The Broadway community comes together May 14 at Stage 48 for Heels on Wheels, A Homecoming Celebration to Benefit Jerad Bortz and Steven Skeels. The evening will raise funds to benefit Wicked’s Bortz and husband Skeels following a tragic car accident in early February that left Bortz paralyzed from the chest down.
Hosted by Alexis Michelle (RuPaul’s Drag Race), the event is produced by Ioana Alfonso, Rob Harmon, and Betsy Werbel and sponsored by Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.
Joining host Michelle are Shoshana Bean (who previously starred in Wicked as Elphaba), Tony winner Annaleigh Ashford (a former Glinda), and Breedlove (the musical's longtime makeup supervisor), as well as drag queens Shequida, Ariel Sinclair, Gusty Winds, and Davida Jones. Friends from the Broadway companies of Wicked, Beautiful, Kinky Boots, and more are also part of the fundraiser.
Doors open at 7 PM for a VIP cocktail hour prior to the 8 PM performance. DJ Heng will keep the event going through the night.
Bortz recently made an appearance at the 32nd Annual Easter Bonnet Competition, where Wicked won the award for Best Bonnet Presentation. Wicked dedicated their performance to former cast member Bortz and husband Skeels. Bortz joined his co-stars onstage to don the company's bonnet during their presentation.
Bortz and Skeels created this video in response to the concern and love of friends, family, and fans. All proceeds support Bortz and Skeels’ ongoing medical costs.
Tickets are available at Stage48.com. Donations can be made here.
(Updated May 14, 2018)