posted by Alice

Sushi, fancy wine, classical violin duets . . . cupcakes, MGD, Balkan rock music . . . for any of you still in doubt, the 2009 annual TUTA benefit was proof positive that TUTA’s got it all. In a short video montage screened above the drum set of the rock band in the swanky West Loop art gallery, TUTA players and patrons got a glimpse of the shows that have made this company what it is: classical romance, rock and roll war zones, family dramas in primary colors, smoking jazz trios on modern day etiquette, and so much more. The evening celebrated TUTA’s constant search for new, exciting work and new, exciting ways to present what’s been seen before. It was also a thank you to those who let us do what we do. A hand-crafted puppet was awarded to patron and friend Harriet Hahn-Ttee, the 90 year old artist and art lover who has supported the theater since it’s arrival in Chicago seven years ago. The belief and support of Harriet and patrons like her give us the ability to keep up the innovation . . . and make us want to dance!

The rollicking Eyes Manouche took the stage and the party took the dance floor to make the exposed brick walls of the Mars Gallery boogie. Guests had palms read, enjoyed delicious food and drink, and danced, danced, danced the night away. After the raffle was drawn and the silent auction awarded it’s final items, the revelers went home with the Uncle Vanya pill bottles (filled with mints, not pain killers), a reminder of the excellence in theater that TUTA constantly strives for.

Thank you to all who attended, to all who sent in donations, and to all who come see the shows. Thank you for your love and respect of this art form. Thank you for allowing us to create it.