Benefit to Honor Bullied My Little Pony Fan

Broadway hasn't forgotten Michael Morones, the North Carolina youth who attempted suicide after being bullied for his love of the My Little Pony cartoon as well as his perceived sexual orientation or gender presentation.

Tony Award winner Laura Benanti and Tony nominee Robin de Jesus will headline Broadway Battles Bullying, a one-night-only benefit concert, April 14 at New York University's Skirball Center for the Performing Arts.

Morones, an 11-year-old victim of vicious bullying from his classmates, tried to hang himself from his bunk bed earlier this year. He survived but suffered permanent and severe brain damage.

Proceeds from the Broadway Battles Bullying concert and silent auction will benefit the newly created Michael Morones Foundation, which is dedicated to educating communities about youth suicide prevention and the effects of bullying. According to a press release, the foundation also "works to ensure children that they are loved while providing our youth support and equipping them with the necessary life skills to enjoy a successful life."

Additional scheduled performers include Todd Buonopane, Jill Paice , Carrie Manolakos , Stephen Wallem, Jennifer Laura Thompson , Mykal Kilgore , Joe Iconis and family, Lauren Worsham , Aidan Gemme , Natalie Joy Johnson , Anastacia McCleskey , Shakina Nayfack, Jake Lucas, Sydney Lucas , and Joyce DiDonato .

The event's honorary host committee includes Sir Ian McKellen, Sir Patrick Stewart, Mary-Louise Parker, Paula Cole, Megan Hilty, Jonathan Groff, and Julia Murney.

For tickets and more information visit broadwaybattlesbullying.org.