The Pope sure can command a crowd. Before Pope Francis' Mass at Madison Square Garden next week, Broadway stars, pop singers and other celebrities will populate a two-hour pre-show featuring prayer and devotional music.
According to The New York Times, among the performers are ON YOUR FEET!'s Gloria Estefan, THE COLOR PURPLE's Jennifer Hudson, THE KING AND I's Kelli O'Hara, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA's Norm Lewis, stage and screen star Harry Connick Jr. and more.
The show, titled A JOURNEY IN FAITH, will also feature Martin Sheen, James (D Train) Williams, the Broadway Inspirational Voices and the St. Charles Borromeo Choir.
For tickets, head to your parish in New York City or your local New York State parish. Attendees are being advised to arrive at 2 p.m. on September 25, though Mass doesn't start until 6:30 p.m. The concert starts at 3 p.m.
Other pre-service activities will include opportunities to purchase "papal merchandise, religious and catechetical material" and give confession.
The Pope moves on to Philadelphia after his September 24-26 stop in New York City.
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