AU President Dr. Evans Whitaker and First Lady Diane Whitaker cordially invite the public to the annual President’s Gala. A host of talented singers, dancers and instrumentalists will present the free concert on Friday, April 19, 2013 at 8:00 pm.
In its sixth year, the President’s Gala has become a beloved event for the arts in The Upstate of South Carolina. The program features top performers from the AU College of Visual and Performing Arts.
Singers from the music and theatre departments along with the AU orchestra, brass quintet and string quintet will take on a variety of musical genres designed to give any audience member something memorable to take home with them.
“The 2013 President’s Gala aims to deliver all this and more with a wide variety of student performances, from the Anderson University Orchestra to inspiring solo dancers, singers and instrumentalist,” says David Larson, Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts. “Along with established ensembles, students from across the music and theatre departments have stepped up with polished renditions of “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Soul Man,” “Blues in the Night” and “They Can’t Take That Away From Me.” Featured ensembles include the jazz ensemble, the brass quintet, the piano ensemble – Noteworthy, the guitar ensemble and the AU Choir.
Musical theatre numbers will include “Join the Circus” from AU’s award-winning production of Barnum, and “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat,” from Guys and Dolls. The 2013 gala will also feature two special numbers from the famous Electric Light Orchestra – Mr. Blue Sky and Rock Aria.
The performance will culminate in a stirring rendition of “Impossible Dream,” from Man of La Mancha, featuring the AU Symphony, University Choir and soloists.
All are welcome to come and enjoy this free night of culture and entertainment, but tickets are required. Pre-concert music will be presented outside the Rainey Center, in the lobby and onstage beginning at 7:30 p.m. The President’s Gala will be held in the Henderson Auditorium of the Rainey Fine Arts Center. Call (864) 231-2080 for tickets or (864) 231-2000 for more information.
Admission is free, but a full house is expected so patrons are encouraged to get their tickets early.