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Volunteer Spotlight – Michael DiPietro
Michael DiPietro moved to New York from south Florida to be closer to Broadway. And though he’s not a performer, designer or technician, he’s one of those dedicated fans that make the New York theatre thrive. Michael started volunteering in the BC/EFA office in 2002, as a way to become involved with the community, and, lucky for us, he’s stuck around and become one of the organization’s group of core volunteers – the ones who put the same enthusiasm into stuffing envelopes as attending all-star receptions. “I don’t have a theatrical background,” says DiPietro, who earned degrees in Marketing and Business Management after a few years in the Air Force. “That’s why I’m so grateful to BC/EFA for including me in almost every event now. And I’ve learned so much about Broadway just by helping out.” No matter how busy he is, Michael always finds time to lend, and counts the many friendships he has made here as the main reason he keeps coming back. “I am constantly amazed and impressed and proud of the staff at BC/EFA, at how efficient you are with the money you raise, with the quality of your productions, and mostly, with the generosity and gratitude of my fellow volunteers. Of course, AIDS disturbs me, but at the same time, by working with you I have grown aware of the beauty in people who help other people. Holding a bucket for Gypsy or Easter Bonnet is so rewarding for so little effort on my part.” Some of Michael’s favorite Broadway moments include Donna Murphy singing “I Happen to Like New York” at Broadway Under the Stars, Phylicia Rashad’s performance in A Raisin in the Sun, and winning tickets to see Avenue Q in a volunteer lottery. So, what’s his favorite BC/EFA show? “Broadway Bares, of course!” Why? He adds with a grin, “The costumes… why do you think?”
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By Joe Norton