It was an invitation Staples Players could not turn down.
Awed by the high school troupe’s March performance of “A Chorus Line,” Terre Blair — the widow of Marvin Hamlisch — invited them to perform at an American Cancer Society benefit.
The event was held yesterday — the day after what would have been the composer’s 69th birthday — at New York’s Hudson Theater. They shared the stage — and were applauded by — legends like Bernadette Peters, Joel Grey and Robert Klein.
Staples Players can point to many memorable moments in their 55-year history. Last night’s stands at the top of any list.
Photographer Kerry Long captured a few of the many highlights:
Staples Players receive instructions from the stage manager.
Reacting to Broadway stars’ sound check.
Donna McKechnie — who earned a Tony for “Cassie” in “A Chorus Line” — reprises her role, backed by Players.
Players director David Roth (left) with Joel Grey. The Broadway star is known for his role as the MC in “Cabaret” — also played by Roth, in the 1st Players production of that show.
Staples Players perform “One” on the Hudson Theatre stage.
A key “Chorus Line” moment.
“Jersey Boy” John Lloyd Young performs “What I Did For Love” with Staples Player Michelle Pauker.
Staples choral director Luke Rosenberg (left), Bernadette Peters (red hair) and Broadway’s “Annie” (Lilla Crawford, front) pose with some of the Players cast. Will Smith (far right) was the evening’s announcer, as the “Voice of God.”
Joel Gray (3rd row, 4th from left) poses with the Staples Players cast and directors.
Click below (or here) to watch Michelle Pauker, “Jersey Boy” John Lloyd Young, Staples Player and Broadway stars perform “What I Did For Love.”
Memories to last a lifetime for those who participated. What a special opportunity and what a wonderful gesture by Terre Blair to have extended the invitation.
Many, many thanks to the Staples Players for coming to the American Cancer Society’s One Centennial Sensation: A Tribute to Marvin Hamlisch. You graced us with your amazing energy and pure talent, and glad you were able to share the evening with us.
A shout-out goes to Bradley, David, Kerry, Andrea, Rhonda, Luke, and Marjorie!
Best,
Jeremiah Hernandez
American Cancer Society
What a great honor and they absolutely deserved it.
Pure excellence. Pure dedication. What a wonderful band of “players.” Always impressive.
Dance 10: Looks 10: Story 10….Bravo Staples Players!
Congratulations Staples Players. Great experience. I worked on a show with Marvin many years ago. He was truly one of the most talented gentlemen in the theater.
Jim Ezzes