For the past decade, James Monroe High School has hosted an annual event to benefit the Choral Department. The small holiday concert has since blossomed into a themed dinner theatre production with a silent auction. This year commemorates James Monroe High School Choral Alumni by featuring them in the concert. Ms. Mandy Carr, a previous choral director, and Dr. Christopher Ryder, one of her former students, return to the stage to conduct a piece for the event. Other alumni sang under Ms. Heidi Ribel. Featured pieces include Salute to Armed Forces, Battle Hymn of the Republic, Bridge over Troubled Water, Lean on Me and favorite pieces from hit musicals Rent and Fame.
The silent auction offers weekend getaways, restaurant gift certificates, a television, pro sports tickets, Broadway tickets, along with several other exciting items. There will be a featured section in the auction for autographed memorabilia: a guitar signed by Carlos Santana, a framed Harry Potter picture signed by all three main characters, a Charles Schultz autographed sketch of Lucy, and more.
Again, this year’s concert is Saturday, November 12, 2011. Doors open for seating and the Silent Auction at 6:00PM. Heavy hors d’oevres and light beverages will be available. The concert begins at 7:00PM. If you haven’t already purchased your ticket, they will be availalable at the door. Tickets are $20. For ticket information click here - http://www.wix.com/hrribel/alumni-concert.
Remember, all ticket sales and auction proceeds go to benefit James Monroe’s choral department directly . Funds are used specifically for uniforms and District/State event fees. With budget cuts and the recession, the arts are the first to feel the pinch. It is up to the community to ensure the arts stay alive and enrich the lives of our children, friends, and family. If we don’t make the effort for what is important, who will?