Scholarship Cabaret Brings Theatrics to Student Union

VALDOSTA -- Take in the splendor of the new Student Union Ballroom with exquisite flavors and Broadway hits during the 11th Annual Theatre and Dance Scholarship Cabaret Sunday, Feb. 14.

The evening themed “From Page to Stage” will start at 6 p.m. with wine and hors ’doeuvres followed by a meal. At 7:30 p.m., students will entertain the crowd with classic tunes based on poems, comic strips, books and films. VSU Theater 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 may focus on their demanding craft.

“We invite all to join us for a wonderful evening of dinner and theatre,” said Wheeler, who is also the artistic director for Peach State Summer Theatre. “Many patrons tell us how much they love watching the students as they grow during their four years at the university, and we appreciate the support of all our patrons who have enjoyed the cabaret in the past. We have many deserving students who benefit significantly from this fundraiser, which holds something for everyone.”

Michael Elliott, assistant professor of musical theater voice, will music direct the program, which features songs such as the choral setting of Robert Frost’s poem “The Road Not Taken,” and “The Impossible Dream” from the musical “Man of La Mancha,” based on the novel “Don Quixote.” Students will also sing "Blue Skies" from “White Christmas The Musical,” which is part of Peach State’s 2010 season.

The Golden Circle Scholarship and Support Fund -- a group dedicated to promoting VSU theatre/dance students and endeavors -- sponsors the cabaret each year. Honorary dramatic fraternity, Alpha Psi Omega, is an event co-sponsor.

Tickets, which include dinner, cabaret performance and a donation to the scholarship fund, cost $40 per person. Tables of eight may be purchased for $320. Checks should be made payable to the VSU Foundation with GC Cabaret in the memo line. Tickets may be purchased at the door, but reservations are encouraged. Call Associate Professor of Theatre Duke Guthrie at 229-333-5307 or e-mail him at dguthrie@valdosta.edu.

Parking is available in the Oak Street Parking Deck with a short walk to the Student Union. A shuttle service from the Oak Street deck to the union entrance across from Hopper Hall will be available. For a shuttle map and other cabaret information, go to http://www.valdosta.edu/comarts/ScholarshipFundraisingEvents.shtml .