Young Talent Show Rocks The House

By Larissa Lytwyn

The air was heavy — not only with the fragrant warmth of the early May evening, but also the anticipation of the 200-plus families eager to see their loved ones on stages.

Newtown Youth Services’ annual talent show last May 7 showcased the singing, dancing, and comedic talents of students from schools districtwide.

“The performers are a mix of children who have performed before and those who are here for the first time,” said Anita Arnold of Newtown Youth Services. “It’s a wonderful event for our community. It really brings everyone together.”

Newtown High School student T.J. Muller hosted the evening, which was divided into two acts with one 15-minuted intermission.

Thirteen-year-old Christie Attanasio said she was excited to see her sister, Sarah, performing on stage as part of the dance group, The Bass.

Sarah would be performing with Megan Kirol, whose older sister, Jacqui, was friends with Christie.

Christie and Jacqui’s friend Eva Cerreta said she had attended to see her peers on stage and support the Attanasio and Kirol families. “We’re all pretty excited,” she said.

Newtown Middle School eighth graders Ben Neff and Kris Kling said they were excited, though slightly nervous, to grace the talent show stage for the first time ever. “We’ll be doing a comedy routine called ‘We Are Family,’” said Ben. “The idea to do the routine just came out of me and Kris joking around to make our friends laugh.”

The first performance of the evening was the eighth grade band Man Down, comprised of Keith Herring, David Manville, Topher Salvatore, and Garrett Udhe. The band performed a cover of the White Stripes’ “Reptilia,” to thunderous applause.

The crowd remained enthusiastic throughout the evening, peppering their applause with frequent whoops and cheers.

Newtown Youth Services Director Anthony Tozzi called the evening “heartwarming.” He said he was glad to see the community’s level of support. “It’s been a great evening,” he said.

Other performers included 9-year-old Dana Bowery, who performed “Part of Your World” from Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

The performance followed a Disney spoof performed by 13-year-old Nick and 10-year-old Corey Allred called “Be Our Guest.”

Sandy Hook School student Madelyn Good and friend Morgan Hopper Niki Haghpanah, and Savannah Rhodes-Podryski of Fraser Woods Montessori School comprised the musical group Permanent Link.

They performed a song entitled “I’m Beginning to See the Light” dressed in matching silk dresses.

“I was so nervous!” declared Madelyn, who performed with the group the first time this year. “But it was fun. I had a really good time.”

“I liked being on stage,” agreed Sarah.

Four-year-old Michael Alan Cabral of St Rose School performed a gospel song, “Open the Eyes of My Heart.” His brother, 6-year-old Jesse John Cabral, sang “God Bless the USA.”

Behind him was a patriotic-themed poster adorned with a tribute to fallen soldier and former NFL player Pat Tillman.

“Jesse sang the song last year, too,” said his mother, Carrie Cabral, noting that it was more timely a song than ever.

Following the intermission, the audience enjoyed a 15-minute video montage celebrating Newtown Youth Services’ 25th anniversary.

Each group associated with NYS, from its “Moms” groups to Newtown’s Organization to Stop Under Drinking (NO SUDS) to special annual events such as the fall and spring Independent Living Day, were all commemorated in full color.

Videographer Jonathon Argones created the tribute.

Newtown resident Kevin Koschel provided the show’s sound and light equipment. Roseanne Loring of Newtown Youth Services served as stage director.

 “All of the kids can do something,” noted Ms Arnold, “and do it well.”

The event was taped and is available to purchase for $15. For more information, contact NYS at 270-4335.