Poughkeepsie, NY (January 25, 2018) – Illusionist Chris Dare performed his first Hudson Valley stage show “Dare to Believe” on Thursday, January 25, 2018 benefiting Abilities First, a not-for-profit organization serving the needs of over 1,400 children and adults with developmental disabilities, from pre-school through adulthood throughout the Hudson Valley. The sold out show drew over 200 attendees to the Newburgh Brewing Company in Newburgh, NY.

“Chris’s mission is to inspire others with the belief that anything is possible is in line with the Abilities First mission of providing people with disabilities and their families the support to help them reach their greatest potential,” said Melissa McCoy, Chief Advancement Officer for Abilities First.

Chris, a Newburgh native, has performed for thousands of people nationally and for corporate clients such as Toyota and GE but has also made it his mission to use his talent to give back to the community for organizations including American Cancer Society, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Abilities First.

The show brought in community partners from all over the Hudson Valley. Rascal Creative is a full-service, creative agency based in New Windsor, NY provided photography. Students from the Newburgh Free Academy’s GBTV program filmed the show. Students from the program learn how to write scripts, shoot, edit and use special effects to create short films and documentaries.

“Magic has the ability to affect others and make a difference on an emotional level.” said Chris Dare. “Locally, this will be a milestone show with never before seen magic. Collectively bringing the community together centered around a single purpose. Nothing is impossible. At times we all need to challenge our beliefs and become inspired and magic can do that in a unique and creative way. I am very excited to be partnering with Abilities First for a special night of wonder and encouraging what I call, the Dare to Believe.”

Sponsors included the Cowen Family, General Traffic Equipment Corporation, Forget Me Not Cupcakes with donations from Hudson Valley Audio Visual, Inc. and media support from HVNN.com, For Radio and K104.