Hadassah fundraiser features stage performance of ‘Victor/Victoria’

Hadassah Rhode Island will hold its fourth annual “A Cause for Applause” fundraiser on Sunday, May 7, at the Ocean State Theater, in Warwick. The proceeds from this production of “Victor/Victoria” will support brain cancer research at the Leslie and Michael Gaffin Neuro-Oncology Laboratory at Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem.

The Gaffin Center diagnoses and treats patients who suffer from primary or secondary brain tumors; neurological complications; and systemic tumors, both oncological and hematological. 

In their cutting-edge research, Hadassah scientists are focusing on developing advanced diagnostic tests for these kinds of tumors. Recent laboratory results show that the same drugs successfully used for treating prostate cancer can be effective in killing brain-tumor cells, a finding that may change the treatment of brain tumors and bring new hope to patients.

“A Cause for Applause” honors the memory of Meredith Drench, who lost her battle with brain cancer in May 2013. Drench, of East Greenwich, was an author, a professor of physical therapy, and a popular lecturer on physical therapy and behavioral sciences. She was known for her sharp wit and great sense of humor, and for her decades of service and devotion to Hadassah, where she served as president of the Rhode Island chapter and the Western New England Region.

“Victor/Victoria” is a gender-bending musical that is both hilarious and touching. Based on the hit 1982 Blake Edwards film, which was nominated for seven Academy Awards, “Victor/Victoria” tells the story of a down-on-her-luck singer in Paris who becomes the toast of the town as a female impersonator.  Featuring a score by Henry Mancini, “Victor/Victoria” is an unforgettable song-and dance-filled show.

Hadassah Rhode Island extends a warm invitation to one and all to attend this musical theater event, which includes a dessert reception after the 2 p.m. performance on May 7. There is free on-site parking at the theater, at 1245 Jefferson Blvd., Warwick. Tickets are $65 per person, payable to Hadassah. Checks for ticket purchases and donations should be sent to Hadassah, c/o Judy Silverman, 50 Cindyann Drive, East Greenwich, RI 02818.

For additional information, contact BarbaraPortney@yahoo.com or call Hadassah Rhode Island at 401-463-3636.

– Submitted by Hadassah Rhode Island