Save the date!
'Denver Stories' is Curious Theatre Company’s largest fundraising event of the year, and offers a unique glimpse into the lives of some of Denver’s most intriguing personalities, while highlighting one of Denver’s cultural gems, Curious Theatre Company. The fourth annual Denver Stories will take place on Wednesday, May 20, beginning at 6 p.m. at Curious Theatre Company, 1080 Acoma St in Denver.
This year’s 'Denver Stories' lauds one of the most exciting lineups of local celebrities in the event’s history. The evening features four original plays, written by local artists and inspired by our guest celebrities, based on their contributions, experiences, and achievements in the Denver community. The performances are co-authored by the celebrities themselves, and performed by members of Curious’ Artistic Company of professional artists.
“There is really nothing quite like 'Denver Stories' in town. It brings the stories of well known Denver personalities and community leaders to life in a way that most of us do not know from their public personas,” says Dean Prina, co-chair of the event for a fourth year running. Curious Board Vice President Rick Acosta joins Prina as co-chair. Serving with them on the Denver Stories Committee are Eron Johnson, Rhonda Knop, Vanessa Marck, Kristin Stork and David Tenenbaum. Local actor and entertainer, Paul Borrillo, will preside as the Master of Ceremonies. Occasions by Sandy will host the pre-show cocktail hour and post-show party.
See the list of 2009 participating celebrities after the jump.
• Governor Bill and First Lady Jeannie Ritter, State of Colorado. Originally high school sweethearts, Bill and Jeannie Ritter have been working to better Denver and the state of Colorado for over two decades. Both spent time in Africa before committing to civil and social service, Jeannie through the Peace Corps and together running a food distribution and nutrition center in Zambia. Soon after their return, Bill was appointed Denver’s District Attorney, a post he held until January 2005. In 2006, he became our first Colorado-born Governor in over 35 years, quickly establishing Colorado as a leader on energy innovation, business development and the growth of a new energy economy. Jeannie works in the DPS and is an advocate for mental health issues.
• Sandy Tenenbaum, caterer, founder of Occasions by Sandy. The grande dame of local caterers started Occasions by Sandy 39 years ago and never looked back. Her culinary and special events savvy have been recognized in National Catering Magazine, Denver Women’s Magazine and Colorado Homes and Lifestyles, as well as earning her two international and national awards for Event Opening for the National Tour of Sunset. Her most coveted honor, besides her four kids and fifteen grandchildren, was the 2002 Woman of Distinction Award from the Girl Scouts of Colorado.
• Reggie Rivers is a former NFL running back who played six seasons with the Denver Broncos (1991-1996). Reggie is the “Weekend Sports Anchor” on Denver’s Channel 4 (CBS) and co-hosts its Countdown to Kickoff show. Reggie is a featured guest commentator on “Court TV,” and is a columnist for Pro Football Weekly. Reggie has received numerous community service awards that recognize his commitment of “giving back” to the community.
• Lannie Garrett, singer/actress, owner of Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret. This redhead changes her feathers easily, from the glamorous, sequined chanteuse fronting her 10 piece big band, "Any Swing Goes," to her hilarious country spoof, The Patsy DeCline Show. Lannie has headlined at prestigious Boettcher Concert Hall and Red Rocks Amphitheater with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. She has also worked with a diverse group of national entertainers such as Bill Cosby, B.B. King and Jay Leno.
