Spotlight Indy will bring its 20th-anniversary benefit show to Clowes Memorial Hall at Butler University on May 19. A grand total of 17 organizations will come together for the one-night only spectacle, which raises money for HIV/AIDS education and prevention efforts in Indianapolis, Marion County, and statewide. The performers and groups will go on in five- to eight-minute segments in quick succession. Don’t take a lavatory break during any of these.
Indianapolis Men’s Chorus
“Turn it Off” from The Book of Mormon
If you’re looking for a little taste of The Book of Mormon before the award-winning musical comes to Indy on June 17, IMC’s take on the musical’s showstopper is a must-see during Spotlight this year. These men deliver a great blend of quirks, hilarity, and solid vocals.
Tasha Jones
“Dear God” original poetry by Tasha Jones
Performing poetry on stage is a tall order. Not only does the artist have to deliver with only the company of a mic, but also they have to keep your emotional interest from start to finish. Jones definitely has the ability, as she’s opened a Snoop Dogg show and toured with Lauryn Hill. This mother, artist, and motivational speaker is worth your time and attention.
Doug Dilling
“Bring Him Home” from Les Miserables
Dilling is a real-estate professional by day and seasoned vocalist by night. As he performs Spotlight’s most poignant song, with lyrics such as “If I die, let me die. Let him live, bring him home,” you’re sure to feel the goosebumps and tears rush in.
Kenyetta Dance Company and Nicholas Owens Dance Company
Messing Around Music of Ray Charles
I’m willing to bet soul-music legend Ray Charles never expected his music to be the backbone of a contemporary modern-dance company. But Nicholas Owens has done just that. After watching the moving piece, you may never listen to Ray Charles the same way again.
NoExit Performance
“The Sermon,” a scene from Swan Lake
This fearless theater group will show off a scene from an adaptation of the classic ballet Swan Lake. Indianapolis-based artist Tommy Lewey developed the piece for the modern era involving actors and poets to further tell the story of the princess-turned-swan. This performance is sure to be one of the most refreshing of the night.
Here’s the entire lineup.
Clowes Memorial Hall, 4602 Sunset Ave., 317-940-6444, spotlightindy.org. Tickets $25, $50, $150 at box office and Ticketmaster locations.
