Photo Flash: Hugh Panaro & Janet Dacal Sing at 'Dreamer' Gala

A roster of exciting guest artists joined all five divisions of the Young People's Chorus of New York City^TM and its Artistic Director and Founder Francisco J. Núñez in their Monday, March 7, fundraising gala, "Dreamer." The concert began at 7 p.m. at Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center, where the chorus is in residence. Joining the chorus on the Rose Theater stage was Bob McGrath, marking his 42nd season as "Bob" on Sesame Street; Janet Dacal, soon to open on Broadway in Wonderland; Hugh Panaro, the star of Phantom of the Opera; 24-year-old jazz piano phenomenon Eldar, the brilliant, 22-year-old violinist Ryu Goto, and The New York Pops conducted by Mr. Núñez.

The gala evening, co-chaired by Nancy Bloom, Adam Chinn, Shauna Denkensohn, Suzan Kremer, and Hiroko Onoyama paid tribute to three remarkable individuals whose extraordinary support have been so important to the success of the chorus. YPC will honor board member David Weild III, Esq., of Edwards, Angell, Palmer & Dodge with its Humanitarian Award; David Lai, A & R producer at Sony Masterworks with its Artistic Award; and James Anderson, regional vice president at Travelers, will be presented the YPC's Corporate Award.

More than 1,300 young people participate annually in the Young People's Chorus of New York City^TM through its core after-school program, its Satellite program in nine New York City schools, and its national affiliates in Erie, Pennsylvania, and Tenafly, New Jersey. Funds raised from this gala will support general operating expenses and scholarships for many of its members in fulfillment of its mission of providing children of diverse abilities and backgrounds with a unique program of music education and choral performance that seeks to fulfill each child's musical potential, while creating a model of artistic excellence and harmony that enriches the community.

Photo Credit: Stephanie Berger