Shining Studios Plans Concert To Fundraise For Suicide Prevention

PORT WASHINGTON, NY--Shining Studios, a Port Washington-based theatre arts center for children and teenagers, will hold a concert on Friday, May 31 at 8 p.m. at the Main Street Movie Theatre to raise awareness for suicide prevention.

The show, "The Best of Shining," is being held in honor of a Port Washington resident who took his own life at a young age, the identity of whom Shining Studios requested to remain anonymous for the family's privacy. As such, 50 percent of all ticket proceeds will be donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

"In light of recent events in our community, I think it's important to raise awareness about mental health, especially for young people," Kyle Savage, the founder and director of Shining Studios, told Patch. "It's been very touching to see how Port Washington has rallied together and how so many different people are connected in producing such a beautiful event. Shining Studios is so honored to be able to support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention for this initiative."

The concert will feature one song from every Shining Studios show across its four-year history. Port Washington children and teenagers aged 6-18 will deliver the performances. Shining Studios, recognized as Best Theatre Arts Center of 2019 through Bethpage's Best of Long Island, has been producing professional, full-scale children's musicals since 2015.

While the show starts at 8 p.m., a vendor showcase will kickoff the event at 6:30 p.m. A photo booth from Jodi's Events, face painting and a DJ/dance party will be some of the activities.

Local Port Washington restaurants will cater the event. Hana Japanese, Pepe Rosso, Louies, Sullivans Quay and Yummy Gyro will be serving the fare.

Ann Morrison, the director of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, will attend. Shining Studios is working closely in conjunction with Morrison and the foundation.

Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for children/students and are available to purchase on the Shining Studios homepage.