Life Amplified NOURISH is back for its 13th year and 18th FUNdraiser, bringing the community together for a red, white, and blue-jeans indoor picnic where the dress code is comfy, the vibe is joyful, and the mission is serious: making sure kids have reliable meals.
Benefiting Food Packs for Kids, think picnic meets party with denim, colorful picnic-inspired details, great music, big laughs, and plenty of opportunities to connect. Enjoy live music featuring some of the best voices from Tampa Bay’s musical stages, along with the comedy hijinks of Tampa Metropolitan Improv. And because we refuse to let a single delicious bite of that amazing charcuterie go to waste, Campbell River Cheese and Charcuterie will create individual picnic meals for guests to enjoy with delicious cookies by LeAnn’s Cookies.
DJing provided by Vocal4Media. Returning to keep the evening rolling is the fabulous Cloe Cabrera, former Miss Florida USA and journalist, whose energy, wit, and personality make her the perfect host for this one-of-a-kind celebration.
Come in your blue jeans, bring your appetite, and get ready for an evening filled with music, laughter, delicious food, and a whole lot of community spirit – all while helping put nutritious food into the hands of kids who need it.
Venue sponsored by Carrollwood Cultural Center. Event sponsored by CDB Injury Law and Fran & Dick Powers.
Life Amplified Founder
Deb Kelley
Deborah Bostock-Kelley is the founder of The WriteOne Creative Services and creator of Life Amplified, a volunteer-driven showcase that combines the arts with philanthropy. What began as a spontaneous idea in a movie theater lobby in 2012 has grown into a beloved Tampa Bay tradition, raising funds and awareness for local nonprofits through music, storytelling, comedy, and live performance. This year’s program marks the 18th Life Amplified event.
An award-winning playwright, journalist, and community advocate, Deborah has been recognized as Bay News 9’s Every Day Hero and Fox 13’s Hometown Hero for her impact across Tampa Bay. Through Life Amplified, she has connected artists, audiences, and charitable causes while ensuring that every event gives back to the selected nonprofit.
Life Amplified Emcee
Cloe Cabrera
Cloe Cabrera is an award-winning journalist and communications professional based in Tampa, Florida. She has gained recognition for her insightful stories focusing on Tampa’s rich diversity, highlighting the unique stories and contributions of its vibrant communities. Cloe made history as the first Black and first Latina to hold the Miss Florida USA title, leveraging her platform to advocate for inclusivity and representation. Her work in journalism has earned her numerous accolades, reflecting her commitment to social justice and community engagement. Currently, Cloe is working on a book that aims to inspire and empower others by sharing her experiences and the lessons learned throughout her remarkable journey.
Singer
Vette Berrian
“Summertime” – Ella Fitzgerald
Woman is GOD living in her purpose by spreading the Word, love and helping others become their best selves. A retired professional from Journalism/Public Relations who now is a professional entertainer. She is an Army veteran and retired Air Force spouse. Hardworking, loyal, empathetic, team player who loves to perform acts of community service.
Singer
Bella Boytsan
“How to Return Home”
By day, Bella is a microbiology and cell science student at the University of Florida, and a total classic literature nerd. By night, she is a stage manager, performer, and theatre snob. If you say her name in a mirror three times, she won’t appear because that trick isn’t real…yet.
Singer
Tom Bronson
“Another Day in Paradise” – Phil Collins
Tom’s performance history ranges from barbershop quartets to operas and ska bands to Shakespeare. Basically, if it provides him the opportunity to perform in front of people, he’ll take it. Some of his favorite roles in the past were Orin Scrivello, DDS in New Tampa Players’ Little Shop of Horrors, Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing, Harold Hill in Music Man, Candy Man in Willy Wonky, and Bumble in Oliver. Those last two weren’t his biggest roles, but they were the most important. Willy Wonky is where he met his beautiful wife and Oliver is where he got to share the stage with both his wife and son.
Singer
Donald L. Dowridge, Jr
“Papa’s Got A Brand New Bag”
Founder of DLD (Determined to Learn and Develop) Enterprises, Established in 1992. Motivational Guru / Keynote Speaker ( Public & Universities Schools, Business meetings & Retreats, Churches, Foster Homes, Incarcerated Facilities, Family Reunions) / Master of Ceremony (M. C.) / Mentor (Youth & Adults) / Motivational Liaison for Hillsborough County Public Schools (27 Years) / Perform as the 21st Century FREDERICK DOUGLASS (17 Years), Perform as SOUL SANTA throughout Hillsborough, Polk, & Pinellas County / Author of 14th Books (The Power of Being a Winner Number 1 on Barnes & Nobles Books) / Recognized by Many organizations in the Tampa Bay Area & Beyond / Member of CABA, as a Disabled Veteran, member of V. F. W. & Brandon Post & Parks. Awarded by 4 Presidents of the these United States, Governor of Florida & various City Officials near & far. After 11 & 1/2 Retired from U. S. Post Office (Tampa) as the 1st African-American Manager of a Department. Hold Bachelors Degree in Marketing Management, Nominated as Who-Who of Business, Office of Attorney General!
Motto: “Hands That Help Are Hands That Care”
Singer
Sarah Farra
“One Breath” – Duet – from NEW MUSICAL Undercover Elves
Sarah Farra – yes it rhymes! A singer and actress, for stage and film, but most recently recognized as a co-authors / composer for the hit new Christmas musical Undercover Elves and The Gifts Of The Angel Tree. When she’s not writing or performing Sarah stays busy as a wife to her husband Daniel, mom to their 3 children, and caretaker of 2 turtles, one pup and a hermit crab. She is happy to be supporting this great group for the first time.
Singer
Samuel Panariello
“One Breath” – Duet – from NEW MUSICAL Undercover Elves
Samuel Panariello has been in the theatre world since 2020 with his debut in Cabaret, with more recent roles being Bill Sikes in Oliver!, Ducker in Firebringer, and The Baker in Into The Woods and most recently singing the part of Marcus Miller in the National Cast Album Release of the new Christmas musical Undercover Elves and The Gifts Of The Angel Tree. During the day he is also working to supply free hearing screenings to daycares to the entire state of Florida. Thanks to his amazing fiance, and everyone who has given their love and support!
Singer
Louis Fiol
“The Impossible Dream”
Louis Fiol studied theatre at Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, HB Studios, and the New School in NYC. He also studied Musical Theatre and Opera Vocal Performance at Santa Monica College and California State University in Los Angeles.
Singer
Karli Marie Gundersen
“A Way Back to Then” from title of show
Karli Marie Gundersen is thrilled to be a part of this variety show with many familiar faces. You may have seen her playing the role of Lucy in “Jekyll and Hyde”, Princess Fiona in “Shrek the musical”, Joanne in “RENT”, Nadia in “BARE a Pop opera”, Tracy Turnblad in “Hairspray” or Diana in “Next to Normal”. She has been in dozens of musicals in the Tampa area and also has been a back up singer for Josh Groban. Karli was also nominated as Best actress and vocalist for Creative Loafing’s Best of the Bay and was runner up for both categories. She wants to thank her friends and family for their constant support which drives her to continue performing in theatre.
Singer
Rob L’Ecuyer
“Unchain my Heart” by Joe Cocker
Roxtar Rob is a singer, magician, actor, and voiceover artist who believes life is meant to be lived out loud. Known online as Roxtar, Rob chose the name because it reflects his approach to life and performance—bringing energy, personality, and a little bit of magic wherever he goes. Whether he’s behind a microphone, performing a bit of magic, stepping into a character, or lending his voice to a project, Rob loves entertaining people and creating memorable moments. You can find him on most social media platforms at @RoxtarRob, where he shares his performances, music, and adventures. His original music is also available on most major streaming platforms under the name Roxtar Rob. Tonight, Rob is proud to share his love of music and performance in support of a wonderful cause and the children who benefit from it.
Singer and Improv
Lianne McDonnell-Kruger
“I’m Not That Girl” from Wicked
Bio coming soon!
Singer and DJ
Kathy McGuire
“Tribute to Irene Cara” from Legends in Lipstick
With 40+ years of experience as a performer, promoter, producer, and personal manager, Kathy McGuire aka KathySings4u provides the bedrock foundation to keep a crew of poetic dreamers in line. Her passion for orchestrating sparkling events has flourished during decades of staging live shows, parties, and fundraisers. These small and large scale events earned her the respect of entertainment and not-for-profit sector professionals in Branson, Houston, New York, and throughout Tampa Bay. Collaborating with Deb Kelley is always pure joy and she loves providing tech support to her talented cast! She thanks her Music Mentors, her boyfriend, Jay, and her family and friends for their unwavering support. Every note and every task she dedicates to the memory of her Dad. For more information: KathySings4u.com
Singer
Chonesty Osborne
“I know Where I’ve Been” from Hairspray
Chonesty Osborne is a devoted wife, mother of four, and passionate vocalist. Having grown up in foster care, she understands firsthand the challenges many children face. Through her performance of “I Know Where I’ve Been,” she hopes to inspire hope, resilience, and compassion while reminding us that every child deserves a brighter future.
Improv
Perry Bruns
Improv
Erica Garaffa
Improv
Jesse Hutson
Improv
Michael Neary
What is Life Amplified?
Life Amplified is a series of themed spoken word and talent showcases with a timely platform/message benefiting a selected local organization and is the philanthropic side of The WriteOne Creative Services.
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Life Amplified is a 100% volunteer spoken word and talent variety showcase began in January 2013 to benefit worthy local organizations helping our community. With shows bi or tri-annually each year, all proceeds raised go to the selected organization.
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Until there aren’t charities in need, Life Amplified will be here to help.
Bay News 9
Recognized as Bay News 9 Every Day Hero February 2016
Fox 13 News
Recognized as Fox 13’s Hometown Hero May 2014
“In the time it takes to make an excuse, you could be starting a movement…” ~Deb Kelley
PAST SHOWS
2013 – PRESENT
