. "Paradise for Paradise provides us the chance to extend our spirit of goodwill and show how we can work together with other organizations to provide relief for those impacted by an unfortunate event."

The Camp Fire was the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in California's history . The fire started on November 8, 2018 in Butte County, home to Paradise, Ca. It covered an area of 153,336 acres and destroyed nearly 19,000 structures with a total damage of nearly $16.5 billion. The fire caused at least 85 civilian fatalities.

The funds raised will be donated to North Valley Community Foundation (NVCF) which provides visionary community leadership by identifying emerging challenges in their region. NVCF brings together diverse groups of problem-solvers, mobilizes resources, and equips community leaders. They build and energize a community of engaged citizens and philanthropists who strengthen the common good.

Berkeley Repertory Theatre has grown from a storefront stage to an international leader in innovative theatre. Known for its ambition, relevance, and excellence, as well as its adventurous audience, the nonprofit has provided a welcoming home for emerging and established artists since 1968. Over 5.5 million people have enjoyed nearly 500 shows at Berkeley Rep, which have gone on to win five Tony Awards, seven Obie Awards, nine Drama Desk Awards, one Grammy Award, and many other honors. Berkeley Rep received the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre in 1997. Its School of Theatre engages and educates some 20,000 people a year and helps build the audiences of tomorrow with its nationally recognized teen programs. Berkeley Rep's bustling facilities - which also include the 400-seat Peet's Theatre, the 600-seat Roda Theatre, and a spacious campus in West Berkeley - are helping revitalize a renowned city. Be a Rep. Learn more at berkeleyrep.org

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