This summer there is a unique and exciting event happening in Cape May, New Jersey. The event, AN EVENING AT THE CAPE MAY SUMMER CLUB, features a few of Philadelphia's favorite actors, as well as performers from the Great White Way. During this concert, audiences heard American Songbook favorites with tight harmonies, from the very talented Jeff Coon, Fran Prisco and JP Dunphy. In addition to these three performers, a few other guests entertained audiences with their voices, wit and talent. AN EVENING AT THE CAPE MAY SUMMER CLUB is definitely an enjoyable evening filled with a variety of talented individuals.
AN EVENING AT THE CAPE MAY SUMMER CLUB is a labor of love for Jeff Coon. Coon is from Cape May, New Jersey and this show is his way of giving back to the community that supported him growing up. According to the press release, "[AN EVENING AT THE CAPE MAY SUMMER CLUB] is an evening of live entertainment that you will not get anywhere else at the Jersey Shore. The shows will highlight music from the Golden Era of Song, Broadway Standards and Shore Favorites specially created for each EVENING AT THE CAPE MAY SUMMER CLUB." In addition to the great entertainment, there is also a scholarship being awarded to students at the Lower Cape May Regional School District who are involved in the live arts. This is another way that Coon is giving back to the Cape May community.
I had the privilege of attending the second concert of the series, and the show not only featured Jeff Coon, Fran Prisco, and JP Dunphy, but also Tony Braithwaite, Mark Stuart and Mindy Wallace, Dave Jadico and Becky Gulsvig. The show began with Coon, Prisco, and Dunphy singing music from the Golden Era, as well as a medley of songs from GUYS AND DOLLS. The combination of these three fine performers was a great way to open the show. Prisco's personality and superb voice was highlighted in "I Get a Kick Out of You." Coon was spectacular and entertaining in his rendition of "Straighten Up and Fly Right." JP Dunphy crooned to the audience in "It Had to Be You," which was a perfect fit for his smooth voice. In addition, Becky Gulsvig was delightful as she perfectly combined the art of storytelling and song. Her performance in "That's Life" was spectacular. Mark Stuart and Mindy Wallace performed an original dance routine, and they were remarkable. This past show also showcased the talents of two wonderfully funny men, Dave Jadico and Tony Braithwaite. Jadico's routine is part comedy, part mime and part magic act. He brings a great deal of energy to his performance and his act was very entertaining. Rounding out this wonderful night of entertainment was Tony Braithwaite. Braithwaite performed parts of his show, DIDN'T YOUR FATHER HAVE THIS TALK WITH YOU?, which was recently produced at Act II Playhouse. His routine is hysterical, and showcases Braithwaite's wit and comedic brilliance onstage. It was a pleasure to see this entire group on stage, they appeared to be having as much fun as the audience, which made this a memorable and enjoyable evening for everyone. In addition to these great performers, AN EVENING AT THE CAPE MAY SUMMER CLUB features a live 17-piece band, which is conducted by Larry Lees.
AN EVENING AT THE CAPE MAY SUMMER CLUB is an evening of wonderful entertainment and fun that would be the highlight of any shore vacation. There is only one more concert left on August 30, 2014. For more information about this event and to purchase tickets, visit their website at www.capemaysummerclub.com.
Photos courtesy of Jeffrey Coon
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