University of Memphis theater students are showing Broadway just how much they care about the fight against AIDS.
Fred Mertz, The University's unofficial 'sorority' of about 100 theater students, stands as the only college-level program affiliated with Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.
"I was amazed and floored that no universities were involved," said theater and dance publicity and promotions director Alice Berry. "Broadway Cares is affiliated with hundreds of high schools and theater groups nationally. I was so excited to hear Fred Mertz wanted to help."
Established in 1975, Fred Mertz has supported the department through various fundraisers and events each year. This, however, is the first time the program has lent a hand to Broadway.
"When we took over, we were looking for something to get into," said Mertz's secretary of treasuries Joe Sevier. "The last presidents didn't get into much. This was a good cause and it's theater-related."
In a letter to Fred Mertz president Julia Hinson, Broadway Cares producer Joe Norton said it's nice that others are doing something to help.
Hinson said it felt really good to know Mertz's contribution was recognized.
"It gives us something to work for other than ourselves," Hinson
said. "Even our piddley $300 is worth more than $300. It's important that our specific community is doing something. It gives Fred Mertz a purpose."
Like Broadway Cares, Mertz holds performances and celebrity auctions to feed their cause.
Each year Mertz holds a silent auction and its version of the Tony Awards the Mertz's. On board this year are Valentine-grams, a date-auction and a poetry/playwright contest.
In past years, proceeds from these events have helped fund the department in needy areas such as stereos and lights. Playing a new role, Fred Mertz hopes to blend the directions of its funds in the future.
"You know, many in this profession, not to generalize, but many are struck with the disease," Berry said. "It's a good idea for our community to do something. It gives us pride in who we are."
For more about the efforts of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, go to www.BCEFA.org.
