Connecticut native Adam Nichols Russell, a self-described poet, filmmaker, and peacemaker, is coordinating “In Memory of Sandy Hook”, an art and music event in tribute to the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary tragedy, their families, the Newtown community, and all of those affected by the great loss that took place last month. The event will take place at at Danbury’s Heirloom Arts Theatre at a date to be announced, and Russell is seeking musicians, artists, vendors, and volunteers to get involved in “bringing musical therapy to our youth and raising money for mental health.” Proceeds from the event will go to the Newtown Parent Connection for grief counseling and mental health care.
So far, Russell has booked The Racer, an alternative rock band from New York, along with Bolivian artist Maximiliano Siñani, whose works transform everyday objects into something extraordinary – a bicycle tire on chair wheels, a pizza topped with grass, an ornate mask on a clothing line. Siñani will be painting live at the event, and the work will be raffled off at the end of the night.
Russell has also created a series of screen printed t-shirts commemorating those who were lost at Sandy Hook Elementary, with the proceeds from t-shirt sales also going to the Newtown Parent Connection. These will be available a the benefit, and they are also available for order online at Russell’s website.
“Wheel on wheels” by Maximiliano Siñani.
“We need your help and whoever else you recommend that would fit the bill,” says Russell. ”This performance is completely in-kind. However, we may be able to allocate a portion of the door to paying for gas money or travel costs. You are of course allowed to sell your merch at the show too and keep all of the profits. Food and drink will be provided. Discounted hotel rates might possibly be arranged as well if you don’t want to make the trip back home. 90% of the door goes to Newtown Parent Connection, 10% goes to benefit show production costs. All raffle proceeds and donation bin proceeds go to the charity.”
Russell is also creating a VIP ticket for the families who were directly affected by the Sandy Hook tragedy so that they might enjoy the benefit free of charge and get some extra perks throughout the evening. He is also encouraging those who cannot attend the event but who still wish to donate to donate to the Newtown Parent Connection via the organization’s PayPal.
Bands looking to perform, vendors, and volunteers interested in helping with the show can email Russell at anewyouproductions@gmail.com.
For more information, visit heirloomarts.org and adamnicholsrussell.com.
Correction:
1/8/13 – The article previously stated that “In Memory of Sandy Hook” would be taking place on Saturday, January 17. Since then, the date of the event has been postponed and will be announced soon. The article has been changed to reflect this correction.
