Broadway stars to shine at UCSF "Raising Hope" gala on March 14

By Corinna Kaarlela

Broadway stars Bernadette Peters and Tommy Tune will headline the gala “Raising Hope,” which benefits the UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center, next Monday, March 14.

The biennial fundraiser will feature a gourmet dinner and auction, topped off by cabaret-style entertainment.

Adding to the glamour of this year’s event is its location on Treasure Island? with a reception taking place in a distinguished art deco building, followed by dinner and entertainment in a see-through tent with the San Francisco skyline as a backdrop.

MEDIA ARE INVITED TO COVER:
“Raising Hope”
Monday, March 14, 2005
6:00 to 8:30 PM—Reception and Dinner
9:00 to 10:30 PM—Entertainment: Bernadette Peters & Tommy Tune Building One—Treasure Island

PHOTO/VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: The evening will conclude with a stunning display of 10 spotlights visible from many vantage points that could provide dramatic background for photos and news reports.

Since its inception in 1997, “Raising Hope” has generated more than $13 million to fund the work of the UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center, dedicated to the translation of promising ideas into new and better treatments for cancer patients.  Frank McCormick, PhD, FRS, is director.

Co-chairs of this year’s gala are Nanci Fredkin and Cathy Podell, who are the first to stage this festive event on Treasure Island.  The UCSF Foundation sponsors the event, and the UCSF Cancer Council serves as the event committee.

Well known for her leading roles on Broadway, Peters has won Tony Awards for her performance in “Song and Dance” and in the 1999 revival of “Annie Get Your Gun.”  She also has had starring roles in “The Goodbye Girl,” “Sunday in the Park with George,” and “Into the Woods.”

A Broadway regular since 1965, Tune has won an unprecedented nine Tony Awards for choreography, direction, and performance in such productions as “Seesaw” and “Grand Hotel, the Musical.” He received the National Medal of Arts in 2003, the nation’s highest honor for artistic achievement.

MEDIA CONTACT: To cover the event or arrange interviews with Ms. Peters, Mr. Tune or UCSF cancer specialists, contact Corinna Kaarlela in the UCSF News Office at (415) 476-2557.