Roger Ricker to Perform Benefit Concert ROCKET MAN

The Media Theatre's Roger Ricker has his annual fundraising concert on Saturday September 15. "Rocket Man" will feature Ricker singing classic hits of the '70's as well as special guests and a youth ensemble, who will sing a medley of songs from Broadway's "The Lion King".

"The theme this year is moving forward like a rocket," Ricker explained. "Working together, we are able to have a bright future."

"This annual concert has become a tradition," Ricker said. "The difference for this one is that it is happening later in the calendar year on a Saturday, as opposed to a Wednesday night in the summertime. We are opening our entire season a bit later than usual, starting with "Sweeney Todd" in October, so it seemed logical to have this fundraiser closer to the start of the 2018-19 season."

"We have been doing these Ricker shows every year for the past dozen years," Ricker explained. "They are not just fundraisers, they are FUN-RAISERS! It's like a giant party on the stage and in the audience. It's casual, fun, and full of spontaneity. If you love The Media Theatre, this is your night to be there."

A large part of the Ricker concert experience is its 'off-the-cuff' improvisational style. "We plan and rehearse the songs," he said. "But beyond that, it's not scripted at all. You never know what can happen."

Last year's Roger Ricker & Friends concert "The Together Show" was the recipient of the Broadway World Award for Best Special Event in the Philadelphia region. "It was so nice to be honored by Broadway World," Ricker stated. "Everyone involved in the concert last year was thrilled."

Ben Kapilow, The Media Theatre's Resident Music Director, will accompany Ricker and his guests on the keyboard, which is the only accompaniment used in the show. "It's simple. It's just us, the audience, a keyboard, and Ben. That's all you need."

The State Street Miracles, the theatre's performance troupe of adults with developmental disabilities, are a part of The Media Theatre family and will be singing a medley of their 'greatest hits'. "It would not be a concert without them," Ricker said.

The Volunteer of The Year Award will be given to West Chester Friend School's Rege McAden during the concert. She's been volunteering her time for a several years, coordinating large groups which attend the theatre's Broadway Series and Children's Shows. She also, with her connection to West Chester Friends School, seeks out a Scholarship student each year for the summer camp, and assists in other ways such as being a volunteer judge for the "Vocalist" contest.

For tickets to "Rocket Man" featuring Roger Ricker and Friends, call 610-891-0100 or visit mediatheatre.org. The concert is on the main stage Saturday September 15 at 7pm. "Rocket Man" is sponsored by Destination Delco, and family sponsors The Golds, The Newtons, The Shelkins, and John Whitig.

Pictured: The Media Theatre's Roger Ricker in performance.