My world has grown so much because I am a fan of Clay Aiken. I have learned so much about the music business, the pros and cons of being a celebrity, the importance of “People First” Language, and the fight for equality for all. I feel comfortable visiting Raleigh, North Carolina, New York City and other cities and know that even if I travel alone, I will always be with friends . I know more about The National Inclusion Project, GLAAD, GLSEN, GIVE A DAMN, UNICEF and BC/EFA.
I remember learning about BC/EFA in 2008. Clay Aiken was in the middle of his run in Spamalot and worked hard to earn money for the event. I remember seeing the line-up of fans that donated money to have their pictures taken with Clay and the other cast members. Clay let his fans know he wanted Spamalot to win, but 2nd place seems to be Clay’s spot! The competition raised a record 3.7 million dollars that year.
The 33rd Annual Easter Bonnet Competition was held this year on April 22 -23. The two-day, star-studded show featured hilarious original skits and songs, amazing dance numbers and, of course, extravagantly elaborate, custom-made bonnets.
This years Easter Bonnet Competition raised $6,594,778. This record-breaking number was raised by 69 Broadway, Off-Broadway and national touring productions. The overall fundraising award went to Hamilton – And Peggy. The award for the best presentation went to the cast of Off-Broadway’s, Fiddler on the Roof -v in Yiddish. At the end, the award for the best bonnet design went to “Come From Away”.
The first Easter Bonnet Competition was presented on the Saturday of Easter week in 1987 by the original cast of La Cage aux Folles between shows at the Palace Theatre. Ten Broadway shows created bonnets that were displayed in the lobby. A few hundred folks paid a dollar to attend and voted for their favorites by stuffing dollar bills into jars representing each show. They raised $17,138. It was an amazing accomplishment.
Do you remember when Clay Aiken and Hannah Waddingham sang The Prayer at the Broadway Cares – Easter Bonnet. I listened to the beautiful duet and couldn’t help laughing when they were surrounded by another member of the Spamalot cast! I hope you enjoy the following video of Clay and Hannah!(and friend).
I wish I could see this exciting show live. There is so much talent in the show!