Emily Stokes and Michael Padgett Perform at Mario Lanza Society of New York Gala Today, 9/15

The Mario Lanza Society of New York will hold another of its gala luncheons saluting the late tenor today, September 15, 2012 at 1 P.M. at Patsy's Restaurant (236 West 56th Street). Among those paying tribute to Lanza's career will be legendary soprano Elaine Malbin and featured performers soprano Emily Stokes, tenor Michael Padgett, and accompanist David Schaefer. The musical program will also include recorded selections from the illustrious careers of Mr. Lanza and Ms. Malbin.

Elaine Malbin, a star of many opera stages, will also be the Mistress of Ceremonies at the upcoming Mario Lanza Ball in Philadelphia on November 4, 2012. She recorded two duets with Lanza for an RCA album devoted to selections from his second film and has also appeared on Broadway in My Darlin' Aida and Kismet. Ms. Malbin is well remembered for her numerousappearances on radio and television and is frequently asked to be a judge in the major vocal competitions around the United States.

Soprano Emily Stokes is equally at home in opera and Broadway and has appeared in a variety of productions in the New York area. Tenor Michael Padgett and accompanist David Schaefer regularly perform together and Mr. Padgett has appeared in a number of Broadway themed productions and most recently in a series of all Andrew Lloyd Webber concerts. Ms. Stokes and Mr. Padgett will be making their debuts with the Mario Lanza Society of New York at this luncheon. For more information on Ms. Stokes and Mr. Padgett, visit their respective websites www.emilystokes.com and www.michaelpadgett.com.

Since its inception, The Mario Lanza Society of New York, with a mission of promoting and preserving Lanza's memory, has grown to over 200 members worldwide. The Society publishes a very well received 16-page newsletter, The Legacy of Mario Lanza, which contains articles about the late tenor's career, his recordings, and event information. Honorary members include opera stars Elaine Malbin and Licia Albanese. Membership in the society is $25 annually in the U.S. and $30 for those outside the country. Members receive a subscription to four issues of TheLegacy of Mario Lanza and discounted admission to all club events.

Today's September 15th event will feature a three-course menu with a cash bar. Admission is $65 for club members and $75 for nonmembers. Seating is limited. For information and reservations contact Bill Ronayne, President of the Mario Lanza Society of New York at (718) 338-8662 or via e-mail at wjronayne@optonline.net.