Broadway Stars Come out for Annual Benefit to Help Foster Kids Get Adopted

Broadway theaters are normally dark on Monday nights — but not tonight — at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre, the home of "Kinky Boots."  Our Frank DiLella has the story on a starry theater benefit that took place this evening, raising awareness for some young folks in need.

Some of Broadway's finest showed up on at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre on Monday night to do what they do best , lift up their voices, at the second annual "Voices for the Voiceless: Stars For Foster Kids Benefit."

The evening, which was co-sponsored by NY1's parent company Charter Communications, was the brainchild of Broadway personality Seth Rudetsky and his husband James Wesley. The event  was created to shine a spotlight on the not for profit "You Gotta Believe" an organization dedicated to finding permanent families and homes for foster youth ages 13 or older.

"These kids just need adult figures they can talk to — people need to know that these kids need adult figures in their lives — and I want more people to know that," Rudetsky said.

Two-time Tony Award winning actress Chita Rivera opened the show with her signature number from the Broadway musical "Chicago," "All That Jazz."

"They wanted me to open with jazz, and I think I remember it," Rivera joked.

Throughout the evening, first-hand stories about life in the foster system were presented.  Justice Henry shared his story and how he was recently adopted by two lesbian parents.

"I was adopted at 21, aging out of foster care," Henry said. "It feels like security and that someone's there for you."

Actress Rosie Perez lent her support to You Gotta Believe because it hits close to home, her home.

"I was a foster kid myself," Perez said "I was a ward of New York State first. I know what it's like to be in the system where people don't want to take care of older kids. So, that's why You Gotta Believe is so important to me. I know what those kids are going through."

And of course - all proceeds from the show will go towards the organization You Gotta Believe.  For more information on the not for profit visit its website.