
ITA Commemorates Partnership Event with Four Star Arts, Side-by-Side by Sondheim
After months of planning, promotion, choreography, and rehearsals, Side-by-Side by Sondheim: A Musical Celebration was ready to raise the curtain. Performers of Four Star Arts Theatre Company took the stage at Nichols Concert Hall Saturday, August 12 at 7:30pm to perform a rendition derived from the original Broadway production. The concert served to benefit ITA while showcasing the exceptional talent of Four Star Arts, which included a group of far-ranging singers and a pianist.
This year’s performance featured a diverse array of Stephen Sondheim songs from Company, Follies, A Little Night Music, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Anyone Can Whistle, and Pacific Overtures among many more classics made up a compilation of recognizable and sweet-sounding pieces. The folksy, forthright production was enjoyable for both musical theatre newcomers and enthusiastic Sondheim followers alike.
The benefit was successful in netting $2,476 toward ITA’s financial aid program for creative arts therapy patients in need of payment assistance, supporting ITA’s efforts to provide unique therapeutic experiences for individuals throughout the Chicagoland area.
ITA wishes to thank Four Star Arts President Andrea Tucci, the Four Star Arts cast and crew, the Music Institute of Chicago, the Benefactor and Friend of the Arts Sponsors, the event’s donors, attendees, volunteers, and ITA therapists, staff, and interns who were hugely instrumental in organizing a spectacular, one-of-a-kind night. We hope to see you next year!