On Saturday, October 17, Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center (WHBPAC) is paying homage to the tunes of the ’70s during a special two-hour live-streamed telethon. Rock band Square Feeet will headline Here Come the ’70s, which will entertain viewers with hits from the Eagles, Queen, Fleetwood Mac, Styx, and more from the “Me Decade” performed on WHBPAC’s beloved Mainstage. The telethon will commence at 8:00 p.m. and air on all of the WHBPAC’s streaming platforms, as well as on whbpac.org.
“This is an incredible opportunity to bring the work of the WHBPAC forward as we continue through the pandemic. We are all in this together because the performing arts are not optional,” said Executive Director Julienne Penza-Boone. “While surrounding states are reopening live venues, we are working hard to maintain our theatre – and we can’t wait to have a night of music and fun as the cultural arts are in urgent need of funding and hope.”
The evening, which will raise vital funding for the Westhampton Beach-based 501c(3) organization that provides world-class performing arts and enriching educational programming year-round, will include extraordinary musical performances, several surprises, and a look at the organization’s work through interviews with WHBPAC’s staff and volunteers.
In addition to raising funds through the live-stream telethon and online platforms, there will also be the chance to bid on incredible experiences such as a “shoot-out” with PAC resident photophile (and Director of Sales) Allison Frost, a singing lesson with Arts Academy Director Kristen Poulakis, a one-of-a-kind private movie night or family matinee at WHBPAC or welcome a group of friends at the theater for a Musical Game Night hosted by Director of Production Frank Russell and Marketing Manager Heather Draskin. “These unique experiences will draw the audiences into the theatre to show the ‘dream team’ who keeps the theatre alive,” noted Penza-Boone.
Proceeds from Here Come the ’70s will support WHBPAC’s impending reopening, as well as equipping the theater with necessary safety measures. Unfortunately, WHBPAC had to reschedule all of its scheduled summer 2020 live performances, presenting events either virtually or via drive-in. The NY Forward Plan has yet to issue a date for when venues like WHBPAC may re-open.
“For decades, WHBPAC has been a leader in the East End arts scene. Our yearly programming has established an incredible foundation for us to continue serving our community and bringing the performing arts right to our audiences,” said Penza-Boone. “The telethon will be instrumental in raising awareness for the current state of the live events industry.”
A hallmark of Westhampton Beach for more than 20 years, the Performing Arts Center has hosted many, many notable names, including Patti Lupone, Ben Vereen, Andy Grammer, Jason Mraz, Keb’ Mo’, David Crosby, Sutton Foster, Oz Pearlman, Three Dog Night, Stephen Marley, Postmodern Jukebox, Colbie Caillat and Gone West, and more. Through WHBPAC Arts Academy School Day Performances, over 10,000 students have been able to experience nationally renowned touring theatre troupes.
Here Come the ’70s will stream on Facebook, Vimeo, and on WHBPAC’s website.
For more information, visit whbpac.org.