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Karen Akers Receives Lifetime Achievement Award at Singers Forum Benefit Gala on May 7

11^th Annual Fundraiser Supports Music Education in NYC

New York, NY, April 24, 2007 – On March 12, Singers Forum Foundation Artistic Director Don Rebic, announced that Broadway, concert and cabaret star Karen Akers would be among the honorees for the Foundation’s 11^th annual Andy Anselmo Achievement Awards. Presented at the Singers Forum’s annual benefit gala, the Awards honor excellence in the performing arts. The event also serves as the Foundation’s main fundraiser, supporting the school’s commitment to development and appreciation of the vocal arts for individuals of any age or level of experience and from all walks of life, providing vocal training for disadvantaged and at-risk New York area children and providing performances for the area’s elderly or home-bound.

Presented at the Singers Forum’s annual benefit gala, the Awards honor excellence in the performing arts. The awards ceremony will take place on Monday, May 7, 2007 at The Theatre of the Lighthouse International. The show is directed by Eric Michael Gillett and music directed by Mr. Rebic, and will feature Andy Anselmo, The Phillip A. Campanella Youth Scholarship Chorus, and performances by Ms. Baldwin and Ms. Tate. Singers Forum is honored to have Broadway and cabaret performer KT Sullivan, Back Stage Editor-at-Large Sherry Eaker, and noted New York Times journalist Stephen Holden presenting at the event. Confirmed guests include cabaret legend Julie Wilson, Broadway’s Terri Klausner, and the famous voice of movie musicals, Marni Nixon.

Ms. Akers, star of Broadway’s Grand Hotel and Nine, and appearing 4/17-5/12 at The Algonquin Hotel’s Oak Room, is the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award, previously awarded to Carol Channing, Tovah Feldshuh, and Mandy Patinkin, among others. Receiving the evening’s other top honors, the Andy Anselmo Achievement Awards, are Singers Forum students Stephanie Baldwin and Alexia Tate. The Andy Anselmo Achievement Award is given to an emerging professional vocal artist, along with a $1,000 scholarship for study at Singers Forum. The scholarship award winners were chosen from a group of students nominated by the faculty.

Ticket prices range from $250-$1000. For tickets and information about the event, please contact Alexia Tate at (212) 366-0541 ext. 211.