Sheldon, Iowa — A fundraising idea by a member of Jay Shelp Community Theatre in Sheldon has paid off big for a charity for kids battling cancer.
When Sheldon resident Brian Tutje was cast as Uncle Fester in the Celebration Days Jay Shelp Community Theatre production of The Addams Family Musical he knew he’d have to shave his head to play the part. Tutje had an idea to make his transformation be about more than just a community theatre role. He decided he would use it as an event to raise money for the organization Team KWC, a racing charity whose initials stand for Kids With Cancer.
Tutje solicited donations from his customers at Just Cuts For Men in Sheldon, and even offered a $50 donation from his own pocket for anyone else who would join him in getting their heads shaved. Chris Zoet took him up on that challenge, and the head shaving took place on August 21st. In addition, Jay Shelp Community Theatre agreed to donate a portion of the revenue from each ticket sold for The Addams Family Musical to Tutje’s effort.
Now Tutje says he has a final total of the monies raised during his hair-brained, or no-hair-brained if you prefer, fundraising idea. He tells KIWA that a total of $5,055 was raised for Team KWC.
Brian extends his sincere and heart-felt thank you to everyone who helped with the fundraiser for Team KWC.
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Posted 8:46 pm, 8/21/2018
Sheldon, Iowa — The shaving of an actor’s head for a community theatre role served a dual purpose in Sheldon Tuesday evening.
Brian Tutje of Sheldon has been cast in the role of Uncle Fester in next week’s Jay Shelp Community Theatre Production of The Addams Family Musical. The role required Tutje to shave his head. Tutje said he decided to use the head shaving as a way to raise money for a worthy cause.
Several people, including the entire cast of The Addams Family Musical were on hand to support Tutje as Shannon Baack removed his hair and beard.
Tutje had offered a $50 donation for anyone else who would get their heads shaved during Tuesday night’s event, and Chris Zoet allowed Tutje to make him part of the Bare Head Brigade, as well.
The photos below show Tutje’s progression from a full head of hair and beard into Uncle Fester.
