DIVA by DIVA A Celebration of Women

is Western New York's longest running theatrical production. Mary Kate O'Connell, Artistic/Executive Director of O'Connell & Company, has created a fast-paced cabaret-style format of songs, readings, poetry, humor & quotes by, for, & about women. “DIVA by DIVA...” was originally scheduled to run for two weeks & now, 16 years later, audiences still flock to share in the “DIVA experience.” The show

is "gender specific" but not "gender exclusive" ... men enjoy it too! The ever changing “DIVA by DIVA...” cast is drawn from all aspects of the Western New York community ... performing arts, the business & corporate arenas as well as the private & philanthropic sector - making this an extraordinary network of remarkable women. At any given performance the cast of “DIVA by DIVA...” can range in size from 7 to 27 and might include a politician, a singer, a teacher, an actress, an international banker, a cancer survivor ... a sister, a daughter, a mother, a friend. All of these women join together, giving their voice and talent to, as O'Connell puts it, “redefining the DIVA ... it's a happening, really. ” Over the years more than 300 women have been a part of the DIVA by DIVA...” cast and it has proven to be the perfect fund raising tool. DIVA performances have helped raise a great deal of money for women & children's charities in the WNY community. No two shows have ever had exactly the same cast or the same script. Performers arrive an hour before the show, dressed in “DIVA” black and sparkly jewelry, they gather, chatter, get their scripts, a few directors notes & on with the show.