More than 50 residents of Colonial Courtyard and their families got a special sneak peek this weekend from two performers who are scheduled to appear April 17 at the Tyrone Area High School Auditorium at the Tyrone-Snyder Public Library’s annual concert fundraiser.
On Saturday, comedian/magician Robbie Wise and 11-year-old singing sensation Vanessa Campagna entertained the residents and guests for nearly an hour.
“It was really spectacular,” said Chuck Banas, the library board’s vice president. “We really want to give back, and since we have done some heavy fundraising, we wanted to take this opportunity to give back to the community that is supporting us.”
According to Banas, Wise took about 15 minutes to offer the audience a brief look into his slight-of-hand mastery while using humor to keep everyone on their toes.
“He was really excellent,” said Banas. “This was truly the first time I saw him, and I was very impressed with his performance.”
Following Wise’s performance, 11-year-old Vanessa Campagna, the runner-up in the 2003 CBS Star Search contest, showed her vocal talent, spending about 20 minutes performing for the crowd.
“The residents were really caught up with her personality and her ability to sing,” said Banas. “If this weekend’s performances were anything like what they’ll do on April 17, those buying tickets will sure be happy they came.”
The show is being headlined by the 1960s band known as The Vogues.
According to Banas, ticket sales have been solid. As of this morning, Banas said 635 tickets have been sold.
“So far, this is the best selling concert yet,” said Banas, noting that about 100 more tickets have been sold for the April 17 show than the show featuring The Marcels in July. He also said sales are about 200 more than the first show last February featuring Jimmy Beaumont and The Skyliners.
Banas said in January, when the April concert was still being organized, he had a vision of selling 700 tickets for the show.
This, he said, would generate enough profit for the library to pay one year’s worth of mortgage payments for the new building project.
Banas said the advertising outreach is just beginning and hopes making annoucements about the concert in the Altoona and State College areas will generate some income.
Still, advertising is available for the concert program. Contact 684-7929 for more information.
The show is set to begin at 7:30 p.m. at the auditorium. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.
Banas said those attending should expect a two to three hour show, complete with intermission times giving ticket buyers a chance for autographs and photo opportunities. He said there are many surprises in store, as well as special appearances.
For ticket information, contact Banas at 684-7929, or any library board member.
Meanwhile, the move is still on downtown as volunteers are working feverishly to prepare the new facility for its grand opening.
“We don’t have a concrete date set yet,” said Banas, “but we’re hoping for early April.”
Banas said books will be placed on the shelves this week and referenced into the computer system.
