Center Stage Performing Arts Academy

AN EVENING WITH CHRISTINA MARIE

A BENEFIT FOR THE GENESIS CENTER FOR BREAST HEALTH

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

There were approximately 195,000 estimated new cases of breast cancer in 2009.

Every 13 minutes, a woman dies of breast cancer.

Breast cancer does not discriminate based on gender, age, or ethnic background.

Approximately 2 million women who have had breast cancer are still alive in the United States.

(source: Breast Cancer.org and National Cancer Institute)

The above statistics are shocking.  Breast cancer can affect anyone and the biggest known risk factors are things we can do little about—growing older and being a woman.  For a person diagnosed with breast cancer, the emotional and physical strain plus the increased health care expenses can be devastating.  In a coordinated effort offering the latest diagnostic technology and treatment in the Quad Cities, the Genesis Center for Breast Health offers both diagnostic procedures and breast health specialists in one location. Their team approach offers the combined resources of primary care physicians, radiologists, pathologists, surgeons, oncologists, psychologists, nurses, technologists, and other support staff.

Christina Marie Myatt was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005.  After finding a lump through self-examination, her doctor sent her to the Genesis Center for Breast Health.  There she began a new journey in life - one of survivorship.  Christina underwent two surgeries, six rounds of chemotherapy, and six weeks of radiation.  Throughout her treatment, Christina continued to work full time, choreograph a show for Pleasant Valley HS, and direct and choreograph a show for Countryside Community Theatre in addition to being a wife and mother.  Now, almost five years later, Christina is doing well and owns her own performing arts academy.  She is thankful for the wonderful treatment of her doctors and for the continued care and compassion shown by the Genesis Center for Breast Health. 

2010 also marks Christina’s 40^th birthday.  As a celebration of her life and the 5^th anniversary of her survivorship, Christina Marie will present a cabaret at the Col Ballroom at 7pm on April, 3, 2010.  The evening will feature Christina on vocals, Thea Engelson on piano, and the Rod Pierson (Not-so) Big Band.  A mix of Broadway favorites and big band classics will provide an evening of music and dancing!  The show is perfect for the family and supports a great cause.  The evening will also feature a silent auction and 50/50 drawings.  There will be a cash bar available.

Tickets for the event are $15 and can be purchased at Center Stage Performing Arts Academy (563) 391-3174.  For further information, visit www.centerstage-arts.com.

Donations are being accepted for the silent auction.  To donate, contact William Myatt at whmyatt@gmail.com.

A special thanks to our sponsors Bob Walter Homes, Carl and Marie Schnock, and Center Stage Performing Arts Academy.

About Christina Marie

Christina is the owner/artistic director of Center Stage Performing Arts Academy in Davenport.  Having been bitten by the theatre bug early, Christina credits her mother for allowing her the opportunities to participate in theatre by being a wonderful chauffer before she was able to drive.  While living in New Jersey, Christina worked professionally on and/or back stage for McAteer’s and Simy Dinner Theatres and Calliope Children’s Theatre.  Christina later relocated to Cincinnati, OH to work for The Fountain Square Fools, a professional touring educational theatre—first as an actor, then stage manager, and then filling the position of Artistic Director.  Christina performed in numerous productions aboard the Showboat Majestic and was honored to present a cabaret performance as part of the opening of the Aronoff Center for the Arts.  After meeting her husband, Christina moved to the Quad Cities and worked for the Putnam Museum as their Theatrical Programming Coordinator—using theatre to teach history and science.  In May of 2008, Christina took over as Owner/Artistic Director of Center Stage Performing Arts Academy.  Christina also is the choreographer for Pleasant Valley and Davenport North High Schools.  Christina also serves as president of the board of directors for Countryside Community Theatre (where she will direct/choreograph Annie this summer).  A breast cancer advocate, Christina serves on the Komen Race for the Cure local race committee and will serve as one of the models for Trinity’s Stylin’ Against Breast Cancer fashion show and luncheon in April.  Christina is married to William Myatt and is mother to Anna, 7, and stepmother to Zachary, 11.