Tampa, Fl.- Big Cat Rescue is pleased to announce that Ms. Donna Vivino, who plays Elphaba, lead character in the in the First National Tour of Wicked (The Emerald City Company) has been selected as recipient of the sanctuary’s 2010 “Guardian Angel” award.

Donna will be the guest of honor at the sanctuary’s Annual Fur Ball Gala on Friday, October 8th at the A La Carte Pavilion in Tampa to accept her award.

Ms. Vivino was selected to receive the sanctuary’s prestigious award in recognition of her advocation for animal and human welfare causes around the world.

Donnas’ storied career on stage has included such productions as LES MISERABLES, SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER, HAIRSPRAY, LEGALLY BLONDE and FAME BECOMES ME, starring opposite comedian Martin Short to name a few!

In the fall of 2007 Donna joined the First North American Tour of WICKED, performing in such cities as Indianapolis, Detroit, Portland, Salt Lake City, Omaha, San Antonio, San Diego, Seattle, Denver and Tampa.

While researching for the role of Elphaba, Donna watched a documentary called “Earthlings” and felt no choice but to become an animal welfare activist and vegetarian.

In WICKED, Donna Vivino plays Elphaba, who crusades to save the rights of animals.

So in a perfect confluence of themes, Donna is being recognized for her generous support of the 100+ magnificent animals that call Big Cat Rescue home as well as those around the world.

For additional information regarding Big Cat Rescue please visit: bigcatrescue.org

For Additional information regarding the Fur Ball or purchase tickets please visit: http://bigcatrescue.org/furball

Date: 5/10/2010