Ignite the Nite Benefit Concert Goes Cabaret, features Community Leaders to tell Story of Adult Mentorship for Naperville Youth
The sixth annual Ignite the Nite concert benefitting Naperville's KidsMatter features a number student performers joined by some widely recognizable adult performers from the Naperville community in a dinner theatre cabaret that tells stories of youth challenge and adult mentorship that is so critical to young people's success. The cabaret, to be held at Elements at Water Street on Saturday April 8, raises funds for KidsMatter's programs and initiatives helping kids and families manage stress and say no to destructive behaviors and yes to endless possibilities.
The program will feature songs and stories by players including City Councilwoman Becky Anderson, Police Commander Ken Parcel, Springbrook Elementary Teacher Stuart Vance, YMCA Executive Director RJ Bartels, District 203 Director of Community Relations Julie Carlsen, Owner of Naperville Moms Network & Chiropractor Dr. Cathy Subber, 360 Youth Services Development Director Jason Altenbern, Third Party Pet COO Adam Stachowiak, and Good Shepherd Church Senior Pastor Greg Wenhold. Shannon Greene Robb of Arranmore Arts is on keyboard.
Student performers from Naperville's School of Performing Arts include Eleanor Giacalone, Chloe Hild, Grace Johnson, Kyle Halford, Ronan McCarter, Audrey Hare, Anna Snyder, Anna Bramlett, Ingrid Lowery, Seven Acosta and SPAcappella, the School's a cappella ensemble.
The Benet Academy Jazz Band will entertain during cocktails and provide additional music for the cabaret. The event will include a silent Fund-a-Need auction and raffle. The evening begins with cocktails at 6 pm, dinner at 7 and a special post-show entertainment after-party.
The evening will honor the Naperville Police and Fire Departments and Chief Bob Marshall and Chief Mark Puknaitis for their efforts on behalf of youth, including first response, prevention programs and education. The program will also recognize District 203 and 204 High School Principals who are on the front lines supporting youth every day.
"We know for a fact that adult mentors, including parents, teachers, coaches, pastors, counselors and community leaders make a huge difference in the development of our young people," says Executive Director IdaLynn Wenhold. "Given the stressors young people and their families face today, it's critical that we work together to share the skills and support that can circumvent bullying, depression and anxiety, drug and alcohol abuse and suicide. Our young people depend on all of us to help."
KidsMatter is a Naperville-based not-for-profit organization that equips youth and families with tools to manage the stress of everyday life through dynamic school and community programs, practical education, resources and youth recognition. We harness the power of partnership with parents, educators and an extensive network of community resources to help kids and families thrive.
Tickets for cocktails, dinner, cabaret and after-show entertainment are $175. Tables for 10 can be reserved for $1700. For tickets and information contact KidsMatter at www.kidsmatter2us.org or call 630-527-6562.
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