The 1960s and 1970s are back. Well, at least they are at Summer in the City on June 17 to benefit Cadence, a local theater, film, TV and educational community organization.
Held at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, the fundraiser features live music (ft. Deau Eyes, and Me And the Moon), an auction and raffle as well as costume and dance contests. You’ll also have a chance to learn popular dances from that time period, led by Anthony Cosby, Jr.
Everyone is encouraged to dig in their closets and find clothing from the 60’s or 70’s to wear — think bell-bottom jeans, go-go boots, polyester shirts, jumpsuits and platform shoes.
Fundraisers like Summer in the City are important to theatre companies like Cadence. “They help expand our reach and bring together all ages in celebration of our rich, artistic community here in RVA,” says Laine Satterfield, program director and director of education at Cadence. “We want more people to know about all the programs we offer and how they can get involved.”
Now celebrating its 15th year, Cadence is distinct in the theatre community. Not only does it produce contemporary works, but it also develops talent and presents uplifting theater, and film works that “challenge the mind and honor both our individuality and shared humanity,” says Satterfield.
“Our educational programs serve all ages and range from outreach programs to acting training for all ages, from film works to playwriting and screenwriting initiatives,” she adds.
Cadence has expanded its community reach over the years. Proceeds from the fundraiser will help support the many educational, theatrical, film and community programs for youth and adults that Cadence offers, including Stage Write College Prep and Workforce Readiness, Train Pre-Professional Acting Program, Pipeline New Works, The PSA Project, the Cadence Youth Cabaret, Sitelines BLM, Cue the Future and summer camps.
Looking ahead, Cadence hopes to add more full-time staff, offer a sleepaway theatre camp next summer, “increase our educational programming and add some senior initiatives. Also, a building of our own would be nice,” says Satterfield.
Satterfield, who is also a well-known actor in town, enjoys being part of the Cadence team.
“At the root of Cadence, there is love. Love for each other, the craft, our community and creativity,” she says. “From our board to our students to our staff, there is the sense of family and a real desire to uplift one another through relevant and important storytelling. I could not be more proud to work with this organization.”
The Summer in the City benefit on June 17, runs from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Hardwood Park Craft Brewery. Tickets are $50 and include admission, food and a drink ticket.
