On Saturday, December 20, the Birmingham Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority rolled out the “red carpet” at the premiere weekend of the movie “Annie”. With 800 plus guests, the chapter was able to do a full buy out of two of the largest auditoriums at the Carmike Patton Creek theater in Hoover for a 4:30 p.m. showing. Offering great value to the guests, for only $15, each guest was able to get their ticket and concessions (small popcorn and drink), while also making a contribution to the chapter’s scholarship fund. Birmingham Alumnae Chapter annually presents over $10,000 in scholarships and book stipends to local area high school and Miles College students. Thanks to the response of all in attendance, the Sorority is well on the way to meeting this year’s scholarship commitment and the event was a real success, states event coordinator, Iona Martin. Other factors for attracting over 800 guests included participation of chapter members, partnership with and support from other organizations, sponsorships and participation of the chapter’s youth initiative groups, and a team effort from the Local Project committee members. The Local Project committee chair is Bertha Bradford with co-chair Gloria Dennard. The President of the Birmingham Alumnae Chapter is Shirley Taylor, with Vice-President, Dr. Felecia Dailey.
“Annie” is one of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated National Arts and Letters Commission’s Red Carpet movie features. Well ahead of the game, the fundraising or local project committee launched the project at their August meeting. This was the first time that the chapter had done this type of event as a fundraiser. Kicking off the start of the Christmas break for students, this all-inclusive event with guests ranging from children to adults proved to be an enjoyable evening for all. This modern day remake of the classic musical Annie, featured veteran actor, Jamie Foxx, upcoming star and actress, little Miss Quvenzhane’ Wallis (11 years old), and actress Cameron Diaz. Producers included Jay-Z, Will Smith, Jada Pinkett-Smith, and others.
