Supporters excited by return of legendary singer who was featured at first Disciples of Trinity fundraiser
 |
| Dionne Warwick |
Singer Dionne Warwick whose hits “Alfie,” “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again,” “That’s What Friends Are For” and “Do You Know the Way to San Jose?” have captivated fans for decades will headline the Disciples of Trinity’s annual fundraising gala at the Adams Mark Hotel on Sept. 8.
Jim Davis, executive director of the nonprofit group that provides assistance to more than 2,400 clients, said the news that Warwick would be performing at the event had excited longtime supporters of DOT. Warwick performed at the group’s first gala eight years ago.
“I’ve been getting a lot of phone calls about it,” Davis said. “There seems to be a lot of interest in seeing her perform.”
The annual event also features Linda and Larry Petty and The Main Event and pianist Don Reasons each year. Impersonator “Marilyn,” a near-dead ringer for Marilyn Monroe, also participates in the event each year.
Last year, a performance by Broadway star Chita Rivera attracted about 600 guests, the best-attended gala ever, Davis said.
Davis said Warwick’s performance at the group’s first gala drew raves from the audience. It helped successfully launch the annual dinner and show as the group’s primary fundraising event, he said.
“It is wonderful to be renewing a past friendship, and welcoming her back,” Davis said. “Everyone recalls a beautiful presentation by a superbly talented, warm and gracious lady, also known throughout the world for her humanitarian and caring approach to the needs of her fellow humans.”
Warwick began her singing career in church, according to her biography. She received her first Grammy award for “Do You Know the Way to San Jose?” in the 1960s. She was the first African-American solo female artist to win the award for Best Contemporary Female Vocal Performances. Ella Fitzgerald is the only other African-American to win the award.
In addition to the annual fundraiser, the group operates DOT’s Closet at 5810 Live Oak St. in East Dallas. The store, which functions as a resale consignment store with all proceeds going to charitable work, features clothing, furniture, antiques and accessories.
The group also provides food, clothing, burial assistance and other necessities for clients.
More than half of the clients are HIV patients.
Davis, who founded the nonprofit group, has received the The Freedom Foundation Valley Forge George Washington Honor, Our Town Hero of Continuing Contributions to the City of Dallas, The Dallas Affairs Senior Citizen Commission Award, the Laura Miller Community Service Award and the Yellow Rose Award of Distinction from Ebby Halliday for Outstanding Community Service.
For information about attending Warwick’s performance or the group’s work call 214-826-4099.
E-mail webb@dallasvoice.com
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition, April 27, 2007.