Benanti (Most Happy Fella, Gypsy, Women on the Verge), De Jesus (In the Heights, La Cage aux Folles), Buonopane (Cinderella, "30 Rock") and Kilgore (Motown, Hair) join the previously announced Dan Fogler (Spelling Bee), Natalie Joy Johnson (Legally Blonde), Lauren Worsham (Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder), Jill Paice (Matilda), Carrie Manolakos (Mamma Mia!), Aidan Gemme (Waiting for Godot, Mary Poppins), Jennifer Laura Thompson (Nice Work If You Can Get It, Wicked, Urinetown), Joe Iconis and Family ("Smash," Bloodsong of Love, The Black Suits), Anastacia McCleskey (Violet, The Book of Mormon, Hair), Jake Lucas (Newsies), Sydney Lucas (Fun Home) and Metropolitan Opera star Joyce DiDonato.
Shakina Nayfack will host the 7 PM evening of song.
The benefit and the foundation it supports were created following the attempted suicide of 11-year-old North Carolina student Michael Morones, who was severely bullied by his fellow classmates for his love of the My Little Pony television series. Morones, who attempted to hang himself, was found in time to save his life, but is currently undergoing intensive rehab due to the severity of the brain damage he sustained. He will need ongoing managed care for the rest of his life.
The mission of the Michael Morones Foundation is to educate communities about youth suicide prevention and the effects of bullying.
Concert tickets are priced $40–$90. In addition, VIP tickets, priced $150-$500, are also available. Visit broadwaybattlesbullying.org for ticketing information. To learn how to donate to the Michael Morones Foundation, visit michaelmorones.org.