Hands down, the highlight of this week was a IYKYK Monday night which is unusual since it’s a dark day for the city’s theaters. In fact, this is what makes it the perfect evening for Maestra’s annual Amplify event, which raises money for women and non-binary musicians in musical theatre. (As you might imagine, this demographic are grossly underrepresented in the ‘pit’.) The show is equal parts benefit, auction, and cabaret, and features songs written and performed by Maestras, which is how the group refers to its members! In a 10 show week, performers were kind to donate their one day off for the cause.

There was a whole constellation of Black stars featured in Amplify 2024: Kayla Davion (Tina: Tina Turner Musical), Jasmine Amy Rogers (BOOP! The Musical), Joy Woods (The Notebook) and Jordan Tyson (The Notebook). Plus, the event was hosted by the Tony-Award winning J. Harrison Ghee (Kinky Boots, Some Like It Hot).

Every number gave me chills because these Maestras are trained, the mics are on, and they are singing for their lives. Amplify is an out-of-this-world show for a much needed cause and year after year (this is their fifth one!) I’m reminded of the immense talent soaked into the seams of this city. There’s no place I’d rather be.