Disney Cast Members Raise $35,000 for United Arts

ORLANDO, Fla., July 29, 2009 - Making music for charity’s sake, the Encore! Cast Choir and Orchestra, a volunteer ensemble of nearly 300 Disney Cast Members, struck a high note by raising a record $35,000 for United Arts of Central Florida.

"On behalf of Encore!, we are grateful to everyone who came out to support our concerts and help us raise a record level of funds for United Arts,” said Encore! producer and co-founder Ray Fournier. “We are thrilled to be giving them a $35,000 donation and know it will go to good use in support of many arts organizations in Central Florida who are struggling in these economic times."

Earning rave reviews for "Revolution! - A Musical Flashback to the ‘60s and ‘70s,” Encore! took the stage at Epcot for three nights (July 23-25) with more than 200 singers and an 80-piece orchestra to perform songs by The Beatles, Queen, Elton John and ABBA.

“Our two-year relationship with Encore! has helped both our organizations,” said United Arts President & CEO Margot H. Knight. “We’re overjoyed to again be the beneficiary of this amazing volunteer event. It’s a perfect pairing since so many Disney Cast Members are involved in the local arts scene both onstage and behind the scenes. The creativity of Disney fuels our cultural community to a large extent.”

Encore! gives Disney Cast Members a chance to showcase their skills and perform great music while raising funds for local charities. Beneficiaries are determined by group vote. In July 2008, Encore! raised $25,940 for United Arts. Since its inception in 2002, it has raised more than $115,000 for local charities. To learn more, visit www.encorecentral.org.

United Arts of Central Florida is a dynamic collaboration of businesses, governments, foundations, arts and cultural organizations, school districts, artists and individuals. This partnership works to enhance the quality and variety of cultural experiences available throughout Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Since its inception in 1989, United Arts has invested more than $102 million in local cultural organizations and cultural education. For more information please visit www.UnitedArts.cc.