Elgin Theatre Company presents "An Enchanting Night of Music"
On Sunday, Nov. 16, pianist and composer Russell Stern and vocalist Linda Collins will present "An Enchanting Night of Music," a fundraising event to support the Elgin Theatre Company, an Elgin cultural institution since 1952. The performance will be held at 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 216 E. Highland Ave., Elgin.
Stern will perform selections from his recently released CD "Awakening" as well as selections from his first CD, "Secrets of the Night." Both CDs will be available at the concert and also can be purchased on his website, www.russellstern.com.
Collins will perform classic blues, jazz, rock and inspirational favorites, accompanied by Stern. These two talented artists have worked together in Chicago's Northwest suburbs since 1992.
Stern is an acclaimed concert pianist, composer and music director. He has regaled Chicago audiences with his artistry for more than 30 years and has performed at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls and theaters, including Carnegie Hall. His original compositions utilize his experience in many styles of music, which includes classical, jazz, rock, musical theater and new age, to express the inspiration of his heart. His recordings take the listener on a journey through life's dreams, love, celebrations, challenges, serenity and adventure.
Linda Collins, as well as being a professional vocalist, has been involved in live theater in the Northwest suburbs in recent years as an actor, director and producer. She has also directed a cable TV show in Chicago, a documentary film, and is also a composer of contemporary Christian music.
In the early part of her career, she performed as a cabaret singer in clubs in Chicago and the suburbs. She won leading roles in musical theater productions: "My Fair Lady," "Oklahoma," "Fiddler on the Roof," "Man of La Mancha," "Godspell" and "Working" to name a few. Linda captivates with her emotional, improvisational style, and will touch your heart, bringing her own beguiling and fresh interpretation to a variety of beloved tunes.
The duo worked together for 11½ years at St. Hubert Church in Hoffman Estates, where Stern was the music director and Collins was a choir member and cantor. Their collaboration continues at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Glenview, where he is currently the music director and she is a choir member and one of many gifted cantors. Stern, who is also an actor, has performed in and played for many ETC productions over the years, so he is very excited to be part of this special event. Additionally, Collins has been actively involved in ETC as an actor, director and producer, as well as an ETC board member for over five years, and is thrilled to be able to support an organization so near and dear to her heart.
Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy an amazing evening of entertainment. Also enjoy refreshments and raffle prizes, while supporting the Elgin Theatre Company.
Tickets are $25, or free for children under age 12. Tickets are available at the door or at www.elgin-theatre.org. Call (847) 741-0532 for more information.