Brandy Norwood has been making headlines for her Broadway performance as Roxie Hart in the musical Chicago lately, but she recently took time out of her schedule to mentor children who are preparing to be in a talent show, and also participate in the Garden of Dreams Foundation, which helps children that are facing obstacles like poverty, homelessness, illness – and offers them once-in-a-lifetime experiences through the Madison Square Garden Company. The program started in 2006, and has created enduring programs and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that have brought joy and happiness to more than 275,000 children and their families.
(Photo credit: MSG Photos)
The Foundation works with 25 partner organizations throughout the New York area (to include hospitals, wish organizations and community-based organizations) to reach children who are facing challenges such as homelessness, extreme poverty, illness and foster care.
Some of the celebrities who have given their time to be a part of this special experience include: Susan Sarandon, Dave Chappelle, John McEnroe, Adrienne Bailon, Sara Bareilles, Swizz Beatz, Miguel, Mindless Behavior, Michelle Williams, Whoopi Goldberg, Victor Cruz, Billy Crudup, Seth Meyers, Adam Horovitz and Mike D of the Beastie Boys, Darryl McDaniels of Run DMC, Mark Hoppus of Blink 182, Jane Krakowski, New York Knicks players, the Rockettes and Broadway stars.
The Garden of Dreams Talent Show, called “Musical Dreams,” was held at Radio City Music Hall on June 18 at 7pm and will have over 100 children onstage performing their talent for their friends and families. Last year over 3,300 people attended; the show is free and open to the public.Norwood recently extended her run in Chicago until August 2 at the Ambassador Theatre