Our Summer 2024 Festival was a tribute to the illustrious career of Tony Award-winning American musical theatre composer and lyricist, Jason Robert Brown. Known for his emotionally powerful and lyrically profound works, Jason Robert Brown has gifted us with iconic musicals such as The Last Five Years, The Bridges of Madison County, and of course Parade. His contributions to the world of musical theatre have left an indelible mark, inspiring both audiences and performers alike.
We were delighted to present this musical revue performance that featured the incredible Grammy Nominated Mykal Kilgore. Mykal is a multi-talented performer whose dynamic vocal range and charismatic stage presence have captivated audiences worldwide. A Drama Desk Award nominee, Mykal has appeared in Broadway hits like Motown the Musical and Hair, and his performance in Songs for a New World earned him critical acclaim. He has also made a significant impact in the world of music with his soul-stirring debut album, "A Man Born Black."
Earlier in the day, our students had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in a masterclass led by Mykal Kilgore himself. They worked directly with him, gaining invaluable insights and honing their craft under his expert guidance. This unique experience has been a highlight of our festival every year, and we were so excited to witness the culmination of their hard work and dedication as they shared the stage with Mykal.
PRODUCTION PHOTOS
Production Staff
Artistic/Music Director: Steven Altinel | Executive Director: Nathan Brewer | Stage Director/Choreographer: Megan Gerlach | Stage Manager: Julie Gottfried | Technical Director: Dennison DeNatalie | Photography/Graphic Design: Jenna Raynoha
Middle School Director/Choregrapher : Michelle Mallardi | Middle School Assistant Director: Emily Golden | Middle School Music Director: Molly Guarton | General Manager: Vanessa D’Aconti
The Program
SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD:
“The New World” — Mykal Kilgore Featuring: Dara Gordon, Ashlee Fucarino, Daniel Braaten, and Company
“Stars and the Moon” — Ameera Azeem, Julia Gordon, and Denver Razza
“Christmas Lullaby” — Lily Majewski and Soprano/Alto Ensemble
HONEYMOON IN VEGAS:
“I Love Betsy” — Tristan Surajbali
“Anywhere But Here” — Riley Brennan
LAST 5 YEARS:
“A Part of That” — Addison Fried
“Still Hurting” — Talese Brown
“Moving Too Fast” — Philip Leon, Connor Reilly, Daniel Braaten
“I Can Do Better Than That” — Mackenzie Olitsky
MR. SATURDAY NIGHT:
“Maybe It Starts With Me” — Julia Gordon
“There’s A Chance” — Talese Brown
HOW WE REACT AND HOW WE RECOVER:
“Invisible” — Connor Reilly (guitar), Michael Coppola, Frank Minerva, James Herard, and Company
BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY:
“Get Closer” — Mykal Kilgore and Company
“What Do You Call A Man Like That” — Sivan Laniado
“Another Life” — Keira Tantillo
“Wondering” — William Herbert
“It All Fades Away” — Connor Reilly, Daniel Braaten, William Herbert, Frank Minerva, and Tenor/Bass Ensemble
“Always Better” — Sivan Laniado, Keira Tantillo, and Company
13 JUNIOR:
“Thirteen” — Full Intermediate Company
PARADE:
“You Don’t Know This Man” — Dara Gordon
“This Is Not Over Yet” — Daniel Rubinson, Ashlee Fucarino
SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD:
“Flying Home” — Mykal Kilgore and Company