Local Youths Rent Out Theater, Screen 'Pitch Perfect 2' for Cancer Research

Cancer affects hundreds of millions of people in the United States each year, not only those who suffer from it, but their families and friends, as well. Two Westfield seventh grade students have taken on the challenge of raising money for cancer research as part of their bar and bat mitzvah projects.

Victor Coustan and Olivia Roth, seventh grade students at Roosevelt Intermediate School in Westfield, are renting out the Rialto Theater, 250 E Broad St., for its first two screenings of “Pitch Perfect 2” to raise money for cancer research on Friday, May 15.

Their goal has been to raise awareness and money for Multiple Myeloma research, as Victor’s father, Brad Coustan, is battling the disease.

“My Dad has been fighting for more than two years and that’s why I feel so strongly about the cause,” Victor said. “I hope that raising money for the (Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation) will help us find a cure.”

While fighting the disease, Brad Coustan is also blogging about his battle with cancer. Multiple Myeloma is the second most common blood cancer, according to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF).

“It’s awesome when your friends and family rally around you with support,” Olivia said. “We are really excited for a big turnout Friday.”

The fundraiser is hosting the first two screenings at the Rialto Theater on Friday evening, beginning at 4 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase at the door for $40 each which includes movie ticket, a popcorn and a drink.

(Photo of Victor Coustan and Olivia Roth courtesy of Helene Coustan)