MANSFIELD, PA— Eighty Mansfield University singers from the current Concert Choir joined former alumni choir members will embark on a fantastic opportunity to perform in a professional Broadway show under the direction of Rob Fisher in Carnegie Hall on Wednesday, April 18 at 7 p.m.
Fisher, a renowned Broadway musical director and recipient of an honorary Doctor of Music Degree from MU in 2016, invited Director of Choral Activities Peggy Dettwiler to form an 80-voice choir to sing all of the choruses in Bernstein’s comic operetta, Candide, in a benefit concert for Carnegie Hall.
This is a similar event to The Sound of Music in 2012, where Mansfield singers performed the nuns’ choruses.
Celebrations of Leonard Bernstein’s 100th birthday are happening across the country and Mansfield students are privileged to be a part of this one.
Bernstein’s Candide, based on Voltaire’s satirical tale, requires operatic virtuosity and quick delivery of text through its many “patter” songs. The flashy overture, dazzling coloratura soprano aria Glitter and Be Gay, and deeply moving Make Our Garden Grow finale are highlights. Performed in concert by professional guest artists and the Orchestra of St. Luke’s, Candide is an ideal celebration of the Bernstein centenary.
Tickets that include transportation from Mansfield are available for $105 through Benedict’s Bus Service at benedictsbus.com/index.php/theatre-dinner-shows-concerts/357-mu-choir-carnegie-hall
New York City area residents can purchase gala tickets directly from the Carnegie Hall website at this link at carnegiehall.org/Calendar/2018/4/18/0700/PM/Candide/
Dettwiler recommends purchasing ticket quickly as the hall is nearly sold-out. For more information, call (570) 662-4721 or email pdettwil@mansfield.edu