Arts & Entertainment

PR Students to Perform in Benefit for Japan Relief Effort

Proceeds from cabaret at Point Park University will go to the American Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief fund.

Cast members from "Les Miserables," the spring musical at School, are taking to the stage to raise money for victims of Japan's earthquake and tsunami.

The students have been invited to participate in the Japan Relief Cabaret at 7 p.m. Friday at Point Park University's Lawrence Hall in Pittsburgh. The admission fee is a $10 minimum donation (feel free to donate more) and the money will go to the American Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief fund.

The cabaret is organized by Tim Marquette, a Pine-Richland alum who previously served as the school's director of musical theater. He now works in Point Park University’s Conservatory of Performing Arts and is involved with professional companies throughout Pittsburgh.

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"I am throwing a cabaret to raise money for the American Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief at Point Park University with the musical theatre and dance conservatories alongside with some local professionals," he said in an email. "I have also asked the cast of 'Les Miserables' to perform with us -- and many are doing so!"  

Some of the students involved are Christine Lamendola, Megan Hawbaker, P.J. McMahon, Emily Smith, Katie Colosimo and Andy Deutsch.

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Marquette is an alum of PRHS's music theatre program. He directed the shows in 2008 ("Seussical" -- winner of Gene Kelly Award for Best Musical), 2009 ("Carousel") and 2010 ("Children of Eden" -- winner of Gene Kelly Award Best Direction and Best Musical).  

"I am so excited about this benefit -- and for such a great cause," said Marquette. "We had a rehearsal (Monday) night with the students from PR and they are so professional, enthusiastic and talented!  They are going to really impress the university students and other professionals involved in the cabaret."


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