Doctors in Concert at CDM

Photo courtesy to CDM

NORMAL, Ill. –  Healthcare experts will put on a fundraiser for children, but this fundraiser will be held safely…virtually.

Seven local physician-musicians will perform during the annual Doctors in Concert this Friday, Sept. 18 at 6 p.m. using a live stream from the Children’s Discovery Museum (CDM) in Uptown Normal.

All ticket sale proceeds will be supporting the CDM’s new exhibit Healthy Me.

“The concert and the Healthy Me project were delayed during the shelter-at-home period earlier this spring, but construction picked up again this summer and our volunteer committee decided to move forward with a remote concert experience to raise the final dollars for the project,” said Event Chair Elise Albers with OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital of Illinois. “We are proud of our local doctors who kept their commitment to the Museum despite the unusual circumstances. We know a virtual event isn’t exactly the same as an in-person concert, but I assure you the need is very much the same and the outcomes are no less important.”

This year’s event includes live performances on piano, violin and cello, with musical selections ranging from classical to modern jazz to American Standards. The public is invited to shop and bid in the accompanying online silent auction with items and activities for sale as well as exhibit props available to donate. Among the auction items will be the exclusive chance to be the very first party to play in the Health Me exhibit.

“We’re relying on our regular attendees to try out the new online format and show their support during our closure,” added CDM Executive Director Beth Whisman. “Their efforts will help us offer a brand new play experience to members and visitors when we reopen. Plus, the message is timely. Healthy Me is going to serve children and families throughout our community with important playful learning about health, wellness and disease prevention. We even made design adjustments to add a fun handwashing station.”

The CDM has continued to offer educational programs and day camps under the Restore Illinois guidelines, however children’s museums have not been allowed to fully reopen across the state.

Events such as Doctors in Concert and Day of Play, which will be held Sept. 26, allow the CDM to serve its mission to inspire the love of learning through the power of play.

The CDM and its nonprofit foundation have also provided thousands of free STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) activity kits and free Daily Dose of Play videos to families across Central Illinois.