The summer went by so quickly! This time of year traditionally is full of activity, with performers from all across the country coming to New York City to “test the waters” of the Big Apple. I have been busier than ever, and this past summer I was happy to meet new clients from over twenty states! Speaking of the 50 states, this January I will be a judge and give musical theatre workshops for the annual Alaska Musical Theater Competition in Anchorage. Yes, the weather might be a little nippy at that time of year, but I couldn’t resist the opportunity to visit and work in that part of the country.

2009 SPRING LAKE BENEFIT PERFORMANCE

Agent extraordinaire Nancy Carson put together another wildly successful benefit performance at the lovely Spring Lake (NJ) Community Theatre to benefit the renovation of the landmark Church of the Holy Trinity. The host of the show was Allen Fawcett, known for his work on Broadway, TV, and Las Vegas stage shows. Performers included John Arthur Greene, who plays Riff on Broadway in West Side Story, Matthew Gumley, who will be in the new Addams Family musical, Eric Nelson (“13”), MacKenzie Mauzy (“Tale of Two Cities”),  Chantylla Johnson (“Color Purple” and “Lion King”), Tony Perry (“Five Guys Named Mo”), and Athena Ripka (“White Christmas” and “Grinch”). Newcomer and Spring Lake native Lindsey Hoffman returned to her roots, and dazzled the crowd as well.

Choreography was by veteran Janine Molinari, who I finally had the pleasure of meeting face-to-face. (We’ve shared many students over the years, but had never met.) After the show, there was a gala reception at the elegant Spring Lake Bath and Tennis Club.

CABARET CONCERT TO BENEFIT SAFE SPACE

Gifted vocalist Leah Bezozo will be performing a cabaret concert to benefit Safe Space. (I’ll be at the piano, of course!) Safe Space works with the city’s most at-risk children and families to get a second chance. They have built integrated systems of innovative programs for youth and families throughout Queens and Manhattan, working each day to protect youth and families by helping them develop skills that lead to self-sufficiency and personal growth. They prevent foster care placement by strengthening families, provide young adults with the skills to become self-sufficient and improve long-term health outcomes. Their mission remains urgent: to protect kids, keep them safe and help them grow.

Where: 

Laurie Beechman Theatre
407 West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036
(212) 695-6909  

Dates:            

September 12, 2009 at 5:00 PM (practically sold out)
September 17, 2009 at 9:30 PM (seats still available)

E-mail music2benefit@aol.com for ticket information

AUDITION WORKSHOPS WITH GUEST CASTING DIRECTORS!

These all-day (10am to 5pm) acting and singing workshops for students culminate in an audition with a guest New York City casting director. Denise Simon and I work on getting the class ready to meet with important casting directors, where they have the opportunity to do a scene and/or song, and receive valuable professional feedback.

Denise Simon has been involved in the entertainment industry for over 20 years as an actress, teacher, director, casting director and personal talent manager. In addition to managing the careers of many young celebrities, she has coached hundreds of young actors appearing on Broadway, television and film.

For registration and more information, please contact Denise at
(212) 501-2484.

CABARET ENCORE PERFORMANCE

Terri Troiano is doing one more performance of her well-received City Lights cabaret show at New York City’s fabulous Laurie Beechman Theatre, Saturday, October 3rd at 7:00 pm. This show features a variety of songs, many written by her favorite songwriting team, Kander & Ebb. Information and Reservations: (212) 695-6909. (Naturally, you’ll find me at the piano!)

That’s all for now… Hope to see you soon!