Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812, a critically-acclaimed downtown show set in Tolstoy's Russia which begins performances in Times Square today through December 31, will not serve any Russian vodka at its performances, and will also make a $10,000 donation plus all food and beverage sales from its first show to Human Rights Watch in honor of the oppressed LGBT community in Russia, according to producers.
In addition, they will contribute all proceeds from a special first night after-party beginning 11pm tonight, September 27, which is open to the public with or without a ticket to The Great Comet. Attendance at the party is free of charge and will feature live entertainment and an opportunity for guests to show their support for the Russian LGBT community.
Said the show's lead producers, Howard & Janet Kagan:
“As we invite audiences into our own version of an opulent supper club celebrating Tolstoy's Russia, we hope to see a contemporary Russia that supports its LGBT community. We are glad to support Human Rights Watch in their efforts to bring that vision to reality. Also, at Kazino, we promise that until the rights of the Russian LGBT community are ensured, we will only pour vodkas made in the US and Northern and Western Europe.”
Added Minky Worden, Director of Global Initiatives for Human Rights Watch: "Now is one of the most important times to stand with Russia's LGBT community against hate and homophobia. We are grateful and excited to partner with the team behind The Great Comet of 1812 to help get the word out about this harrowing human rights crisis."
Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 will be playing in Kazino, a custom venue on West 45th Street between Times Square and 8th Avenue. Tickets are on sale through Telecharge.com.