Boys AND Girls from 'Syracuse' Raise Funds New Year's Eve

What did the incredibly talented cast members of Center Stage's production of "The Boys from Syracuse" do on New Year's Eve after performing both a matinee and evening performance? They put on an amazing one hour cabaret performance that raised $1,600 from a small, intimate, and eternally grateful group of enthusiastic theatergoers.

 

 

 

I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate New Year's Eve. This was my third in a row New Year's Eve spent at Center Stage and it was no disappointment.

 

 

 

Center Stage decided to present this cabaret performance, after their acclaimed performance of "The Boys from Syracuse" as a benefit for "Broadway Cares, Equity Fights Aids". And what a success it turned out to be.

 

 

 

The audience was herded upstairs to the Head Theater for the cabaret after seeing "Syracuse".

 

 

 

Blair Ross (who does a terrific job as Madame Courtesan and does a superb "Oh, Diogenes") was the presenter who introduced each act with great panache.

 

 

 

The brave first performer was Charlotte Cohn (Adriana) who sang the delightful "Vanilla Ice Cream" from "She Loves Me".

 

 

 

Christopher Sergeef (tailor's apprentice) played his guitar and sang an original composition.

 

 

 

Kevin Free (Dromio) did a lovely country western number.

 

 

 

Rosa Curry (maid/courtesan) did a bluesy rendition of "Route 66".

 

 

 

A highlight was a dance choreographed by Jessica Wu (maid/courtesan) that she did with Kyle DesChamps (merchant of Syracuse). It was stylish, sensual, and exciting.

 

 

 

Ed Watts (sergeant) sang the ballad "Desperado" accompanying himself on the guitar.

 

 

 

Musical Director Wayne Barker had everyone in stitches playing the piano to "Somebody Broke Lola's Saucepan". You had to be there to believe it.

 

 

 

Popular Terry Lavell (tailor) did a superb turn with the ballad "I Believe I Can Fly".

 

 

 

Michael Winter (Dromio) did a stirring number from the Muppet Movie's "Rainbow Connection". I found this choice appropriate considering the incredibly diverse cast.

 

 

 

Charley Parker (Luce) performed a wonderful ballad full of soul, "Reflect the Light". She was amazing.

 

 

 

Rona Figueroa (Luciana) who has her own band and is a songwriter, performed an original composition, a blues anthem.

 

 

 

The show ended appropriately at 11:58 just in time to toast the New Year with complimentary champagne and delicious desserts.The actors distributed the lyrics to Auld Lang Syne (a nice touch) and everyone sang...and it was beautifully done. There was much time to mingle with this talented cast who were quite pleased with the reaction of the audience and their generosity which raised over $1,600 for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids.

 

 

 

"Boys from Syracuse" continues at Center Stage until January 15. This must be one of the most talented casts you will ever see. For tickets, 410-332-0033.

 

 

 

 

 cgshubow@broadwayworld.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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