BEVERLY ¬­— When Connor Doherty, 15, of Beverly heard that the North Shore Music Theatre might have to close its doors later this month, he couldn't believe it.

Since hearing the news, he has gone to see "High School Musical 2" three times in support of theater, but he knew more would have to be done to keep the place open.

"I've been involved with this theater for so long," Connor said, "I knew just sitting around and hoping people bought tickets wouldn't get the theater anywhere."

As it turns out, many other students involved in the theater's various educational programs felt the same way. Last night, about 60 students performed on their own initiative in a cabaret on the mainstage as a fundraiser for the theater. The impromptu event attracted a crowd of about 300 and raised an estimated $8,500 from donations, a raffle and an auction.

The North Shore Music Theatre has become a popular performing arts outlet for many local children and teenagers over the years. Last night's student performances were part of the nonprofit theater's "Save Our Theatre" fundraising appeal.

Theater officials announced last week that they must raise $500,000 by the end of January and another $4 million by April to stay open. Fifty-seven staff members will be laid off Sunday, when the current season ends.

"They are heartbroken about this," said Courtney Adler, an associate producer at the theater. "For many of them, this is their home away from home. They wanted to help in any way they could."

John Newcomb, 21, of Topsfield found his passion for performing at this theater as a sophomore in high school; he now studies theater at The Boston Conservatory. He performed a song from "The Secret Garden" at the cabaret and was glad to be a part of the cause.

"The theater has done so much for me," Newcomb said. "It breaks my heart to think it might close. Not only because of the sentimental value for me, but because of the opportunities that will be cut off for future students."

Eleven-year-old Ashley Ryan from Hamilton performed a Irish step dance alongside Hannah Burke, 12, from Beverly.

"I wanted to help out because I've performed on the mainstage, and I don't want the theater to close," Ashley said. "This has always been my favorite theater. It provides good training, and I want to be able to perform here again."

So far, the theater has raised $137,000 in individual donations, not including the amount raised at the cabaret last night. The cast of "High School Musical 2" and the NSMT orchestra will also present cabarets tonight and Saturday following the regular performances. The suggested donation is $20.

"We were overwhelmed by parents and students who came forward and offered to help save the theater," said Myvonwyn Hopton, NSMT associate director of education, in a statement. "This is really their event and a demonstration of what NSMT has meant to thousands of students who have participated in its education programs."

Connor plans to see "High School Musical 2" one more time on Saturday and is hoping the theater can raise the money it needs to stay open.

"In case it does close, at least we had one more chance to perform," he said.