Dame Maggie Smith and Noma Dumezweni Help Raise Money for Struggling Performers
Dame Maggie Smith and Noma Dumezweni were among the many theater stars who took part in a holiday charity dinner hosted by Acting for Others. The organization supports the arts by raising money for performers and theater staff struggling for a variety of reasons, including illness, injury, disability, or supporting a child with special needs.
The thought behind Acting for Others is for theaters and performers to use their talents to raise money for their own less fortunate colleagues. What’sOnStage reports that the fundraiser demonstrated the charity’s mission by having actual theater stars work the event as well as perform for guests. So while some stars, including Maggie Smith, simply attended as guests, Noma Dumezweni was one of many volunteers who worked the event as bartenders, waiters, or coat-takers.
Along with a dinner and performances, the event also held an auction with some incredible big-ticket items, including VIP tickets to the Olivier Awards and a walk-on part in Les Miserables.
The event, which was held at the Ivy in London, raised a record-breaking £150,000 for Acting for Others, a part of the Combined Theatrical Charities Appeals Council. Acting for Others raises money collectively for 15 separate theatrical charities and applies funds where they are needed the most.
Acting for Others raises most of its money from bucket collections held at the end of October, when theaters across the country put on performances and encourage audience members to donate. They occasionally host other events similar to the dinner at the Ivy, as well as concerts, clothing sales, and bake-offs, to raise extra funds.
If you would like to support the cause along with these Harry Potter actors or learn more about the charity and those it benefits, you can do so by visiting the Acting for Others website.
