The outdoor fundraiser in Shubert Alley raises money for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and features a host of theatrical memorabilia donated by the theatrical community. The day-long event also boasts a Celebrity Table, where theatre fans can purchase autographs by or photos with their favorite stars from Broadway, Off-Broadway and television serials. The well-attended event also includes a Grand Auction, where "unique and priceless items" are auctioned to the highest bidder. Last year's auction raised $450,000 for BC/EFA. During the Grand Auction, the walk-on parts in Broadway musicals garnered the highest bids — Mamma Mia! raised the most ($13,000) with The Phantom of the Opera and Hairspray taking $6,000. Opening-night tickets and party passes to Dance of the Vampires went for $4,000 with Man of La Mancha a close second at $3,600.
Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is the nation’s largest industry-based, nonprofit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organization. Since its founding in 1988 the organization has distributed over $65 million for services for people with AIDS, HIV or HIV-related illnesses. For more information on the Flea Market and other BC/EFA events, visit their website at www.bcefa.org or call (212) 840-0770.