The nonprofit Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation will celebrate five years of connecting children to the performing arts with an afternoon of inspiration and entertainment at its “Let Them Dream Big Concert,” May 22.
Children whose lessons in music, dance, and theater are funded through the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation will take the stage, along with the AOK Performance Group sponsored by the Grunin Foundation, studio partners and special guest performers.
The celebration takes place at The Vogel at the Count Basie Center for the Performing Arts in Red Bank. Doors open at 2 p.m., Sunday, May 22, with showtime at 3 p.m.
Special guests include vocalist Layonne Holmes (Motor City Revue Motown Tribute Band, Jon Bon Jovi & The Kings of Suburbia, Matt O’Ree Band, and Tim McLoone & The Shirleys). Also performing will be EĐĐIE, the winner of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation’s 2021 Step into the Spotlight Soiree & Talent Competition; the duo DOMENICO & Viiq; and a ballroom dance by the Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Marlboro.
The Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation is dedicated to connecting youngsters in need, ages 7-18, with performing arts studios and instructors and directly funding 100% of the costs for them to attend ongoing vocal, instrumental, acting, or dance lessons close to their homes.
The organization also funds or supplies items such as dance shoes, dancewear, musical instruments, and other resources to help children succeed, affirming its belief that financial barriers should not limit creative expression.
Tickets to “Let Them Dream Big” cost $25 to $35 and can be purchased online at The Count Basie Theater. For information on becoming a sponsor or purchasing an ad in the event playbill, contact Jodi Grinwald at jodi@applaudourkids.org.
