Support Student Performers at Scholarship Cabaret, Nov. 22-23

VALDOSTA - Experience spirited theatrics and dynamic harmonies at the 10th annual VSU Theater and Dance Scholarship Cabaret at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 22, and Sunday, Nov. 23, in the fellowship hall of St. John’s Catholic Church, 800 Gornto Rd. Doors open at 6 p.m., during which time guests will enjoy appetizers and assorted wines and tea. A dinner, including stuffed chicken breast, garlic cheddar biscuits and sautéed vegetables, will be served at 6:30 p.m. Proceeds from the hour-long performance of musical theater classics and contemporary favorites, which will begin at 7:30 p.m., has provided scholarships for hundreds of talented theater and dance students.

VSU Theater and Dance professor, Jacque Wheeler, who has been involved with the cabaret since its inception, said money raised during the event enables the department to provide passionate student artists with scholarships so they can focus on their demanding craft instead of working to pay for classes.

“These scholarships enable students to commit more fully to the program without the necessity of maintaining a part time job, and they serve as the reward for students' excellent contributions to the program," Wheeler said. "The scholarships continue to help attract students of the highest caliber to Valdosta State University’s theatre and dance programs.”

Assistant Professor of Musical Theater Voice Michael Elliott is musical director for the program, “By the Numbers,” which features a range of standards from the Beatles’ “When I’m 64” to popular love song, “Come Rain or Come Shine.” Students will also perform musical theater favorites, like the toe-tapping “Tea for Two” from the musical comedy "No, No, Nanette" and “Three Coins in the Fountain” from Stuart Ross’ "Forever Plaid."

“We have an outstanding variety of great numbers from old standards to new favorites that everyone will enjoy,” said Elliott, who has provided musical direction for the cabaret since arriving at VSU in 2005. “This year’s group of students is one the strongest we’ve had, allowing us to perform some more difficult arrangements.”

Tickets, which include the dinner, cabaret performance and a donation to the scholarship fund, cost $40 per person. Call Associate Professor Duke Guthrie, area head of VSU Theater and Dance, at (229) 333-5307, to make reservations.

The Golden Circle Board - a volunteer group of university and community leaders dedicated to promoting VSU Theater and Dance programs and raising funds for scholarships - has coordinated the event since 1998.