Who: Thespian Troupe #5464

What:  20th Annual Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS Gala

Where: North Penn High School Auditorium

When: Friday, February 22nd at 7 PM

Why: BC/EFA began as the Broadway community’s response to help combat AIDS. North Penn High School was the first high school in America that began fundraising efforts for the cause back in 1999. The annual gala continues those efforts and remains one of North Penn’s most popular traditions. It is an evening of performances by the cast of Mamma Mia!, casts of the middle schools upcoming shows, and performances by individuals and groups from around NPSD!

“North Penn was the first high school to host a BC/EFA night of the arts gala and this year is the 20th anniversary. All the money raised goes to the BC/EFA foundation where it is used to help people with HIV/AIDS with any of their medical needs. Overall it’s a great night and a fun opportunity to see some amazing performances and help a great cause,” voiced Thespian Troupe #5464 President Sammi Stec. 

“The tradition for thespian troupes from across the nation raising money for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS began 20  years ago in the North Penn High School Auditorium. The brain child of Ryan Williams to fulfill his graduation project, the evening was begun as a Gala with a variety of singing and acting performances with a Silent Auction of Broadway memorabilia. Ryan and his fellow Thespian Troupe 5464 officers, cabinet members, and members raised the first high school funds for BC/EFA.  The idea was spread to the Pennsylvania State Thespian Conference and to other PA Thespian Troupes . . . and then, through the Educational Theatre Association, parent organization to the International Thespian Society . . . to thespian troupes across the nation. As of February 2019, NPHS Thespian Troupe is closing in on $85,000 raised with the thespians across the America pushing the $2 million dollar mark!  I couldn’t be prouder of our North Penn students over the past 20 years who have given their time and talents to helping those in need. They are leaders in empathy and compassion and in putting on a great show! The evening is uplifting and joyous with performances by middle and high school students – and not just the regular Theatre kids but the Dance Team, JROTC drill team, art students, and many others! No tickets are necessary.  A $5 donation that goes directly to BC/EFA is suggested,” added North Penn High School Theatre Director Andrea Roney.