Pride Films and Plays benefit “Simply Sensational 2” Oct. 9, 2012 at Stage 773

Chicago’s best musical talent joins forces with singing sensation Kim Kuzma for an invigorating and kinetic evening in Simply Sensational 2.  The program will be performed in the thrust space of Stage 773, 1225 West Belmont, on Tuesday, October 9, 2012, and is once again sponsored by Michael A. Leppen.

The evening beings at 6 pm with appetizers and an open bar with champagne, wine, beer, and soft drinks.  The program begins at 7 pm, and includes selections from Bailiwick Chicago’s Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson, Theo Ubique’s Smokey Joe’s Café, company members from Chicago Shakepeare’s Sunday in the Park, the amazing male trio “With A Twist,” and much more.  At intermission, the bar reopens, and guests are welcome to sample the dessert buffet provided by J and L Catering, provided through the generosity of Michael A. Leppen.

Tickets for Simply Sensational 2 are $50 for VIP reserved center section seating, and $25 for general admission.  Door prizes of tickets, dinners, and gift certificates will also be raffled off during the evening.  The evening benefits Pride Films and Plays’ upcoming season which includes the world premieres of At The Flash and Under A Rainbow Flag, and a 20th anniversary revival of Beautiful Thing.

Kim Kuzma has thrilled audiences around the globe, and makes her first Chicago performance since the Gay Games in 2006.  Her powerhouse voice and trademark witty banter has “packed the room” at Vancouver’s Outgames and Gay Whistler Ski Week.  If you visit Puerto Vallarta, you may have heard her perform at The Palm or Club Manana, and she has performed at countless Pride events in locations such as Toronto, Vancouver, Seattle, San Francisco, Portland, and Las Vegas.  She has performed alongside Jennifer Holliday, Martha Wash, Thelma Houston, Janice Robinson, Lea DeLaria, Sandra Bernhard, Alan Cummings, and the fabulous Amy Armstrong.

Respected by musicians, critics, and fans alike, Kim brings sass, high energy, wit, and an amazing vocal ability to the stage.  From classic dance faves and R&B to her signature original material, Kim’s hypnotizing stage presence and electrifying vocal range grabs the audience from the start and takes listeners on a musical joyride that always leaves the crowd roaring for more.

“With A Twist” is composed of local singers Kevin Bishop, Steve Kimbrough, and Paul Motondo, with musical arrangements and direction by the incomparable Nick Sula.  Come hear songs you know and love in three-part harmony.  Imagine The Andrew Sisters meet The Backstreet Boys with some Lady Gaga and Peggy Lee thrown in for fun.  It’s twisted!!!!!

For tickets to Simply Sensational 2 visit www.brownpapertickets.com.