For the first time in over twenty years, the students of Delta State University Opera will be presenting “A Tribute to Broadway” at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 29, in Jobe Hall Auditorium on the campus.
From the sounds of early shows like Kismet, with its lyrical love song “Stranger in Paradise,” to the current Broadway hit Dreamgirls and its pulsing “Move, You’re Stepping on My Heart,” to the up-beat dance finale “One” from Marvin Hamlisch’s Chorus Line, there should a number that will please every ear. The singing, dancing and costuming will certainly showcase the talents of these eager students and send the audience home whistling their favorite tune.
The performers range from blossoming freshmen to seasoned seniors. Dr. Mary Lenn Buchanan, Delta State Opera director says, “Most of the players do not have an extended background in Broadway production, but they are stepping up and creating an exciting, high-powered performance. So far, the rehearsals have been rewarding, and the students never cease to amaze me by their willingness to try anything to make the show top-notch. I can’t wait to see the final product.”
The players for this Broadway revue are Latoya Calhoun of Cleveland; Lindsey Roy, Noelle Lawrence, Dominique Smith and Patricia Thomas of Greenville; Kimberly Wright, Terrica Clayton and Josh Terry of Memphis; Joseph Abrams, Andrew Carlton, Chase House, and Gene Kachenovich of Olive Branch; Joshua Reeves of Walls; Kevin McCray of Brandon; Meg Dennis of Tupelo; Rachel Baber of Saraland, Ala., and Katie Gibson of Summerdale, Ala.
Meg Dennis choreographer, dancer, singer and a senior at Delta State, has created some original moves for the players which will make the audience want to tap their heels, jump out of their seats and join in the excitement. The show will include recorded accompaniment and the roaring sounds of Dr. Kumiko Shimizu, Delta State faculty member and coach/accompaniment at the piano.
The Delta State Opera is dedicated to providing an environment in which music education majors gain the knowledge and self awareness to emerge as successful teachers in our public schools, and performance directed students hone their skills to pursue their career in stage performance.
The event is free and open to the public. Make your plans now to attend, and get there early for a great seat.
For more information about “A Tribute to Broadway,” call the Department of Music at 662-846-4605.
