Philadelphia Hospitality Friends rubbed shoulders with opera stars of tomorrow during the 2008 Patrons’ reception at the highly acclaimed Academy of Vocal Arts. Judging, however, from the performance by four extremely talented young vocalists, and the rousing response of our guests to their renditions of show tunes and light opera, they have star power today.
Attendees chatted informally with Soprano Michelle Johnson, Tenor Cody Austin, Bass Jeremy Milner and Baritone Steven LaBrie before the program began. Guests had a hunch from the performers’ elegant tux and evening gown attire that the genial young people, so ready to engage in informal conversation, were not our customary Friends. Once they saw them onstage and heard their astounding voices, everyone was eager to talk with the accomplished vocalists, hear about their training in the AVA’s striking French Second Empire style home, and learn what concerts were upcoming in their busy careers.
B. A. (Mackie) MacLean, Jr., AVA’s president, as well as Christopher Macatsoris, AVA’s music director, and Davis Lofton, its master vocal coach, were on hand to present their compelling perspectives of the Academy’s exciting work and to provide a true behind-the-scenes look at what celebrated Baritone Thomas Hampson has called “one of the great and rare professional training grounds of the next generation.”
But it wasn’t all culture all the time. As usual, our reception was a hit. The exceptional hors d’oeuvres provided by STARR Events (including its signature miniature Kobe Beef Sliders as well as its creative salmon cones, which were special favorites) and the excellent Clos du Bois Chardonnay and Pinot Noir provided by VineOne, and the company of Friends who share a common love of our city made lingering guests wish the evening could go on and on.
And speaking of Friends – we note with appreciation the assistance of PECO and Drexel University College of Medicine, underwriters of this wonderful evening.
To become a Patron, please print and fill out the application form.
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