NEW YORK—Stephen L. Norris, co-founder of the powerful private equity firm The Carlyle Group, and his wife recently donated 40 tickets for disadvantaged families and the elderly to see Holiday Wonders at Beacon Theatre, in New York City. The acclaimed show, now running through Dec. 26, blends classical Eastern and Western arts for a refined cultural experience that Norris said, "illustrates the best of traditional Chinese culture."
"I think the show is very beautiful," said Norris, who is also a former president of The Carlyle Group. The firm's credits have included former President George Bush, former Secretary of State James Baker III, and former Secretary of Defense Frank C. Carlucci.
Norris donated $3,000 for the 40 tickets, which will go to disadvantaged families at the renowned Hale House in Harlem. Now offering child and family services, Hale House started during the drug epidemic of the 1970s. The first of its kind, it was a place to house and care for infants born to mothers who were addicted to drugs like heroin.
Some of the ticket money will also go to senior citizens who wouldn't otherwise be able to afford to see Holiday Wonders.
"This is the third year I will be attending the show. This year my wife and I will also be donating tickets to people who would otherwise be unable to enjoy the show," said Norris, who left The Carlyle Group in 1996 and is presently managing director of his own private equity investment firm.
Asked what he liked best about the show, Norris said, "The lotus flower dance, as well as depictions of the legendary stories… the incredible use of colors and the scenery."
The donation program was set up by the show's Chinese-language producers, New Tang Dynasty Television (NTDTV), as a way to help make sure that everyone who wants to see the show gets a chance. NTDTV will also be putting on a Chinese New Year show at Radio City Music Hall in January and February.
"I would also like to thank NTDTV for sponsoring and bringing these wonderful shows to the American people!" said Norris.
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