If you've never been to a show at the Long Center for Performing Arts, you should. It's pretty damn cool with its state-of-the art theaters, top-notch acoustics, and stunning architecture. Harry Connick Jr., Liza Minnelli, and Kathy Griffin are just a few of the stars to grace the stages of Austin's creative home. One time I was even allowed on stage (for a tour) and thought, "bet it's cool to perform up here."

I suspect there are tons of other people (with actual talent) like local musicians, comedians, and actors who would love to perform inside Dell Hall, Rollins Theater or on the City Terrace. But most of these up and coming stars are not rolling in the kind of dough it takes to rent out one of these facilities. That's where the Redd Carpet Fund can help. Named for long-time Austin arts advocate and Long Center Executive Director Emeritus Cliff Redd, the fund underwrites a portion of the rental and production fees associated with putting on a show in one of the theaters.

"At the Long Center we believe that the performing arts are essential to our community’s quality of life," Redd said. "Austin’s arts organizations, from the smallest to the largest, deserve access to facilities that reflect their important contributions.

The fund, previously known as the Boost Fund, started in 2007 and has awarded more than $70,000 in rental subsidies to about 30 Austin-based arts organizations. Wednesday night this year's efforts to raise money officially launched and they are hoping the money starts rolling in.

Aside from getting that fuzzy feeling you get when you do something good, contributing to the Redd Fund comes with some perks. Anyone who gives$100 gets tickets to the upcoming Long Center Cinema production. Of course the more you give the more you get. If you're considering donating millions I bet they'd name a theater after you!

So give a little so more of Austin's talented artists can enjoy some of the perks that Liza, Harry, and Cathy do.