Web-a-thon with Bill Deasy, Aubrey Burchell, others benefits emergency fund for artists

Bill Deasy is among the local musicians to play for the Emergency Fund for Artists Web-a-thon 6 p.m. Saturday to raise money for an emergency fund for local performing artists.

As covid-19 has decimated the performing arts scene, the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council is trying to raise money for an emergency fund for impacted local artists. The emergency fund benefits artists and creative workers living in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Washington, Lawrence, Indiana, Greene, Fayette, Washington, and Westmoreland counties. They are eligible to request up to $500.

The web-a-thon is presented by The Oaks Theater and Pittsburgh Concert Audio, benefiting the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council.

The public can watch the web-a-thon via Facebook or YouTube.

The show will feature a combination of livestreaming and prerecorded segments live from The Oaks in Oakmont.

Saturday’s show will be hosted by Phat Man Dee and includes Deasy, Aubrey Burchell, Deryck Tines, Alora Chateaux, Bon Journey, Tim Kutch, the Sons of Margaret featuring GPAC’s CEO Mitch Swain, actor Tracey Turner, and performers Carolina Loyola-Garcia and Jon Bañuelos from Alba Flamenca.

Artists can request the financial help if they have lost money due to canceled events, including all performing arts, disciplines, readings and speaking opportunities, according to the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council website.