Reminder: Bruce Vilanch Headlines BGMC’sCrescendo EDGE Boston May 8

Edge Boston
Oscars Funnyman Bruce Vilanch Headlines BGMC’s ’Crescendo’
by Kilian Melloy
Monday May 3, 2010

The Boston Gay Men’s Chorus is set to present its annual fun-filled gala and fund-raiser, Crescendo, this coming Saturday night, May 8. The evening begins at 6:30 p.m. and rollicks for hours with Oscars head writer Bruce Vilanch headlining the entertainment.

A BGMC press release notes, “Bruce has written material for Bette, Lily, Whoopi and many of Hollywood’s biggest stars. In addition to his own stand-up, Bruce wowed Broadway as Harvey Fierstein’s replacement in Hairspray. Bruce will dish the dirt all night and entertain you for the finale of Crescendo.”

There will also be hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction jam packed with big ticket items like Broadway shows, a VIP trip to Hollywood to see an episode of Ellen being taped, and a karaoke party for 30, and smaller–but unique–baskets prepared by the members of the Chorus themselves: everything from a “Dirty Boy” gift basket to “A Big Basket of Bruce!”

The release notes, “The BGMC has provided over $275,000 to support HIV, civil rights, and LGBT Youth causes. We have taken community outreach concerts to more than 60 towns and cities across New England, singing about our lives for over 55,000 first time attendees. Our award-winning High School Outreach Project has changed hearts and minds at schools across the Commonwealth. None of this would be possible without the funds raised at Crescendo.

“Ticket sales from our Boston concerts only cover 45% of our annual costs,” the release continues. “In this time of declining government, corporate and foundation support, we need your support at Crescendo to continue to be your voice of pride. During this 2009-10 season we have been operating on an austerity budget that is 20% lower than previous years, but we have not yet had to sacrifice artistic quality or our community outreach programs because you have been there for us.

“Join us for Crescendo and enjoy an evening of fun that also does good. If you aren’t able to attend, please consider making a tax deductible donation equal to your ticket price.”

“Crescendo tickets are $75 per person,” text at the BGMA website reads. “A limited number of VIP Tickets at $125 include an exclusive pre-Crescendo cocktail reception with Bruce Vilanch hosted by the BGMC’s Board President.”

Crescendo kicks off at 6:30 p.m. at the Royale Nightclub (formerly The Roxy), located at 279 Tremont Street in Boston.