Kelley Arlt and Shawn Holmes share two passions that aren't usually connected: theater performance and volleyball. However, an upcoming fundraiser in a local tavern celebrates their love for both.

Skylight Volleyball Fundraiser is an all-day volleyball tournament and social event at Fat Daddy's, 120 W. National Ave., that will raise money for Milwaukee's beloved Skylight Music Theatre.

The fundraiser is set for Saturday, June 14. Doors open at 11 a.m. and the tournament starts at noon. There are two ways to participate:

1. Organize a volleyball team of at least six people. The cost is $180 ($30 per player) and includes two pitchers of Boston Beer Company beer. The format is pool play followed by a playoff bracket. Prizes will be awarded to the top two teams. Go here to sign up or for more information. (Teams are also welcome to sign up at the bar on the day of the event.)
2. Or, stop by Fat Daddy's anytime during the event for drink specials, 50/50 raffle, food truck fare and summertime camaraderie.

"It's a tournament with a lot of time for socializing," says Arlt.

All of the proceeds from the tournament will go to The Skylight Music Theatre, a signature move from Fat Daddy's owner, Stef Jaksic. "Stef has supported the LGBTQ, theater and sports community since day one," says Holmes. "And it's very apparent with the loyalty of her patrons."

Holmes, an ER nurse and Skylight actor with 20 shows under his belt, is also an avid volleyball player. He's been on a quest to unite the two groups.

"Last season, I took my volleyball team to a Skylight show. They had never been to a theater event and they sat in the front row and were hooting and hollering. They loved it," says Holmes.

Arlt, who has served as the Skylight's Box Office manager for 18 seasons, is also a part-time bartender at Fat Daddy's and volleyball player. She, too, is eager to raise funds for the theater, but also to raise awareness.

"Skylight is such a hidden gem in Milwaukee," says Arlt. "We want more people to know how amazing it is and how important it is to the community."

Arlt says it's been a challenge to restore pre-pandemic attendance, and so the theater is focusing on donations to keep the curtain up. "It's not just ticket sales that get us through the season," says Arlt. "We need the help of the community."

Skylight Volleyball Fundraiser will intersect two unique groups of people – theater and sports – along with folks who wanna come out, support an important cultural resource and have a good time.

"Come and play volleyball or don't come and play volleyball. Just show up, get a little tipsy and support the Skylight," says Holmes. 

For more information and/or to register a team, go here.