‘Hamilton’ star headlines virtual hospital event

Tony and Grammy award winner Renée Elise Golds-berry from the original cast of the Broadway musical “Hamilton,” will perform at the annual Rose of Hope luncheon — a major annual fundraiser that benefits Bridgeport Hospital’s Norma Pfriem Breast Center.

But there’s a twist. The fundraiser has been transformed into a virtual event because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The virtual “luncheon” will take place at 7 p.m Sept. 25.

Goldsberry, who played Alexander Hamilton’s sister-in-law Angelica in the blockbuster play, will be the musical performer at “A Night of Magic Together while Remaining Apart.”

Bank of America is the lead event sponsor. Other sponsors include Connie and John DeMattia and the De-Mattia Charitable Foundation, and Judy and David Nessel and the Nessel Family Foundation (in memory of Amy Nessel). The event co-chairs are Elise Bucknall and Lynne Taikowski. For information, tickets, and to preview or bid on the vacation getaway auction items, visit ROH2020.givesmart.com.

The breast center’s popular fundraiser has been a live event for 20 years, drawing 500 to 600 guests annually. This year, those who register for the webcast will be provided with login credentials at the time of registration.

“As you can imagine, Norma Pfriem Breast Center has been experiencing a dramatic loss in funding this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while the needs of our patients have increased,” said Donna Twist, executive director of the center and vice president of development for Bridgeport Hospital, in a news release. “That’s why support of this year’s Rose of Hope event is more crucial than ever.”

Funds raised by the event directly affect the center’s ability to provide medical care, patient navigation and support services.

Beside Goldsberry’s musical performances, this year’s event will include a short film featuring breast center patents and their stories and after-party music provided by DJ Nomad NYC.

Each sponsorship or ticket includes a virtual party package featuring light fare and a mini-bottle of sparkling wine.