Grand Rapids' Hottest Talent Collaborates to Benefit Make-A-Wish®

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (November 17, 2008) – An Aquinas College student organization, AQ STARS for the Make-A-Wish® Foundation of Michigan - which supports wish-granting for children with life-threatening medical conditions – is pleased to announce their premiere event, “A Cabaret for Wishes,” an evening of entertainment featuring more than 15 of Grand Rapids’ finest entertainers, set to take place at 8:00 p.m. on Monday, November 24, 2008 at the Wege Ballroom on the campus of Aquinas College.

AQ STARS is a student organization at Aquinas College in their fourth year of existence on campus. Since becoming an official organization in the summer of 2005, the group has been planning this event annually. In addition, several of the event’s performers have spent months preparing for their performance.

The evening’s roster of performances consists of a variety of individuals, from well-known veterans like Kathy Wagner and Kelly Carey, to pre-teen Amanda Wright, who has headlined shows like "Junie B. Jones" at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and sang the national anthem for the West Michigan Whitecaps. In addition, two preview numbers will be shared from the upcoming production of The Wild Party at Actors' Theatre, set to open in early December. Chris Carnevale and Jana Veldheer will perform the fun-loving "Two of a Kind" while cast principles Stephen Grey, Aubry Talbott, Christopher Carter and Lynne Brown-Tepper will present the haunting and beautiful ballad "Poor Child." More than twelve selections will be shared throughout the evening by other well-known performers like Sarah LaJoye, Rob Karel, Chris Flowers, Andy Schneider, and more. Scott Patrick Bell will be on the piano. Hosting the event will be Calvin College student and conquering childhood cancer advocate Brooke Buikema, who holds the title of Miss Spirit of the State 2009, and one other, yet to be announced.

As guests enjoy entertainment amidst the intimate ambiance that will feature decorations provided by Grand Rapids’ florists, they will snack on appetizers and desserts while browsing and bidding at a Silent Auction. All proceeds will benefit the Make-A-Wish® Foundation of Michigan.

Tickets can be purchased at the door for $10 general admission, and $5 for students with an I.D.