The Tony-winning The Drowsy Chaperone, which was developed through NAMT, will be represented by Leavel and Martin, who will host the 6 PM concert. The celebration of the Festival of New Musical's 20th anniversary will offer highlights from past musicals developed through the Festival. Jamie deRoy serves as honorary chair for the fundraiser, which will take place at Comix. Currently scheduled to perform are Stephanie D'Abruzzo (Avenue Q), Will Chase (Rent), Gavin Creel (Mary Poppins), LaChanze (The Color Purple), Lauren Pritchard (Spring Awakening), Ryan Driscoll (Summer of '42), Malcolm Gets (Amour), Lauren Kennedy (Spamalot), Robb Sapp (Wicked) and Bobby Steggert (Yank!).
Casey Hushion directs the evening with musical direction by Lynne Shankel. Selections will be performed from The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin, The Drowsy Chaperone, Harold and Maude, Honk!, I Love You Because, The Story of My Life, Striking 12, Summer of '42, Thoroughly Modern Millie and Vanities, A New Musical.
The NAMT Festival of New Musicals officially gets underway Oct. 20-21. The industry-only event provides eight new musicals a platform for greater exposure to potential producers and regional companies seeking to aid in the development of new work.
Founded in 1985 and based in New York City, The National Alliance for Musical Theatre is a national service organization dedicated exclusively to musical theatre. Kathy Evans is the executive director for the organization with members sprinkled throughout 33 states and six countries.
For tickets to A Toast to 20!, visit NAMT.
Comix is located at 353 West 14th Street in Manhattan.