The company of “A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical” has announced an ongoing effort to support those affected by the tragedy that took place in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the early hours of Jan. 1.
On New Year’s Day, 14 people were killed when a driver intentionally drove a vehicle into a crowd in New Orleans. The FBI is currently investigating the incident.
“A Wonderful World,” which centers on the life of Louis Armstrong, begins its story in New Orleans, where Armstrong was born in 1901.
In support of the victims and their families, the company of “A Wonderful World” raised awareness following this past weekend’s performances with a moment of silence. Additionally, the show has begun a fundraising campaign for the Greater New Orleans Foundation in support of those affected by the New Year’s Day tragedy. A QR code is available at Studio 54, where the musical plays, through which patrons can gather information and donate. Donations can also be made directly here.
Furthermore, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is joining with the company of “A Wonderful World” with a pledge to add an additional $10,000 as a special grant to whatever funds are raised during this effort.
This fundraising effort was initiated by “A Wonderful World” cast member Darlesia Cearcy, who plays Armstrong’ wife Lucille Wilson. Cearcy shared in a statement, “‘A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical’ sets up one foundational question: ‘Why and how did Louis Armstrong invite us into a song so full of hope, love and light about life?’ We as a company traverse through his life starting with his birthplace, New Orleans, and his humble, exciting and yet troubled beginnings. This birthplace was and is the place where he initially discovered his love for jazz and, thus, created an empire and status as the King of Jazz.”
“We are so proud to be a part of this compassionate Broadway community, coming together to help those in need,” added Danny Whitman, executive director of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. “This is a moment to show solidarity and provide real support to the people of New Orleans.”
In addition to this special grant, among the 450+ direct service organizations funded by Broadway Cares across the country, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, there are seven throughout Louisiana, including the New Orleans Musicians Assistance Foundation and Project Lazarus in New Orleans.
“A Wonderful World” began previews on Oct. 16, 2024, and officially opened on Nov. 11 at Studio 54.
The musical is produced by Thomas E. Rodgers, Jr., Renee Delaplaine Rodgers, Martian Entertainment (Carl D. White and Gregory Rae), Vanessa Williams, Liz Curtis, Remmel T. Dickinson, Tonya Lewis Lee, Les Coney, Mathew Knowles and Gena Avery Knowles.
