Because of the ongoing stagehands strike, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS' annual Gypsy of the Year competition, which had been scheduled for December 3 and 4, has been postponed to December 17 and 18. Last year's event, the culmination of weeks of fundraising, brought in more than $3 million, which accounts for 25 percent of the yearly operating budget of BC/EFA. The 2007 Gypsy of the Year will be held at a theater to be announced.
Fundraising is continuing at the seven Broadway shows still running as well as at many off-Broadway shows and national tours. BC/EFA supporters can also donate via a "Team-Raiser" internet effort at BroadwayCares.org. In addition to general donations, donors can click on a show logo and make donations in honor of a particular show. These funds will be counted toward every show's final total at the Gypsy of the Year competition.
Tom Viola, executive director of BC/EFA said in a statement, "With the work stoppage in effect, we have received phone calls from people asking what they can do to help BC/EFA. With a vital part of our grant-making ability at stake, we have launched 'Team-Raiser' to help our efforts during this time. We are deeply moved by the support and realize that we are not alone, as the entire theatrical community is being affected by the work stoppage. We along with the rest of the Broadway community eagerly anticipate a resolution to the stoppage."
