New Venue, Same Good for Tower of Talent

Above: Some of Atlanta’s most talented children will perform for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s anniversary concert takes its tikkun olam and talent to a new venue, the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

In its third year, this world-class concert Sunday, Dec. 4, features some of the most talented child performers in Atlanta. A citywide casting call drew outstanding performers, singers and musicians ages 8 to 18 to handle music from Beethoven to Broadway and beyond.

The concert’s classical music was inspired by musicologist and piano teacher Warren Woodruff and his popular book, “Dr. Fuddle and the Gold Baton.”

The concert has soared under the direction of Lynn Stallings, the executive director of the Atlanta Workshop Players. Some of the kids appearing in the show were patients at Children’s Healthcare, but it’s common for talented young performers to want to help other children live their dreams out loud.

The idea was initiated and fully funded by benefactor Michael Greenbaum, owner of Tower Beer, Wine & Spirits, who is dedicated to a legacy of support for medically fragile children. “My father taught me the importance of giving, and this is something I want to pass on, not only to my children, but also to my employees at Tower,” he said. “Over the past year we have been volunteering at least once a month with our Tower Lights program all over Atlanta, and our grand finale is this upcoming fundraiser.

“Supporting Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is especially near and dear to my heart because of my three young grandchildren. Even though they are happy and healthy, it has reminded me of the importance of good health care for children, who really are the future.”

Melisa Morrow, Children’s Healthcare’s development officer, said: “Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is a not-for-profit and relies on community donations such as Michael Greenbaum’s generous donation to support unfunded projects. His generosity continues to fund our music therapy program, which empowers the children and their families through unique musical experiences to achieve optimal well-being. Children who receive these services in the hospital are presented with alternative ways to manage pain, express emotions, improve physical/cognitive activity and relate to others through music.”

Woodruff said: “The Tower of Talent is a win-win. The financial benefit to CHOA is the most direct reason for the concert, but behind the scenes, wonderful and equally amazing empowerment happens as young people get the benefit of knowing their dedication to music is actually being used for good — as a force to bring positive change in a world that so desperately needs the healing power of music.”

Robyn Spizman Gerson, the coordinator for the Tower of Talent, said Michael and Anne Greenbaum are “true gems. They have selflessly strived to brighten the lives of others and provide services that brighten the lives of those in need. I am honored to support this cause, which has become one of the hottest holiday tickets in town. I can promise the Tower of Talent is going to be a star-studded, jaw-dropping, celebrity-filled event with protégé kids. Our goal this year is to collectively break a million dollars in 100 percent donations, and we are right on track.”

What: Tower of Talent

Where: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Cumberland area

When: 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4

Tickets: $35 to $100; www.choa.org/toweroftalent