Tony Award-winning conductor Stuart Malina led a 30-piece orchestra Sept. 16 in a presentation of Broadway Sings for OPAS (Oconee Performing Arts Society), featuring musicians culled from orchestras like the Atlanta Symphony, The Augusta Symphony, The Macon Pops and The Atlanta Opera.
Malina got the evening off to a rousing start with the music of West Side Story. His witty banter and steady baton were among many highlights of a memorable evening at Greensboro’s Festival Hall.
OPAS highlighted three singers throughout the night. Mamie Parris, direct from School of Rock, Wicked, and Cats, belted songs to the stratosphere while staying in character for each of her pieces. She delivered a powerhouse rendition of 'The Wizard and I' from Wicked, and her performance of 'Memory' was stunning. It is no wonder Andrew Lloyd Webber hand-selected her for the part in his recent revival.
After 2,700 performances as Christine in The Phantom of The Opera, Lisa Vroman remains in her prime. She has a beautiful sense of humor, and her soprano still soars.
She visibly teared up upon announcing the closing of the classic show that defined her career. It gave her performance of 'Think of Me' special meaning.
The surprise of the evening was OPAS Artistic Director Doug LaBrecque. Many in the audience were unaware of LaBrecque's celebrated singing career and after being introduced by Malina as a 'bonafide Broadway star,' LaBrecque delivered. His command of the stage and stunning tenor voice brought the audience repeatedly to its feet. A veteran of hit Broadway shows like Show Boat, Les Misérables, and The Phantom of the Opera, LaBrecque’s career also includes singing with more than 125 symphony orchestras worldwide.
OPAS will present its annual gala, Soiree en Blanc & Noir, on Nov. 4, followed by A Thanksgiving Jam Session with Morgan James on Nov. 26, and Fa-la-la on Dec. 16, to put everyone in Christmas cheer.