Skokie Theater Director Stranded By Maria Organizes Fundraiser

SKOKIE, IL — Wendy Kaplan witnessed the devastation of Hurricane Maria firsthand as she spent 10 days stranded in Puerto Rico. She returned home emotionally shaken and and physically sick but determined to help those still suffering on the island. Kaplan, the executive director of the Skokie Theatre, has planned a fundraising performance for hurricane relief set for Friday night. It's called "Skokie Gives Back: No One is an Island" and it's scheduled for 8 p.m. at Skokie Theatre, 7924 Lincoln Ave.

The situation remains dire in Puerto Rico with roads demolished, power lines down and cell service severely limited. Water is tainted, food is spoiled and there is no assurance yet there will be enough money available to save lives, let alone rebuild.

Large quantities of standing water increase the possibility of outbreaks of mosquito-borne illnesses, like Zika virus and Dengue fever. And while there are many calls for and assistance, the daunting task of rebuilding the United States Commonwealth requires vast financial resources, a need that is exacerbated by the island’s poverty.

All proceeds from this event will be donated to United for Puerto Rico, an initiative by the First Lady of Puerto Rico, Beatriz Rosselló, in collaboration with the private sector, with the purpose of providing aid and support to those affected in Puerto Rico by Hurricane Irma and Hurricane María. The entirety of money donated to United for Puerto Rico go to helping the victims affected by these natural disasters in Puerto Rico.

The evening of reflection and song will include performances of songs expressing emotional responses to the extreme suffering that American citizens in Puerto Rico have been going through.

In addition, numerous acclaimed Chicago theater companies have donated tickets to their performance to be raffled off.

Performers will include Judy Rossignuolo-Rice, Bernard Rice, Carla Gordon, Russ Goeltenbodt, Jan Slavin and Denise McGowan Tracy.

Also performing will be Carmen Severino, a singer of Puerto Rican heritage, "Skokie Idol" finalist Julianne Epperson Arvizu and Takesha Meshé Kizart from Sister Africa. Mark Burnell is music director.

Tickets to the benefit are available for a minimum donation of $50.

» More information and tickets via The Skokie Theatre

Event info:

Skokie Gives Back: No One is an Island—A Puerto Rico Hurricane Relief Fundraiser
8 p.m., Friday, Oct. 27

_{Top photo: Aftermath of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico | Credit: Darren McGee, via the Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo}