Powerstories Theatre’s “A Celebration of the POWER of the Arts”

Powerstories Theatre is ecstatic to announce “A Celebration of the Power of the Arts,” a theatrical fundraising event featuring Stan Zimmerman, the brilliant mind behind some of television’s most beloved shows, Gilmore Girls, The Golden Girls, and Roseanne. Zimmerman will be the narrator of his play, “Right Before I Go,” on September 20 and 21 at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center.

The event starts at 7:00 PM with an Artwork Exhibit featuring Powerstories art wall artists and Project Return, hors d’oeuvres, and a chance to win through a Raffle and Silent Auction. A Founder’s Message and the reveal of the 25th Anniversary Season will set the stage for an evening of profound storytelling and community connection.

Zimmerman’s “Right Before I Go” is not just a play; it’s a movement, a mirror to society, penned by a writer whose work has resonated in the hearts of millions. With Zimmerman’s narrative voice leading the charge, the play will feature Tampa Bay actors and a cast of local celebrities, including Chief Meteorologist Denis Philips, evening news anchor/mental health reporter Wendy Ryan, Tampa Bay Lighting assistant coach Rob Zettler, Former Miss Florida USA and Miss World USA, journalist Chloe Cabera, publisher 83 Degrees Diane Egner, CEO The Crissi Center, Clara Reynolds, military vet and motivational speaker, Donald Dowridge Jr, and more.

The staged reading will be directed by Karla Hartley, Artistic Producing Director at Stageworks, ensuring a night of theatrical excellence. Following the play, a talkback session with the Crisis Center and other mental health experts will provide a platform for vital conversation, and the evening will conclude with dessert and live music by Life Amplified SPECTACULAR prom singers by the piano in the center’s lobby.

A portion of all ticket sales of this event will benefit the Crisis Center during Suicide Awareness Prevention Month. “A Celebration of the Power of the Arts” is a testament to the transformative power of theatre and storytelling.

Attending ‘Right Before I Go’ as part of Powerstories’ “Celebration of the Power of the Arts” is essential in supporting the vital conversation about mental health and our ongoing efforts to address critical social issues through theatre. This powerful play about suicide, recovery, and hope not only raises awareness but also fosters understanding and healing within our community. Your presence helps lift the veil surrounding suicide, enabling us to discuss mental health openly and without judgment.

The ‘Celebration of the POWER of the Arts’ featuring ‘Right Before I Go’ is on September 20 and 21 at 7 pm at New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Rd, Tampa. Tickets are $40, $65, and $100. For tickets and more information, please visit www.powerstories.com/arts-celebration-2024 Powerstories is proudly supported by the Hillsborough County Board of Commissioners.