Phoenix Boys Choir to Host 2015 Gala, 10/17

Join stars of the Valley theater and musical performance scene for a night of glitz and glamor, when the Phoenix Boys Choir presents "That's Entertainment," the group's annual gala celebrating 68 years of musical magic and artistic excellence.

"That's Entertainment" will be held 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, at Steele Indian School Park Memorial Hall, 300 W. Indian School Rd.

"The gala is our opportunity to celebrate the decades of excellent artistic education the Phoenix Boys Choir has provided countless young men," said Maestro Georg Stangelberger, The Harvey K Smith Artistic Director of the Phoenix Boys Choir. "Both longtime patrons and those new to the Phoenix Boys Choir will see a show packed with energy and excitement, with something for everyone."

"That's Entertainment" is a fundraiser for the state's flagship youth performing arts organization, where members of the Phoenix Boys Choir will perform popular songs from stage and screen accompanied by a "who's who" of Valley actors and musical soloists. The night also includes award presentations to two long-time supporters of the arts in the Valley, Phoenix Theatre's Producing Artistic Director Michael Barnard and Sal Rivera, partner and shareholder of Rivera Law Group, P.C.

"This year's gala combines the best of the Phoenix Boys Choir and talent from the Valley," said Mary K. Farrington Lorch, gala chair. "That's Entertainment will truly be a night that must be heard to be believed! I hope everyone who loves music, performs music, and supports our arts community will come enjoy the experience."

"That's Entertainment" performances will be directed by Damon J. Bolling, an Arizona native with extensive artistic credits. A member of Actors Equity, Bolling has performed in both touring shows and on Broadway. He has acted in over 40 productions Valley-wide, and directed projects with Mesa Encore Theatre, Phoenix Theatre, Desert Foothills Theatre, Fountain Hills Theatre and the ariZoni awards.

Serving as the evening's host and Master of Ceremonies will be Toby Yatso, Phoenix Theatre's Artist-in-Residence. Yatso has graced Valley stages in numerous roles, including Alex in Buyer & Cellar, Bert inMary Poppins, Leo in The Producers, Paul in Company, Corny Collins in Hairspray, and others.

The evening's special guest performers cover a diverse array of styles and experience ranging from opera to stage musicals:

Matravius Avent

Avent has performed with both Opera Colorado and Central City Opera. Since moving to Arizona, Matravius has been active in the local theater community. His most recent performance was the role of Tin Man in Mesa Encore Theatre's The Wiz. Other notable performances include Dreamgirls and Soul of Broadway.

Chanel Bragg

Bragg is a longtime performer, with roles inDreamgirls, A Raisin in the Sun, Rent, and Doubt,among others. Bragg is the co-creator of the Soul of Broadway Cabaret Troupe, as well as a featured vocalist in a top 40 professional cover band, The Instant Classics.

Kristen Drathman

Drathman is a classically-trained performer, having sung around the world. Her performances have ranged from the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, Spain to Brooklyn Conservatory Summer Opera Festival. In the Valley Bragg has performed with the Phoenix Symphony.

Alexia Lorch

Alexia Lorch is a performer of diverse talents, most recently seen on Phoenix Theatre's main stage in the Musical Theatre Intensive Showcase, and with roles inCabaret; Noises Off, A Nightmare's Holiday, The Spitfire Grill and Phantom among others.

In addition to captivating performances, guests will have the opportunity to participate in both live and silent auctions in support of the Phoenix Boys Choir. Encouraged by auctioneerRich Dahlquist, a former meteorologist who changed careers to help worthy causes like the gala, attendees can even get the jump on bidding early to fund these life-changing educational programs starting Oct. 1, by visiting phoenixboyschoir.org.

To cap off all these delights, gala-goers will dine in style with dishes prepared by The Herb Box catering company, providing creative cuisine that is both innovative and accessible, while the Arizona School for the Arts Woodwind Quintet performs.

"Supporters of the Gala will be uplifted by the evening, and especially the performance offered by our talented boys," said Phoenix Boys Choir Executive Director Kristen Bruskas. "Our world-class educational program relies on the support of the community, and we are grateful for investing in our legacy for the past 68 years, and we look forward to an even brighter and more harmonious future through your generosity."

Tickets for the event are $200 and can be purchased online at phoenixboyschoir.org.

About the Phoenix Boys Choir:

Founded in 1947, the Phoenix Boys Choir offers programs featuring training in voice, music theory, and performance for boys ages 7 to 14. The Phoenix Boys Choir, through educating boys in the art of singing and performing the finest music in the boy choir tradition, develops character, discipline, leadership, global awareness, and a strong commitment to excellence, thereby contributing to the greater Phoenix musical life and enhancing Arizona's cultural reputation nationally and internationally. Members of the Phoenix Boys Choir receive a world-class music education and one of the most significant experiences of their lives.

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