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The nonprofit, which supports LGBTQ+ filmmaking, will throw a holiday variety show, 'Twas the Night Before Give-mas.
From left: Margaret Cho, Charlie Carver, and Candis Cayne
Outfest is throwing its first annual virtual fundraiser.
The event, titled 'Twas the Night Before Give-mas, is a variety benefit hosted by journalist Marc Malkin. It will feature drag performances, live music, and comedic sketches from artists including Margaret Cho, Charlie Carver, Wilson Cruz, Cheyenne Jackson, Janaya Future Khan, Candis Cayne, Steven Canals, Jinkx Monsoon, BenDeLaCreme, select Out 100 honorees, and more "iconic queer crushes," according to a release.
The virtual proceedings will be held November 30, which is also the eve of Giving Tuesday, the annual event supporting nonprofit organizations. It will be livestreamed at Outfest.org/givemas, as well as OutfestNow.com and via Outfest's social media handles.
"In a year which so much is different, there is one thing that I'm hoping everybody can relate to: that is the incredible work of the artists and storytellers of our community," said Damien Navarro, Outfest's executive director.
"Pairing this incredible talent roster with an event to support our incredible programs and mission will help Outfest meet the many challenges we are facing during these unprecedented times," Navarro continued. "With the difficult holiday season ahead, we hope that this event brings a much-needed smile and short escape from the struggles we are all facing daily."
Proceeds from the 75-minute fundraising event will benefit the work of Outfest, which in addition to its annual LGBTQ+ film festivals provides programs in education and film preservation. It will also help its new streaming service, Outfest Now. It is sponsored by Cadillac and Pride Media, The Advocate's parent company.
News of the benefit comes on the heels of Saturday's Outfest Legacy Awards, a drive-in gala honoring Joe Mantello with the first Terrence McNally Award as well as Dreamworks. The Out 100 were also featured at the event in Malibu, Calif.
