Theatre Within's 30th Annual John Lennon Tribute Features All-Star Lineup

NEW YORK, Sept. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- For anyone who has heard the music of John Lennon, there is most likely a favorite song or two that touches their heart. To honor the memory of John Lennon and celebrate his music, his passion for peace and his love for New York City, Theatre Within will present its 30th Annual John Lennon Tribute on Friday, November 12th at 8pm at the Beacon Theatre in New York City.

The concert, benefiting the Playing For Change Foundation (PFCF), is a once-in-a-lifetime gathering of artists who will come together to celebrate the life, music and creative spirit of John Lennon. The all-star lineup of performers span nearly four generations, ranging from legendary music icons Jackson Browne, Patti Smith and Cyndi Lauper to acclaimed artists, Aimee Mann, Keb' Mo', Joan Osborne, Martin Sexton, Shelby Lynne, Taj Mahal, Meshell Ndegeocello, Alejandro Escovedo, the Playing For Change Band, The Kennedys, Vusi Mahlasela, Rich Pagano of the Fab Faux, YouTube sensation Chris Bliss, Wendy Osserman Dance and the Tribute's co-creator and MAD Magazine Senior Editor, Joe Raiola.

Tickets for the Tribute will go on-sale on Monday, September 20th at 10am and will be available on BeaconTheatre.com, Ticketmaster.com or by calling 866-858-0008. Ticket prices are $304.50 for VIP Seats, $179.50, $139.50, $99.50 and $79.50. Additional information is available at LennonTribute.org, which features an online press kit and photos, videos from past Tributes, a Tribute blog and original exclusive content for John Lennon fans everywhere.

Theatre Within, a not-for-profit performing arts presenter dedicated to producing shows to benefit outstanding charities and social causes, has produced The Annual John Lennon Tribute since 1981, shortly after Lennon's death. The Tribute is the longest running event of its kind and the only ongoing tribute show in the country to have earned the support of Yoko Ono.

Continuing Theatre Within's long-standing tradition of raising money for charity, proceeds from this year's Tribute will support the Playing For Change Foundation (PFCF), whose global mission is to promote peace and positive change through the universal language of music. By building music schools in countries that suffer from extreme poverty, the Playing For Change Foundation provides resources and opportunities to these communities in need, empowering them with the ability to establish thriving and sustainable economies. Additionally, the Playing For Change Foundation, with the support of Theatre Within, will also launch its worldwide "Power to the People" campaign in November. This campaign aims to raise awareness and funds for the Playing For Change Foundation by aligning with John Lennon's vision of peace and unity.

"John's music and message continue to be a great inspiration to people all around the world, but he holds a special place in the hearts of New Yorkers," noted Joe Raiola, who in addition to producing the Tribute, will be performing in it for the 30th consecutive year. "John and his music still live on, and gathering in his memory and honor is a great joy."

"We are thrilled to participate as Theatre Within's charity partner for the 30th Annual John Lennon Tribute," said Whitney Kroenke, co-founder and executive director of the Playing For Change Foundation. "John Lennon was a hugely inspirational artist and a humanitarian of epic proportions and we are honored that Yoko has given Playing For Change Foundation her blessing, as it is our mission to inspire, connect and bring peace to the world through music."

ABOUT THEATRE WITHIN

Theatre Within is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit Performing Arts Presenter dedicated to producing benefit shows for outstanding charities and important social causes. By promoting the performing arts as public service, Theatre Within brings artists together to make a positive difference in their communities and around the world. Theatre Within is inspired by the humanitarian efforts of George Harrison, John Lennon, Arlo Guthrie, Willie Nelson, Bono and countless other socially conscious performers who have been the driving force behind charity events. Learn more at http://theatrewithin.org.

ABOUT PLAYING FOR CHANGE FOUNDATION

The Playing For Change Foundation (PFCF) is dedicated to the fundamental idea that peace and change are possible through the universal language of music. PFCF is devoted to connecting the world through music by providing resources (including schools, supplies, and educational programs) to musicians and their communities around the world. The PFCF currently has programs in Nepal, Mali, Ghana, South Africa and Rwanda, and continues to expand its reach to communities in need. The mentorship and guidance the students receive from musicians and teachers provides a strong foundation for them to grow and thrive.  Learn more at www.playingforchange.org.  

SOURCE Theatre Within