Jesus Christ Superstar Fundraiser in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS STARTRIBUNE
By Graydon Royce

Ben Bakken, Jesus in “Jesus Christ Superstar,” and other cast members.

MINNESOTA - The production of "Jesus Christ Superstar" is something of a landmark for Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. For the first time in its 43-year history, the theater sought a corporate sponsor. For its investment, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans demanded more from Chanhassen than simple advertising. "It had to be more than putting our logo on a Playbill," said Stacy Hanley, Thrivent's director of community relations. "We wanted to build a program with them that allowed us to give back to the community." Thus was born the "Community Superstar." The dinner theater raised more than $18,000 during a food drive with Minnesota FoodShare, and now is honoring 13 individuals selected for their volunteer work. [link]