Only the Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation could complete our weekend, with Help Is on the Way for the Holidays VII on Sunday night benefiting the Pediatric HIV/AIDS Program of Children's Hospital Oakland, Maitri, and Project Inform. The evening began with a silent auction in the lobby of the War Memorial Building, bustling with well-dressed supporters and first-time attendees, leading to an incredible cast of entertainment in Herbst Theatre. Executive Producers Joe Seiler and Ken Henderson opened the show by presenting entertainer Sharon McNight with a special award of recognition for her longterm commitment to the AIDS struggle. Time and again, this home-grown diva has willingly offered her music and comedy for countless benefits and fundraisers. Sunday night, she received appropriate recognition.
The first performers were Tia Riebling and Michael Lynch , husband-and-wife team from the Broadway production of Les Miserables, who tenderly delivered a David Friedman holiday classic. Leslie Jordan of Sordid Lives and Will & Grace fame had the audience in stitches with seasonal reminiscences laced with a decided lisp. When we caught up with him backstage, he hinted of an exciting new television project in the works.
The incredible Wesla Whitfield mesmerized all with a gentle but meaningful a cappella ballad. Her delicate attention to lyrics is magical. Pierre-Francois Vilanoba and Nutnaree Pipt-Suksun of the San Francisco Ballet presented a stirring world premiere pas de deux set to the music of Johann Sebastian Bach. Catte Adams teased with the playful "I'm Always Drunk in San Francisco," Lisa Vroman demonstrated her soaring musical artistry with "Sweet Little Jesus Boy," and Shawn Ryan showcased his sensual voice with "My Simple Christmas Wish," accompanied by the piano mastery of Kelly Park . Cast member of the Wicked national tour Adam Lambert's powerful interpretation of "O Holy Night" brought the audience to its feet. Local favorite Sharon McNight, celebrating her 25th year in cabaret, delighted her fans with a hilarious Wizard of Oz medley, accompanied by the immensely talented Joan Edgar.
Holiday events are incomplete without the social whirl of the lobby. During the intermission, we caught up with Empresses Marlena and Sheba!, both swathed in sparkling black gowns, Emperor Buster Boxx , Dr. Jerry Goldstein and Tommy Taylor , Carol Christie , Josephine Lott , Stu Smith, John Newmar, Blair Shepard, and Tim Gaskin . The champagne flowed, and the silent auction bids inched up.
The second half began with a rousing performance by the Barbary Coast Cloggers, followed by the earthy Tim Hockenberry, the engaging Davis Gaines, and the beautiful Stefanie Powers. Much-loved former Supreme Mary Wilson claimed the stage in a blaze of red satin and sequins as she gave new meaning to "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." The dynamic and stunning Susan Anton amazed the audience with her vocal control and sensitive delivery. Our moments with her backstage over face powder and hairspray revealed a truly beautiful lady inside and out. The final soloist was local American Idol legendary success LaToya London . A warm "White Christmas" finale reunited the entire cast and brought the house down on an incredible performance.
The party continued at a VIP reception in the Green Room with gregarious Houston Allred at the piano. We shared audience reactions with the BAR's own Tom Horn, Nob Hill fundraiser Bella Farrow, Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation's Al Treuter, publicity guru Lawrence Helman, bon vivant Stephen Valentino and his charming mother Ina Mae, real estate tycoon Joel Goodrich, lighting and sound wizard Randy Schiller, Grand Duchess Davida , Wells Fargo's Mario Diaz , and the Nob Hill Gazette's Lois Lehrman. Musical Director David Galligan was beaming with pride as admirers surrounded him. Once again, the Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation raised significant funds for hard-working beneficiaries while delivering world-class entertainment.
Whatever you do, don't miss Impossible Productions' Emperor Norton, playing now through January 29, at the Dark Room Theatre, 2263 Mission St. From what we hear, the show is a wonderful treat, and you can expect to see various Imperials in the audience. A final plug for Songs of the Season at the Empire Plush Room on Mon., Dec. 19 (Sunday is sold out) benefiting the AIDS Emergency Fund. Let us entertain you!