The Contemporary Chorale, concluded its 59th season with its spring concert, “Sounds of Sondheim”. All pieces in this performance attributed lyrics or lyrics and music to the renowned composer, Stephen Sondheim. Under the direction of Artistic Director, Melanie Moore, the 60 member mixed chorus performed selections from West Side Story, Sunday in the Park with George, Into the Woods, Sweeney Todd, and more.
“Sondheim is one of the most prominent and influential lyricist-composers in the last century. I love the depth of his lyrics and the technical complexity of his songs,” commented Moore. “His works are a joy to perform and moving to hear. We were thrilled to share this show with our audience.”
In addition to The Contemporary Chorale, the performance featured guest-artist, Scott Bardin, the live accompaniment of the Chorale Combo (comprised of Scott Ayers, Eric Czechowski, Kyle Henson) and collaborative pianist, Crysta Jones. Choreographer, Becky Fudge, staged the performance.
Scott Bardin was featured in "Being Alive" from Company, "Love, I Hear" from Follies, "Live Alone and Like It" from Dick Tracy, and "Someone is Waiting" from Company. Bardin stated, “I love Sondheim, and Melanie was a delight to work with.”
Scott began working in theatre while in high school, and has continued for the last 40 years. He attended Oklahoma Baptist University with Melanie Moore, studying voice with Dr. Don Clark. He has spent the last 30 years working in the Dallas/Ft Worth theatre world, with venues ranging from WaterTower Theater in Addison, Deep Ellum Opera Theater, Theater Three, and the Music Hall at Fair Park to Mainstage I-LC, GLCT, and Onstage Bedford. He worked as a featured soloist for the Dallas Summer Musicals for 11 years, performing throughout the Dallas area. Favorite roles in the theatre include Arthur/Camelot, Frederick Graham/Petrucchio/Kiss Me Kate, Sky Masterson/Guys and Dolls, Captain Corcoran/HMS Pinafore, Charlie Anderson/Shenandoah, and Caldwell B Cladwell/Urinetown (twice!). He has begun directing in recent years, and looks forward to much more in the years to come.
Photos by Kiran Photography
