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FRIENDS Ready for Annual Variety Show Fundraiser: FRIENDS ROCKS
By Missy Ruzicka
Who’s in need of a fun night out?
Even better, how about a unique fun night out that’s also a fundraiser? Well, you are in luck; our FRIENDS of Broomfield are hosting their 16th annual variety show, FRIENDS Rocks -Through the Decades in just a few weeks! This amazing “Journey” from the 50s to today’s rock bands will be premiering at the Alamo Draft House in Westminster on October 17 at 4:30 p.m.
FRIENDS is dedicated to enhancing communities by creating opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through an innovative and person centered approach. The annual variety show is just one way that the organization raises funds to support its core programs.
FRIENDS started their variety show back in 2006 with five participants, volunteers, and entertainers from the community. Since then, it has grown into a much-anticipated event where FRIENDS participants sing, dance, and have a blast showcasing their talents. Over the years they have enjoyed putting on many fantastic shows like; Tribute to Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Keeping it Reel (movie theme), and their favorite, The Greatest Showman, where the participants really connected to the show, but especially the empowering Oscar nominated song “This is Me.” 2020 proved challenging for everyone, but how do you put on a show during these unprecedented times that keeps everyone safe while not disappointing anyone? Just like school, work meetings, and family gatherings, they went virtual by recording the acts outside and then putting together an amazing show online. 2021 is still challenging, but putting on a rock concert for us to enjoy on the big screen is brilliant and unique! Unlike other rock concerts, guests of this show will be able to order their own dinners with drinks (sold separately) to provide a complete fun night out on the town!
When first presented with this year’s theme, not all the participants were fans of rock music, thinking it was all heavy metal and screaming, but have since come to really enjoy the sounds of steel guitars and pounding drums. Music has definitely changed since the 1950s and some friends are discovering that the music from the 80s is their favorite. FRIENDS Rocks - Through the Decades will treat us with singing and dancing from the greats like; Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, Bon Jovi, Guns & Roses, Queen, ZZ Top, Aerosmith, and Journey.
This event is so much more than just a fundraising opportunity. The variety show has always been about the FRIENDS participants having fun and enjoying the spotlight as they share their talents as a way to thank the Broomfield community that has encouraged and supported them year after year. Whether preparing for a solo act, a group number or an instrumental piece, everyone from the participants to volunteers has a blast at rehearsals learning new songs and dances for the big show. What a great way to do something you love while making a little money for their social programs like Women’s, Men’s and FRIENDS’ Night Out, and Fun with FRIENDS activities. FRIENDS fundraising goal for this year is $10,000 through ticket sales and votes for best performances.
