Marisa Tomei, Rob Morrow, Rosanna Arquette, Lois Smith and Rudy Pankow to Headline ‘This is Crazy!’ Benefit for NAMI in Honor of Chris Huvane

Jane Fonda, Edie Falco, Mark Ruffalo, Rachel Hilson, Sanaa Lathan and Lois Smith took the stage in New York City last September to help stage This is Crazy!, a new work from V, the Tony Award-winning playwright formerly known as Eve Ensler. Mounted as a benefit for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in honor of beloved talent manager Chris Huvane, it raised nearly $500,000 for the cause.

A West Coast version is on the horizon. Set for Oct. 13 and presented as a one-night-only benefit performance and after party at The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, Calif., the show will star Marisa Tomei, Rob Morrow, Rosanna Arquette, Rudy Pankow, Rachel Hilson, Colette Hayes, Luke Ferrari, Olivia Oguma and Smith with additional participants still to be announced. It is said to explore themes of mental illness, family, survival and the “complexity of the human experience.”

The show originated as an idea by CAA’s Community & Impact (formerly CAA Foundation) in memory of Huvane. Producers include Ruth-Ann Huvane, a mental health advocate and NAMI national board member, and Tony Montenieri, executive producer of Lotus Productions. 100 percent of proceeds from the performance benefit NAMI.

“Chris was adored by all who had the honor of knowing him. He was outspoken about living with and battling depression for years before he died by suicide. His experience taught us the importance of providing help and support for people and families affected by mental illness,” said Ruth-Ann Huvane. “To honor the life and legacy of Chris, my family and I are committed to supporting NAMI’s mission to provide advocacy, education, support, and public awareness about mental illness.”

Added NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr.: “We’re deeply grateful to V, Ruth-Ann, and everyone who has made this performance possible. We’ve seen how storytelling can open conversations, challenge stigma, and help people feel less alone. The support from this performance will help NAMI continue connecting people and families with the resources, support, and community they need.”

Tickets are on sale.