The Freeport Administration/Faculty Concert, an annual showcase for the depth of performing talent within the school community, took over the stage at the high school for a night of song, music, and dance to benefit those in need. "Education in the arts is the integral part of the education of every human being," said Schools Superintendent Dr. Kishore Kuncham during his opening remarks.
The program featured News12 reporter Ken Grimball as master of ceremonies. Mr. Grimball, in a surprise performance not listed in the program, sang "Ave Maria" as a nod to his formal training as an opera singer. Not to be outdone, Board of Education Vice President Debra Mulé, a trained soprano, performed Puccini's "O Mio Babbino Caro." Soprano Caitlin Donovan and bass Gustavo E. Segredo were among the other soloists.
Listed performances included the Archer Jazz Quartet, the Freeport Community Band, and Archer Street Principal Paula Lein dancing an Argentinian tango with instructor John Mazzei. Music teacher Sherill Spruill, who contributed her talents to a few different ensembles, performed "Killing Me Softly" as homage to Roberta Flack.
"A celebration of the arts by administrators, faculty members, and students certainly enriches our lives spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually. What a great night!" remarked Arts Coordinator Anne-Marie Hudley-Simmons after the show. Hudley-Simmons supported other performers as an instrumentalist and demonstrated her versatile range when she performed Rimsky-Korsakov's "Flight of the Bumble Bee" on the marimba.
Music teacher and trained soprano Monique Retzlaff was the featured singer in the show finale "Eternal Life." She was accompanied by the Administration/Faculty Chorus, a group that included vocalists from the Freeport Select Chorale.
This annual concert is held as a benefit to support local charities that help feed the hungry. Attendees were asked to bring a non-perishable food item for donation to those in need. A full barrel of food was collected and delivered to the local food pantry.
