As many members of our community know, Horizons of Kent County offers a high-quality learning experience outside of the traditional school year that supports academic achievement and cultural enrichment for many of our public school children from financially disadvantaged families. Students participate in a rich academic curriculum and explore music, theater, art, swimming and other activities that cultivate creativity, confidence, and leadership. Our local Horizons program is one of the oldest of a growing network of over 40 local Horizons programs around the country.
Running our program costs money, and on Saturday evening, July 19, we received very substantial support from “ShowStoppers II: Another Night of Broadway’s Best,” presented in the Decker Theatre at Washington College. The theater was packed, the music was wonderful, and many of our Horizons’ students had a rare opportunity to strut their stuff with professional performers.
Many hands contributed to the success of this show. But we wish to particularly express our appreciation to its creator, acclaimed Broadway producer Mark Bramble, who was willing to give generously of his time and considerable talents to once again bring Broadway to Kent County. Those who assisted Mark in rehearsals over the many weeks leading up to the big night are too numerous to mention here, but they included two more Broadway veterans—Paul Masse and Karen Prunzik—and longtime music educator Julie Lawrence. In addition to many of our Horizons’ students, the stage was filled with a host of talented musical performers from near and far. Off the stage but equally important to making it happen for us were Art and Mary Sue Willis and Holly Bramble.To all of you and many others, we give our grateful thanks.
We also wish to thank the many community members who came out to see the show. We are well aware that there are many causes in Kent County worthy of support, and many ways to spend a Saturday night. We are grateful for your enthusiastic participation in a truly memorable and uplifting evening.
John Christie
President
Board of Directors
Horizons of Kent County
Bobbie Chase says
Editor,
Horizons of Kent County is an impressive cause for us to support for the wonderful work they do in working with youngsters of promise when school is out to help them avoid the “summer slide” in their academic pursuits. Saturday night’s fundraiser, SHOW STOPPERS, was first rate from the first note sounded. With voices from Sombarkin, the Chester River Chorale, professional and semi-professional singers and musicians to the 13-year-old tap-dance duo, the evening was pure enchantment! The icing on this theatrical cake were the Horizons kids! Kudos to Mark Bramble and the others who chose to include them in SO MANY of the numbers. We theatre-goers got to see first hand the kids – and faculty – we are supporting by attending this venue. Many of us agreed this was a life-changing experience for many of these children – and we know one star was definitely born on Saturday night!! No need to go to New York City, for Broadway was right here in Chestertown this past weekend.