Sibling rivalries. Family dynasties. Students competing against teachers.
Morristown Onstage 2020 brings plenty of backstories to the Mayo Performing Arts Center tonight, Wednesday, Feb. 26, when show organizers try to prove that Year 13 is their lucky number.
The nonprofit Morris Educational Foundation (MEF) actually has amassed enviable numbers over its first dozen years — including a record $175,000 raised by last year’s talent competition for programs in the Morris School District.
“Strong schools equals a strong community,” says Melanie Smith, the new chairperson for Morristown Onstage, which features 14 amateur finalists from Morristown, Morris Township and Morris Plains.
They will compete for prize money in youth and adult categories, before a panel of showbiz pros who include two Morristown High success stories, keyboard wizard John Ginty and producer Josh Gannet.
Audience members in the 1,300-seat theater also will vote for their favorite act. Although the show is sold out, you might score a VIP ticket if you call 973-539-8008.
Smith is determined to set a new fundraising mark, now that the toughest challenge — winnowing down more than 60 acts that auditioned in December–is behind her and her volunteers.
“We’ll have a good, entertaining show for the crowd, and acts that work well together,” she promises.
“We’re always lucky to have a tough choice,” adds Chrissie Wetherbee, the new director of the Morris Educational Foundation.
TV personality Tara Bernie is back for her sixth year as emcee.
Not returning: Any of last year’s finalists. No bands this time, either — though there will be a 42-member youth dance ensemble.
Several musicians will serve up original compositions, also a rarity.
And you can count on a huge contingent of cheering kids inside the Mayo Performing Arts Center.
“It really is the place to be if you’re a middle-schooler,” says Wetherbee.
Read our profiles of all the performers, and check back later for complete coverage of what’s shaping up as another banner evening on South Street.
MORE ABOUT MORRISTOWN ONSTAGE 2020
Video preview of Morristown Onstage 2020:
