Lawrence.com

In the wake of recent budget cuts, fundraisers and benefits for arts programs have become even more valuable. Tonight, Theatre Lawrence hosts a benefit called Dueling Divas, which features nine local talents attempting to out-perform one another in the name of a good cause.

The women competing are as follows: Annette Cook, Barbara Ballard, Genee, Figuieras, Kim Murphee, Susan Ralston, Kim Scarbrough, Sarah Young, Patty McGrew and our own Boomer Girl contributor, Cathy Hamilton. Attendees vote for a specific diva or even multiple divas by pledging a dollar to Theatre Lawrence. Voting multiple times for your favorite contestant is encouraged and at the end of the night, the diva with the most votes wears the prestigious Diva Crown.

Tickets to the performance are $50 per person or $65 for premium seating. All tickets guarantee heavy hor d'oeuvres, free drinks before the show and yes, access to a chocolate fountain. If those tickets are too rich for your blood, but you still want to vote for your favorite performer, you can do so any time by visiting this link. And if you're asking yourself, "Why would I vote early for a performance I haven't seen yet," then you're missing the point.

Have safe and happy Valentine's Day weekend everyone.