The sounds of music emanated from St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church last Wednesday night. But it wasn’t the hymns you would expect. Instead it was show tunes, songs from movies and 20th century classics.
The church was hosting the Port Washington Play Troupe as part of its informal church fundraiser series in the St. Cecilia room. The three scattered evenings of song started Oct. 2, and will conclude Dec. 4. Anyone in the community is welcome to come on stage and sing a song from the Great American Songbook.
About 20 people showed up Wednesday to provide their interpretations of well-known songs, and some obscure ones. The money they donated will be used to help re-carpet the St. Cecilia Room for the church, which has supported Play Troupe since its founding in 1927.
Songs on Wednesday included popular classics like “My Way,” “That’s Life,” “Come Rain or Come Shine,” and even Elton John’s “How Wonderful Life Is.” One of the children who was in the children’s show sang “Castle on a Cloud” from Les Miserables. There was also “Mira” from Carnival, the duet “Sue Me” from Guys and Dolls, “Edelweiss” from the Sound of Music and “Meadowlark” from the more obscure musical The Baker’s Wife. The duet “Sisters” from the film White Christmas was also heard.
Play Troupe board member and professional musician David Barnett accompanies the singers on the baby grand piano.
“We’re thrilled to give back to this church, while offering a supportive environment for anyone who’d like to give performing a try,” said Play Troupe President Pam Meadows. “If you love karaoke, just imagine singing along to beautiful piano accompaniment. Anyone who enjoys singing is welcome.”
The hours for the musical interlude, dubbed “Songs for Cecilia,” are 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Participants may bring their own sheet music or choose from songbooks provided that night. Each evening concludes with a group sing-along of a well-known classic. Updates and further information are available on Play Troupe’s Facebook page and Web site, www.portwashingtonplaytroupe.com. Questions are welcome at (516) 500-2012.
