By Rachel George – Entertainment Editor
Theatrics, fashion, music and more will all come together on the Friday night with Toyland, a theatrical fashion show created with the United States Marine Corps, Neb. Division.
The national campaign collects and distributes toys through Toys for Tots, to needy children during the holiday season.
Carl Hartmann, event coordinator and U.S. marine, said the Marine Corps holds many fundraising events during the holiday season.
“The Marine Corps created and runs Toys for Tots, so naturally, I was looking to create an event to benefit this,” he said. “Toys for Tots is also an amazing charity, providing toys to millions of children nationwide who otherwise would go without.”
The larger-than-life show will combine elements of both theater and fashion, utilizing both performers and models to showcase the work of 10 designers who base their lines on their favorite childhood toys, bringing the toys to life.
One hundred percent of the proceeds, toys and monetary donations will go to Toys for Tots.
“The entire evening is going to be one big entertainment experience from the parking lot to inside,” Hartmann said. “With the fashion show, we can reach a group that Toys for Tots wouldn’t normally touch: the art community,”
This is the show’s first year, but Hartmann hopes to make it a continual event.
“We plan to do this event each year, but with a new twist and performance,” he said.
Three different tickets are available for the event. General admission costs $10 and a toy donation, and grants attendees standing room only. Reserved seating costs $20 plus a toy donation. For $50 and a toy donation you can get a VIP table seat, a gift bag and hors d’oeuvres from Indian Oven.
The show will be hosted at the Scoular Ballroom on 2027 Dodge St.
CRAVE, a newly-opened sushi restaurant on 200 S. 31st Ave., will host an after-party for the event. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the menu will be donated to Toys for Tots.
The restaurant has created a special drink menu for the event that includes drinks named “Marionette” and “Toy soldier.”
For more information or tickets, call 541-232-2333 or visit sites.google.com/site/toylandomaha/.
