The English Beat is on my top 5 list of favorite bands ever. So when I saw that a Facebook buddy linked to a concert they were playing locally, I jumped at the chance to get tickets. Never mind that I initially purchased tickets for the wrong night and had to exchange them. It’s all good now.The Beat (as my Irish husband insists on calling them) is playing 3 nights at Maxwells in Hoboken, NJ. The first night, May 13th is a fundraising event for the Five P Minus Society, an organization set up to help support families of children born with this rare genetic defect.

Jude Chavez was born with 5P- Sydrome aka Cri du Chat. Fortunately for him and others like him, his parents are taking positive steps to educate the public and increase awareness about the disorder. So, how did they get The Beat to play their benefit? Jude’s mother, Barbara, a long time fan, just approached the lead singer, Dave Wakeling and asked him after a concert last year. And he said yes!

Dave Wakeling will be on hand for photos and autographs for a donation. You can also bid to perform with the band! How cool is that? Tickets are $75 for this event and $25 for the regular concert on other nights. But I know you’ll splurge for this because you’re not selfish bastards.

So come, see a great concert (They are terrific in concert!), meet the band, dance, nosh, schmooze and do it all in the name of a good cause!