Tickets are selling quickly for Staples Orphenians’ “Cabaret Olé” fundraiser.
The March 30 event (6 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church) is a fundraiser for the elite high school choral group’s upcoming trip to the Spain Choral Festival.
In addition to hearing the talented teenagers sing, Westporters are happy to help the group raise money to ensure that every member can make the trip.
But there’s another, longer-lasting reason to support Cabaret Olé.
Some of the funds will help establish an educational music hub here.
That’s the goal of the VOCES8 Foundation. The non-profit uses workshops, concerts and more to educate and uplift students and communities — including providing opportunities for singers after high school and college.
And they’ve chosen Westport as one of their centers for that work.
VOCES8 musicians have worked with Orphenians in the past, including at the Westport Library.
VOCES8 high school workshop, at the Westport Library.
It’s no surprise that VOCES8 will take part in the March 30 cabaret.
But — surprise! — they and Orphenians will be joined by Broadway stars, including Mary Kate Morrissey (lead in Broadway’s “Wicked”) and Dan Micciche, the show’s music director and conductor.
Morrissey spent a decade touring 92 cities with “Wicked,” “Mean Girls” and “Hair,” before making her Broadway debut in “Wicked” in 2023. Micciche has been with the show for over a decade, including national and international tours.He will coach the Orphenians on their song with Morrissey.
One more surprise: former Orphenian Jamie Mann will perform too. The 2021 Staples grad — currently a senior at the University of Michigan — will be just days away from his Broadway debut in “Stranger Things: The First Shadow.”
Jamie Mann
Orphenians’ set will include part of their repertoire for Spain. They’ll join VOCES8 for at least one number. Exceptionally talented pianist Andrew Maskoff — a Staples senior — will accompany the singers.
“Everyone in Orphenians is helping with fundraising, and performing” says Staples choral director Lauren Pine. “This is a great team-building experience.”
The trip to Spain involves more than just singing in centuries-old cathedrals. Orphenians will also work with guest artists, and learn from some of the world’s top educators.
The young musicians “definitely understand and appreciate where we’re going and what we’re doing,” Pine says.
Cabaret Olé includes tapas and other light bites, and a silent auction.
And of course, plenty of music. The Christ & Holy Trinity sanctuary has wonderful acoustics — perfect for Orphenians, VOCES8, and Broadway stars.
Click here for tickets, and more information.
What a fabulous opportunity for the Orphenians! I wish we had experienced something like this back when we sang in 1971. My best to everyone. Soak up this experience of a lifetime!
👍😘😇