“You can always go downtown” sang the audience of the Sacred Heart University (SHU) Community Theatre as they took a trip to downtown Fairfield for a musical performance by “The Midtown Men” as part of the SHU Performing Arts Benefit.
Held on Oct. 26, it was in honor of SHU President John J. Petillo for his contributions and continued support of the Performing Arts Program. This benefit reached out to alumni, friends, family and the community all in celebration of the students and their growing achievements.
In addition, the event helped raise funds for a new endowed scholarship, specifically for performing arts students.
Mark F. Conrad, Sacred Heart University
The Midtown Men performed at the SHU Community Theater on Oct. 26 to raise money for an endowed scholarship supporting students in the performing arts.
“We raised over $300,000 for scholarship and specifically for scholarship in the performing arts. So that is pretty transformational,” said Paul Sutera, Senior Vice President of Advancement.
Sutera believes that events like this are the best ways to showcase and support the students. “It’s a special place, and the more we’re able to share those stories and help students to come and earn a degree, I think the better off we’ll be as a university,” said Sutera.
According to their website, “The Midtown Men” are a high-octane musical tour de force, celebrating the ‘60s with seasoned Broadway performers from the Original Broadway cast of “Jersey Boys.” The group includes Tony Award winner Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard and Tony-nominated J. Robert Spencer.
“I had never heard of the Midtown Men Before. I enjoy theatre, and performed in musicals throughout high school, but what really draws me in is dance and movement,” said senior Corinne Bain. Bain is a member of the Dance Ensemble at Sacred Heart and felt the night was a great chance to see the arts and get off campus.
Bain highlighted the event as an opportunity to help share how grateful the students were for the consistent support they have received from the university and the community.
“A favorite moment for many of my friends and I is when Dr. Petillo stops by to congratulate us and wish us luck,” said Bain. “The SHU community really comes out and supports the arts at all our shows.”
Sacred Heart is committed to their continued support for all students with their campaign “Now We Lead.” The donations for this fundraising campaign go towards scholarships for students.
“I’ve been performing my whole life, and I always knew that it was something I’d want to continue on as a hobby. At SHU, there are so many classes that can help me improve my skills and also enjoy new and different opportunities,” said freshman Lilia Cavaliere-Hill.
Cavaliere-Hill is a part of the concert choir and believes that the importance of the event cannot be underestimated.
“This scholarship will benefit the future of the Performing Arts Program in many areas and will give a lot of student’s opportunities,” said Cavaliere-Hill.
