Sir Shefik Macauley

Technologies: HTML5, CSS3 Animations, jQuery

Whether helping pilots understand the latest aviation protocols, connecting natural products manufacturers to the most cost effective ingredient suppliers, or keeping engineers up-to-date on new efficient designs, Penton’s leading business information brands are the vital source for business. We are the heart of our markets. At Penton, we are all about providing relevant information and connections. Our solutions are tailored to the needs of our audience, which is why it takes so many forms –… Show more

Whether helping pilots understand the latest aviation protocols, connecting natural products manufacturers to the most cost effective ingredient suppliers, or keeping engineers up-to-date on new efficient designs, Penton’s leading business information brands are the vital source for business. We are the heart of our markets. At Penton, we are all about providing relevant information and connections. Our solutions are tailored to the needs of our audience, which is why it takes so many forms – digital, print, live events. While longevity doesn’t necessarily correlate to success, the dozens of Penton brands in 17 distinct markets do have long embedded traditions of editors, sales, and service personnel who really live their markets. And nurturing such talent has been a hallmark of Penton for decades. Today, more than six million professionals rely on Penton products for the information needed to compete and the connections needed to succeed. Show less

Technologies: Drupal

Technologies: WordPress

"Mean Girls" is a 2024 American musical teen comedy film directed by Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr. (in their feature directorial debuts), from a screenplay by Tina Fey. It is based on the Broadway musical of the same name, which in turn was based on Mark Waters' 2004 comedy film, both written by Fey and based on Rosalind Wiseman's 2002 book "Queen Bees and Wannabes". It stars Angourie Rice, Auli'i Cravalho, and Christopher Briney, with Reneé Rapp reprising her role from the stage musical,… Show more

"Mean Girls" is a 2024 American musical teen comedy film directed by Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr. (in their feature directorial debuts), from a screenplay by Tina Fey. It is based on the Broadway musical of the same name, which in turn was based on Mark Waters' 2004 comedy film, both written by Fey and based on Rosalind Wiseman's 2002 book "Queen Bees and Wannabes". It stars Angourie Rice, Auli'i Cravalho, and Christopher Briney, with Reneé Rapp reprising her role from the stage musical, while Fey and Tim Meadows reprise their roles from the original film.

Paramount Pictures announced the film's development in January 2020, with Fey returning to write the screenplay and serve as a producer alongside Lorne Michaels. Composer Jeff Richmond and lyricist Nell Benjamin returned to rework their songs from the stage musical. Principal photography took place in New Jersey between March and April 2023. The film was originally set to premiere on the streaming service Paramount+, but in September 2023, the distributor opted to release the film theatrically first after the film received positive test scores.

"Mean Girls" premiered in New York City on January 8, 2024, and was theatrically released in the United States by Paramount Pictures on January 12, 2024.

In the film "Mean Girls", 16 year-old homeschooled Cady Heron moves back to the United States from Kenya with her mother and attends North Shore High School. Cady befriends outsiders Janis 'Imi'ike and Damian Hubbard, who introduce her to the various cliques, and warn her to avoid the Plastics, who consist of the doubtful Gretchen Wieners, unintelligent Karen Shetty, and "queen bee" Regina George. Regina invites Cady to join the Plastics. Janis uses this as an opportunity to convince Cady to infiltrate the group for her. Within a pivotal moment of the film, Shefik appears as Parent, along with other parents, teachers, and students.

Credits

- Director: Samantha Jayne
- Director: Arturo Perez Jr.
- Parent: Shefik Show less

With more than 700 stores in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Belgium, France, and United States, SNIPES is one of the most successful sneaker and streetwear chain stores in Europe. Since opening its first store in Essen, Germany in 1998, SNIPES has been an integral part of the urban scene and is constantly growing thanks to regular openings.

Encompassing hip-hop and urban sports like dance, basketball, BMX, and skateboarding, at SNIPES everything revolves around… Show more

With more than 700 stores in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Belgium, France, and United States, SNIPES is one of the most successful sneaker and streetwear chain stores in Europe. Since opening its first store in Essen, Germany in 1998, SNIPES has been an integral part of the urban scene and is constantly growing thanks to regular openings.

Encompassing hip-hop and urban sports like dance, basketball, BMX, and skateboarding, at SNIPES everything revolves around a contemporary lifestyle and urban youth culture. This dynamic mix not only characterizes a whole generation, but also grants the SNIPES stores their unrivaled atmosphere.

SNIPES has so far managed to attract greats, such as DJ Khaled, Wiz Khalifa, Dennis Schröder, Snoop Dogg, and Rick Ross as faces to represent the collections of its own brand. SNIPES also sponsors the biggest urban events and festivals throughout Europe.

Nike is an athletic footwear and apparel corporation. It is the world's largest supplier of athletic shoes and apparel and a major manufacturer of sports equipment, with revenue in excess of $46 billion in its fiscal year 2022. Nike ranked 89th in the 2018 Fortune 500 list of the largest United States corporations by total revenue.

On December 7, 2023, SNIPES partnered with Nike on an inspiring video commercial titled "SNIPES x Nike: Soul of Basketball". In the commercial, Shefik appears as Basketball Fan, energetically reacting to the actions of the players on the basketball court during a game. The commercial has a duration of one minute.

Invented in 1891 by Canadian-American gym teacher James Naismith in Springfield, Massachusetts, basketball has evolved to become one of the world's most popular and widely viewed sports. National Basketball Association (NBA) is the most significant professional basketball league in the world in terms of popularity, salaries, talent, and level of competition.

Credits

- Director: Joshua S. Medina
- Basketball Fan: Shefik Show less

Milk Processor Education Program (MilkPEP) is funded by the nation's milk companies, and dedicated to educating consumers and increasing consumption of fluid milk.

In a world where only 5% of sports media coverage goes to women, MilkPEP (yes, real dairy milk!) is redirecting the spotlight to women not just on International Women's Day, but all year long with the launch of 26.2. A powerful, experiential initiative, 26.2 is not only a commitment to sponsor female marathon runners in 2023… Show more

Milk Processor Education Program (MilkPEP) is funded by the nation's milk companies, and dedicated to educating consumers and increasing consumption of fluid milk.

In a world where only 5% of sports media coverage goes to women, MilkPEP (yes, real dairy milk!) is redirecting the spotlight to women not just on International Women's Day, but all year long with the launch of 26.2. A powerful, experiential initiative, 26.2 is not only a commitment to sponsor female marathon runners in 2023, but an effort to generate awareness for the many gender inequalities in sport. As part of the campaign, MilkPEP is launching the Every Women Sponsored Fund in a continued partnership with Girls on the Run International, an organization dedicated to empowering young girls through physical activity — a promise to hero female athletes of every generation.

In 2023, MilkPEP aims to extend support even further, sponsoring every woman running any marathon who signs up for Team Milk. From first time marathon runners to ultra-marathoners, MilkPEP's 26.2 program spotlights female runners' journeys, provide female-centric training resources, offer nutritional, mental, and physical advice from top sports experts, and include a sponsorship tour, providing on-site support for any women running marathons in Denver, Chicago, and New York City. MilkPEP aims to create a running community for women, powered by women.

On November 5, 2023, the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon was organized as the premier event of New York Road Runners. It was the world's largest marathon of 2023 with 51,402 total finishers (out of 51,933 starters), and the 3rd largest edition of the race in the event's history. Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia was named Men's Open Division Winner (2:04:58), and Hellen Obiri of Kenya was named Women's Open Division Winner (2:27:23). MilkPEP sponsored the marathon, where Shefik served as a Brand Ambassador for MilkPEP.

Credits

- Brand Ambassador: Shefik Show less

Seeing Lavender (styled lowercase as seeing lavender) is a New York City based project about creating relatable and soothing music that feels like having a conversation with an understanding friend. By infusing nostalgic punk with contemporary indie rock, seeing lavender's songs feel fresh, yet familiar.

On November 3, 2023, seeing lavender released the music video "The Jester and the Fool", directed by Brian Ryu, and produced by seeing lavender, David Buhrmaster, and Sacha Voteau… Show more

Seeing Lavender (styled lowercase as seeing lavender) is a New York City based project about creating relatable and soothing music that feels like having a conversation with an understanding friend. By infusing nostalgic punk with contemporary indie rock, seeing lavender's songs feel fresh, yet familiar.

On November 3, 2023, seeing lavender released the music video "The Jester and the Fool", directed by Brian Ryu, and produced by seeing lavender, David Buhrmaster, and Sacha Voteau. Shefik appears in the music video as a Dancer, where he danced alongside seeing lavender and a group of other enthusiastic dancers. Shefik filmed his segment of the music video adjacent to Washington Arch, which is the marble memorial arch in Washington Square Park, in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Lower Manhattan, New York City.

Designed by architect Stanford White in 1891, Washington Arch commemorates the centennial of George Washington's 1789 inauguration as President of the United States, and forms the southern terminus of 5th Avenue. Washington Arch was dedicated in 1895, and in 1918, two statues of Washington were added to the north side. In modern times, the Washington Arch has become an unofficial symbol of New York University.

A jester, court jester, fool or joker was a member of the household of a nobleman or a monarch employed to entertain guests during royal court. Jesters were also traveling performers who entertained common folk at fairs and town markets, and the discipline continues into the modern day, where jesters perform at historical-themed events. During the post-classical and Renaissance eras, jesters are often thought to have worn brightly colored clothes and eccentric hats in a motley pattern. Their modern counterparts usually mimic this costume.

Jesters entertained with a wide variety of skills: principal among them were song, music, and storytelling.

Credits

- Director: Brian Ryu
- Dancer: Shefik Show less

On October 26, 2023, NBCUniversal officially announced the relaunch of The Tour at NBC Studios, with pre-sale tickets available for purchase. The Tour at NBC Studios takes guests on an exciting journey through NBC Studios at Rockefeller Center where broadcast television was born, showcasing where some of today's most popular shows are made, right in the heart of Manhattan, New York.

The Tour at NBC Studios features behind-the-scenes access to NBC's most iconic television studios and 4… Show more

On October 26, 2023, NBCUniversal officially announced the relaunch of The Tour at NBC Studios, with pre-sale tickets available for purchase. The Tour at NBC Studios takes guests on an exciting journey through NBC Studios at Rockefeller Center where broadcast television was born, showcasing where some of today's most popular shows are made, right in the heart of Manhattan, New York.

The Tour at NBC Studios features behind-the-scenes access to NBC's most iconic television studios and 4 new video exhibits that show everything involved in television production and highlight the legacy of NBC at Rockefeller Center. See where your favorite shows are made. Visit where some of today's most popular television shows are made, like "Saturday Night Live", "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon", "Late Night with Seth Meyers", and "The Kelly Clarkson Show". Also, get to see the headquarters for some of America's favorite news programming including "TODAY", "Nightly News with Lester Holt", MSNBC, and NBC News NOW.

There is nothing like The Tour at NBC Studios. NBC Pages will guide you through the production process, from staging and directing, to the technologies that deliver our content to your home. Tour guests will also be able to participate in an interactive production experience and see what it is like to create their own television show. This unique experience has been designed so that each guest can play a role, whether it be in front of or behind the camera. After the tour, guests will receive a copy of their mock television show to help them remember The Tour at NBC Studios.

The Tour at NBC Studios relaunched on November 3, 2023, with the first tour scheduled at 8 a.m. ET. As part of the relaunch, Shefik was featured in the visual marketing of the campaign as Tour Attendee.

NBC Studios at Rockefeller Center first opened in 1933.

Credits

- Art Director: Jamaal Nelson
- Tour Attendee: Shefik Show less

When you or someone you love hears the words "you have cancer", it's one of the darkest moments of your life.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is a global leader in the fight against blood cancer. The mission of Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease, and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Leukemia & Lymphoma Society funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support… Show more

When you or someone you love hears the words "you have cancer", it's one of the darkest moments of your life.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is a global leader in the fight against blood cancer. The mission of Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease, and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Leukemia & Lymphoma Society funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care.

Be the voice that speaks up. Be the hand that reaches out. Be the light that cures cancer.

On October 21, 2023, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society held its annual, nationwide Light The Night event at Playland, for the Westchester and Lower Hudson Valley region. Playland, often called Rye Playland and also known as Playland Amusement Park, is an amusement park located in Rye, New York.

In support for Light The Night, Shefik organized a team of representatives from NBCUniversal and the employee resource group MyAbilities, as part of his role as Ambassador at NBCUniversal's corporate responsibility and social impact initiative, Comcast NBCUnites. Community activists and representatives from You're Our Unity and Ruff Ryders to the Rescue Foundation also accompanied the Comcast NBCUnites team, who walked together under the team name NBC Sports. Gold lanterns were lit in remembrance of those lost due to blood cancer, white lanterns for survivors and those currently fighting blood cancer, and red lanterns represented supporters of those fighting blood cancer.

Light The Night offers hope instead of helplessness, connection instead of loneliness, and life-saving research and support at every step. When we come together as a community, we bring more people out of the dark. Since 1993, Light The Night has raised $1 billon in funds.

Credits

- Ambassador for Comcast NBCUnites: Shefik Show less

Founded in 2009 by Steve Lastoe, the mission of New York City Runs (NYCRUNS) is to create the very best running events in New York City and to develop their flagship Brooklyn Half Marathon into one of the most iconic running events in the world. In doing so, NYCRUNS wants to be a relentlessly positive part of their customer's lives — a meaningful partner to local businesses, causes, and runners, and a great employer to their diverse team.

NYCRUNS puts on about 20 running events annually… Show more

Founded in 2009 by Steve Lastoe, the mission of New York City Runs (NYCRUNS) is to create the very best running events in New York City and to develop their flagship Brooklyn Half Marathon into one of the most iconic running events in the world. In doing so, NYCRUNS wants to be a relentlessly positive part of their customer's lives — a meaningful partner to local businesses, causes, and runners, and a great employer to their diverse team.

NYCRUNS puts on about 20 running events annually in New York City (and one in New Jersey) for over 75,000 athletes.

On September 23, 2023, teamed with fitness and running enthusiasts, Shefik served as a Fluid Station Worker for the 2023 Newport Liberty Half Marathon & 5K. The event was held in Jersey City, New Jersey, and he was stationed at Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, inside of Liberty State Park. At the station, Shefik handed out water supplied by Poland Spring, cheered on participants, and engaged with the athletes and corral runners.

Despite grueling weather conditions in the area due to Tropical Storm Ophelia, Shefik was encouraged by the perseverance of the runners, as they remained steadfast in their goal of crossing the finishing line. New York City Emergency Management Department issued a travel advisory for Saturday, September 23, 2023 through Sunday, September 24, 2023. According to the National Weather Service, New York City experienced a long-duration rainfall event over that particular weekend. Widespread areas of low lying and poor drainage flooding occurred during periods of heavy rainfall, as well as isolated flash flooding.

Starting and finishing in the Newport neighborhood of Jersey City, the half marathon course took runners on a tour of historic Jersey City and featured world-class views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the stunning Manhattan Skyline.

Annually, more than 800 marathons are organized worldwide.

Credits

- Fluid Station Worker: Shefik Show less

New York Film Academy draws faculty who are active, working professionals in their fields, many of whom are award winners or have formerly taught at such prestigious institutions as New York University Tisch School of the Arts; Columbia University; AFI Conservatory; University of Southern California; Stanford University; Harvard University; Yale University; and University of California, Los Angeles. Notable faculty members have included SAG Award winner Matthew Modine, BAFTA Award winner and… Show more

New York Film Academy draws faculty who are active, working professionals in their fields, many of whom are award winners or have formerly taught at such prestigious institutions as New York University Tisch School of the Arts; Columbia University; AFI Conservatory; University of Southern California; Stanford University; Harvard University; Yale University; and University of California, Los Angeles. Notable faculty members have included SAG Award winner Matthew Modine, BAFTA Award winner and cinematographer Anthony B. Richmond, film critic Peter Rainer, actor Bill Duke, writer Heather Hach, director Nag Ashwin, filmmaker Mark Lester, actress Brenda Vaccaro, actor Louis Gossett Jr., actor Mark Olsen, actress and musical theater performer Kristy Cates, director Adam Nimoy, game designer Chris Swain, director Claude Kerven, screenwriter Jim Jennewein, actor and director Michael Zelniker, and actress Lynda Goodfriend.

New York Film Academy is considered the best hands-on visual and performing arts college in the world and offers a range of programs including Filmmaking, Acting for Film, Screenwriting, Producing, Documentary Filmmaking, Game Design, Animation, Photography, Musical Theatre, Broadcast Journalism, Cinematography, Virtual Reality, and Digital Editing.

In the short film "Mad Dogs Must Eat" (2023), a hotel security officer is tasked with protecting a man, who has assault allegations from a rumored serial castrator. The film, written and directed by Adela Gorden, is a project for New York Film Academy. Released on September 9, 2023, Shefik appears in the film as Bartender. In 2019, Gorden (under the name Abi Shorter) was nominated for a Student Production Award at the 17th Annual Midsouth Student Production Awards (presented by National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, Nashville/Midsouth Chapter).

The term castration may also be sometimes used to refer to emasculation.

Credits

- Director: Adela Gorden
- Writer: Adela Gorden
- Bartender: Shefik Show less

"Survival of the Thickest" is a comedy-drama television series co-created by Michelle Buteau and Danielle Sanchez-Witzel for Netflix, based on a memoir of the same name. The series stars Buteau as a plus-sized woman attempting to rebuild her life after a breakup. The series was released on July 13, 2023. The first season comprises 8 episodes.

The premise of the series consists of recently turned a single Black woman, Mavis Beaumont (played by Buteau), who attempts to rebuild her life… Show more

"Survival of the Thickest" is a comedy-drama television series co-created by Michelle Buteau and Danielle Sanchez-Witzel for Netflix, based on a memoir of the same name. The series stars Buteau as a plus-sized woman attempting to rebuild her life after a breakup. The series was released on July 13, 2023. The first season comprises 8 episodes.

The premise of the series consists of recently turned a single Black woman, Mavis Beaumont (played by Buteau), who attempts to rebuild her life after "putting all of her eggs in one man's basket". As a struggling stylist, she is about to face various hurdles ahead as she tries to get herself together. Alongside her friends and relatives, she tries to survive and break through her problems, career and relationship-wise, with her "body-positive attitude, cute v-neck, and some lip-gloss".

Buteau is an American stand-up comedian, actress, television host, producer, and podcast host. After 5 years as a stand-up comedian, she landed her first television spot on Comedy Central. In 2020, Buteau published her first book, a collection of personal essays titled "Survival of the Thickest", with Gallery Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster.

Shefik appears as Party Goer in Season 1, Episode 6 of "Survival of the Thickest". The episode, titled "Do the Right Thang, Bitch.", was written by Hillary Handelsman, directed by Emmy Award nominee Amy Aniobi, and streamed on July 13, 2023 on Netflix. In the episode, booked and busy, Mavis secured a dream job styling a lingerie launch celebrating body positivity but struggles to set boundaries when conflicts arise.

Aniobi is a Nigerian-American writer and producer. She is the Head Writer and Co-Executive Producer of "Insecure" on HBO and was also an Executive Producer for the HBO special "2 Dope Queens".

Under a recurring role in "Survival of the Thickest", television personality and activist Peppermint stars as the character of the same name.

Credits

- Director: Amy Aniobi
- Party Goer: Shefik Show less

"And Just Like That..." is a comedy-drama television series developed by Michael Patrick King for HBO Max. It is a revival and a sequel of the HBO television series "Sex and the City" created by Darren Star, based on Candace Bushnell's newspaper column and 1996 book anthology.

"And Just Like That..." premiered, starring Sarah Jessica Parker as Carrie Bradshaw, Cynthia Nixon as Miranda Hobbes, and Kristin Davis as Charlotte York Goldenblatt.

Set 11 years after the events of the… Show more

"And Just Like That..." is a comedy-drama television series developed by Michael Patrick King for HBO Max. It is a revival and a sequel of the HBO television series "Sex and the City" created by Darren Star, based on Candace Bushnell's newspaper column and 1996 book anthology.

"And Just Like That..." premiered, starring Sarah Jessica Parker as Carrie Bradshaw, Cynthia Nixon as Miranda Hobbes, and Kristin Davis as Charlotte York Goldenblatt.

Set 11 years after the events of the 2010 film "Sex and the City 2", the women make their transition from a life of liberation and friendship in their 30s to a more complicated reality of life and friendship in their 50s.

Warner Bros. Discovery went on with an associated revamp of HBO Max, shortening the service's name to Max.

Shefik appears as a Fusion Restaurant Patron in Season 2, Episode 1 of "And Just Like That...". The season premiere episode, titled "Met Cute", was directed by Michael Patrick King, and written by King and Susan Fales-Hill. It was released on Max on June 22, 2023.

In the episode, Carrie and her "Sex and the City" podcast producer, Franklyn, settle into an "every-Thursday" hook-up routine. Carrie juggles who to take to the Met Gala as her "plus one", then has a fashion disaster when her custom-designed dress does not fit. She instead wears her Vivienne Westwood wedding dress. Miranda, adjusting to Los Angeles, attempts to keep busy while Che works long hours. Che, meanwhile, becomes withdrawn after being asked to lose weight for the television pilot. Seema breaks up with Zed after learning he still lives with his ex-wife, though he clarifies they have different living quarters. Nya, separated from Andre, calls him for a sexy FaceTime encounter, only to discover he is with a woman, who he claims is a musical collaborator. Carrie, not ready for a serious relationship, is uncomfortable when Franklyn invites her to a social event.

Credits

- Director: Michael Patrick King
- Fusion Restaurant Patron: Shefik Show less

"Succession" is a comedy-drama television series created by Jesse Armstrong. The series centers on the Roy family, the owners of global media and entertainment conglomerate Waystar RoyCo, and their fight for control of the company amidst uncertainty about the health of the family's patriarch.

Among the cast are Brian Cox as patriarch Logan Roy, Jeremy Strong as Kendall, Kieran Culkin as Roman, and Sarah Snook as Siobhan ("Shiv"), Logan's children employed by the company. Matthew… Show more

"Succession" is a comedy-drama television series created by Jesse Armstrong. The series centers on the Roy family, the owners of global media and entertainment conglomerate Waystar RoyCo, and their fight for control of the company amidst uncertainty about the health of the family's patriarch.

Among the cast are Brian Cox as patriarch Logan Roy, Jeremy Strong as Kendall, Kieran Culkin as Roman, and Sarah Snook as Siobhan ("Shiv"), Logan's children employed by the company. Matthew Macfadyen stars as Tom Wambsgans, Shiv's husband and Waystar executive; Nicholas Braun as Greg Hirsch, Logan's grandnephew also employed by the company; Alan Ruck as Connor, Logan's eldest child; and Hiam Abbass as Marcia Roy, Logan's third and current wife. Peter Friedman, Natalie Gold, and Rob Yang also star, while Dagmara Domińczyk, Arian Moayed, J. Smith-Cameron, Justine Lupe, David Rasche, Fisher Stevens, and Alexander Skarsgård featured in recurring roles before being promoted to the main cast.

"Succession" received widespread critical acclaim across all 4 seasons, with several critics labelling it as one of the best television series of all time. The series has received several awards and nominations, including 2 wins for both the Golden Globe Award for Best Television Series – Drama and the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series in 2020 and 2022.

Shefik appears as a Protest Attendee in Season 4, Episode 9 of "Succession". The episode, titled "Church and State", is the 9th and penultimate episode of the 4th season. It was written by series creator Jesse Armstrong and directed by Mark Mylod, and aired on May 21, 2023 on HBO, later streaming on HBO Max.

The episode covers the funeral of Logan Roy — taking place amidst protests against the election of Jeryd Mencken — where Kendall and Shiv attempt to secure their positions while Roman struggles with grief for his father.

Credits

- Director: Mark Mylod
- Protest Attendee: Shefik Show less

Rodney Chrome knows no boundaries. His genre-defying work seamlessly crosses between pop, R&B, rap, and electronic inspirations, providing an ode to the past while also showing you the sound of the future. Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, Rodney Chrome is a multi-faceted visual artist, dancer, and musician. Growing up as a dancer, being around movement, competition, costumes, and music helped him mold his artistic identity. After moving to New York to attend the Clive Davis Institute at… Show more

Rodney Chrome knows no boundaries. His genre-defying work seamlessly crosses between pop, R&B, rap, and electronic inspirations, providing an ode to the past while also showing you the sound of the future. Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, Rodney Chrome is a multi-faceted visual artist, dancer, and musician. Growing up as a dancer, being around movement, competition, costumes, and music helped him mold his artistic identity. After moving to New York to attend the Clive Davis Institute at New York University, Rodney Chrome quickly realized that being the maximum version of himself was not only welcomed, but celebrated, and his journey as a recording artist began.

In 2021, Rodney Chrome did a full-length feature on AFROPUNK, as well as an exclusive live performance on AFROPUNK's Channel Interference show. In 2021 and 2022, Rodney Chrome also composed and wrote music for the Disney+ series "Growing Up", which highlights the unheard voices of 10 Generation Z individuals.

On April 13, 2023, Rodney Chrome released the music video to his song "Break the Internet". To officially announce the release of the video, journalist Matt Moen wrote an informative article for PAPER, where Moen noted the following:

"'Break the Internet' arrives alongside an Olivia De Camps-directed music video that is just as much as a serve. Described as catering to the fashion fiends, eclectic Shygirl-enjoyers and 'the left of center queer crate diggers', the visual features nods to Doja Cat's live performance of 'Say So' and Cardi B and Lil Uzi Vert choreographer Sean Bankhead, all taking place in what feels like a queer version of Fight Club. There are looks, there's attitude and there is not one moment wasted where Rodney Chrome does not make it abundantly clear just who the star is here."

Shefik appears in the music video for "Break the Internet", playing the role of a Fight Club Member.

Credits

- Director: Olivia De Camps
- Fight Club Member: Shefik Show less

"Wu-Tang: An American Saga" is an American biographical drama streaming television series created by RZA and Alex Tse, which premiered on September 4, 2019, on Hulu. The show portrays a fictionalized account of the formation of Wu-Tang Clan. In November 2021, the series was renewed for a third and final season which premiered on February 15, 2023.

"Wu-Tang: An American Saga" is set in New York City during the height of the crack cocaine epidemic in the early 1990s. It follows Wu-Tang… Show more

"Wu-Tang: An American Saga" is an American biographical drama streaming television series created by RZA and Alex Tse, which premiered on September 4, 2019, on Hulu. The show portrays a fictionalized account of the formation of Wu-Tang Clan. In November 2021, the series was renewed for a third and final season which premiered on February 15, 2023.

"Wu-Tang: An American Saga" is set in New York City during the height of the crack cocaine epidemic in the early 1990s. It follows Wu-Tang Clan's formation, a vision of Bobby Diggs aka RZA (portrayed by Ashton Sanders), and its rise amid the dangers and excesses that came with the epidemic. Seeking his own way out, RZA turns to rap in order to carve a path to fame going against his older brother Mitchell Diggs aka Divine (portrayed by Julian Elijah Martinez), who favored the drug trade as the means to giving their family a better life. The story depicts how it all came together for the clan as RZA unites a dozen young men who are torn between music and crime. The group battles against the forces that hold them down and these include their own occasional impulse to give up the fight.

Shefik appeared in Season 3, Episode 10 as a Concert Goer and Club Goer, in the series finale titled "Triumph". In this episode, RZA pushes his musicianship to new heights, as he creates the album "Wu-Tang Forever" with a studio orchestra. However, the recording process strains Wu-Tang Clan. As tensions boil over during their biggest tour yet, RZA is concerned about Wu-Tang Clan's future and legacy.

"Wu-Tang Forever" is the second studio album of Wu-Tang Clan, released June 3, 1997, on Loud/RCA Records in the United States. Pressed as a double album, it was released after a long run of successful solo projects from various members of the group, and serves as the follow-up to their debut album "Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)".

Credits

- Director: RZA
- Concert Goer: Shefik
- Club Goer: Shefik Show less

New York Film Academy draws faculty who are active, working professionals in their fields, many of whom are award winners or have formerly taught at such prestigious institutions as New York University Tisch School of the Arts; Columbia University; AFI Conservatory; University of Southern California; Stanford University; Harvard University; Yale University; and University of California, Los Angeles. Notable faculty members have included SAG Award winner Matthew Modine, BAFTA Award winner and… Show more

New York Film Academy draws faculty who are active, working professionals in their fields, many of whom are award winners or have formerly taught at such prestigious institutions as New York University Tisch School of the Arts; Columbia University; AFI Conservatory; University of Southern California; Stanford University; Harvard University; Yale University; and University of California, Los Angeles. Notable faculty members have included SAG Award winner Matthew Modine, BAFTA Award winner and cinematographer Anthony B. Richmond, film critic Peter Rainer, actor Bill Duke, writer Heather Hach, director Nag Ashwin, filmmaker Mark Lester, actress Brenda Vaccaro, actor Louis Gossett Jr., actor Mark Olsen, actress and musical theater performer Kristy Cates, director Adam Nimoy, game designer Chris Swain, director Claude Kerven, screenwriter Jim Jennewein, actor and director Michael Zelniker, and actress Lynda Goodfriend.

New York Film Academy is considered the best hands-on visual and performing arts college in the world and offers a range of programs including Filmmaking, Acting for Film, Screenwriting, Producing, Documentary Filmmaking, Game Design, Animation, Photography, Musical Theatre, Broadcast Journalism, Cinematography, Virtual Reality, and Digital Editing.

In the short film "Bury Him" (2023), a woman tries to forget about the horrific events of the night before. The film, written and directed by Adela Gorden, is a project for New York Film Academy. Released on March 16, 2023, Shefik appears in the short film as Security. In 2019, Gorden (under the name Abi Shorter) was nominated for a Student Production Award at the 17th Annual Midsouth Student Production Awards (presented by National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, Nashville/Midsouth Chapter).

New York Film Academy was founded on the philosophy that "learning by doing" combined with best industry practices is more valuable.

Credits

- Director: Adela Gorden
- Writer: Adela Gorden
- Security: Shefik Show less

"Poker Face" is an American crime drama television series created by Rian Johnson for the streaming service Peacock. Stylized as a "case-of-the-week" murder mystery series, it stars Natasha Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a casino worker on the run who entangles herself into several mysterious deaths of strangers along the way.

Peacock announced the series in March 2021, with Lyonne attached and Johnson as director. Nora Zuckerman and Lilla Zuckerman were named as co-showrunners. "Poker Face"… Show more

"Poker Face" is an American crime drama television series created by Rian Johnson for the streaming service Peacock. Stylized as a "case-of-the-week" murder mystery series, it stars Natasha Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a casino worker on the run who entangles herself into several mysterious deaths of strangers along the way.

Peacock announced the series in March 2021, with Lyonne attached and Johnson as director. Nora Zuckerman and Lilla Zuckerman were named as co-showrunners. "Poker Face" consists of 10 episodes and debuted on January 26, 2023. The series has received critical acclaim. Named after the NBC logo, Peacock is a streaming service from NBCUniversal. In March 2023, the service reached 22 million paid subscribers.

Shefik makes an obscured appearance as a Theater Goer in Season 1, Episode 6 of "Poker Face". The episode, titled "Exit Stage Death", was written by co-executive producer Chris Downey and directed by Ben Sinclair. It was released on Peacock on February 9, 2023.

In the episode, actress Kathleen Townsend visits her longtime nemesis and former costar Michael Graves to ask him for help putting on a one-night play to revitalize her career, and he reluctantly accepts after his wealthy wife Ava encourages him. Fed up with each other during the show, Kathleen rigs a light to kill Michael, and he rigs the stage's trapdoor to kill her.

The light narrowly misses Michael, causing him to have a stress-induced heart attack. Ava runs to give him his medication, only to fall to her death through the door. Backstage, Kathleen and Michael reveal the entire show was a publicity stunt in their plan to publicly reveal their love for each other, having Ava killed so they could be together. With the show more popular than ever, Kathleen decides to give it another day.

The episode featured appearances by Ellen Barkin, Tim Meadows, Audrey Corsa, Jameela Jamil, Niall Cunningham, and Chris McKinney.

Credits

- Director: Ben Sinclair
- Theater Goer: Shefik Show less

"Poker Face" is an American crime drama television series created by Rian Johnson for the streaming service Peacock. Stylized as a "case-of-the-week" murder mystery series, it stars Natasha Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a casino worker on the run who entangles herself into several mysterious deaths of strangers along the way.

Peacock announced the series in March 2021, with Lyonne attached and Johnson as director. Nora Zuckerman and Lilla Zuckerman were named as co-showrunners. "Poker Face"… Show more

"Poker Face" is an American crime drama television series created by Rian Johnson for the streaming service Peacock. Stylized as a "case-of-the-week" murder mystery series, it stars Natasha Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a casino worker on the run who entangles herself into several mysterious deaths of strangers along the way.

Peacock announced the series in March 2021, with Lyonne attached and Johnson as director. Nora Zuckerman and Lilla Zuckerman were named as co-showrunners. "Poker Face" consists of 10 episodes and debuted on January 26, 2023. The series has received critical acclaim. Named after the NBC logo, Peacock is a streaming service from NBCUniversal. In March 2023, the service reached 22 million paid subscribers.

Shefik appears as a BBQ Patron in Season 1, Episode 3 of "Poker Face". The episode, titled "The Stall", was written by executive story editor Wyatt Cain and directed by executive producer Iain B. MacDonald. It was released on Peacock on January 26, 2023.

Arriving in Texas, Charlie is followed by a volatile stray dog. The dog eats the food of customers at a barbecue restaurant owned by the Boyle brothers. The business-minded Taffy Boyle demands Charlie pay off what the dog ate. She takes a temporary job at the restaurant and bonds with George Boyle, the kind head chef. When she lends him a copy of the film Okja, he is deeply moved by its animal rights messaging and plans to give up his stake in the business. Unable to afford to buy him out, Taffy and his sister-in-law Mandy pre-record a segment for his radio show, which he plays to give himself an alibi as he drugs George, seals him inside his trailer, and suffocates him with smoke from a grill. He is attacked by the dog, who he beats.

George's death is ruled a suicide, and a departing Charlie finds the dog.

The episode featured appearances by Lil Rel Howery, Danielle Macdonald, Shane Paul McGhie, and Larry Brown.

Credits

- Director: Iain B. MacDonald
- BBQ Patron: Shefik Show less

"Gossip Girl" is an American teen drama streaming television series developed by Joshua Safran for HBO Max. It is an extension and a standalone sequel to The CW television series of the same name, which is based on the novel series written by Cecily von Ziegesar. The series is executive produced by original series co-creators Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, along with Safran, who was an executive producer on the first series and who also serves as showrunner. The series is narrated by… Show more

"Gossip Girl" is an American teen drama streaming television series developed by Joshua Safran for HBO Max. It is an extension and a standalone sequel to The CW television series of the same name, which is based on the novel series written by Cecily von Ziegesar. The series is executive produced by original series co-creators Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, along with Safran, who was an executive producer on the first series and who also serves as showrunner. The series is narrated by Kristen Bell, who reprised her role as the voice of Gossip Girl, an anonymous and omniscient blogger. The series features an ensemble cast led by Jordan Alexander, Whitney Peak, Tavi Gevinson, Eli Brown, Thomas Doherty, Emily Alyn Lind, Evan Mock, Zión Moreno, Savannah Lee Smith, and Grace Duah.

The series is available to watch in Asia via HBO GO. The series was acquired by BBC One and BBC iPlayer for the United Kingdom. For Canada, it was acquired by Crave. In Belgium, the series was released on Streamz on July 9, 2021. The series was released on Amazon Prime Video India on July 21, 2022.

Since the April 2022 merger of WarnerMedia with Discovery to form Warner Bros. Discovery, Max is one of the combined company's two flagship streaming services, the other being Discovery+. Warner Bros. Discovery initially announced plans for HBO Max and Discovery+ to merge in 2023, but the company ultimately chose to retain Discovery+. Warner Bros. Discovery went on with an associated revamp of HBO Max that launched on May 23, 2023, shortening the service's name to Max.

Shefik appears as a Wedding Guest in Season 2, Episode 6 of "Gossip Girl". The episode, titled "How to Bury a Millionaire", was directed by Satya Bhabha. It was released on HBO Max on December 29, 2022.

In the episode, a familiar figure blackmails Kate into ruining an important event. Obie proposes a transactional offer that would destroy his family to Gossip Girl.

Credits

- Director: Satya Bhabha
- Wedding Guest: Shefik Show less

When it comes to the art of hip-hop, HDBeenDope is a breath of fresh air. Rising to the occasion to challenges, HDBeenDope had 72 hours to produce, record, and submit an original celebratory anthem, where he landed his record "Top" on Madden NFL 21 (EA Sports). His thought-provoking lyrics, dynamic production accompanied high-definition visuals, helped propel other placements including NBA 2K, EA Sports UFC, XXL's 2020 Freshman of the Year 10th Spot Contender, and more.

The New York… Show more

When it comes to the art of hip-hop, HDBeenDope is a breath of fresh air. Rising to the occasion to challenges, HDBeenDope had 72 hours to produce, record, and submit an original celebratory anthem, where he landed his record "Top" on Madden NFL 21 (EA Sports). His thought-provoking lyrics, dynamic production accompanied high-definition visuals, helped propel other placements including NBA 2K, EA Sports UFC, XXL's 2020 Freshman of the Year 10th Spot Contender, and more.

The New York native dropped his debut project, "Pheace Be the Journey" in 2016, an instant success that earned him an opening slot for Portugal the Man on their United States tour. HDBeenDope's relentless work ethic enabled him to perform in venues alongside the likes of Supa Bwe, Black Milk, and Lil Xan. Over the course of 2019, he released a series of one-off singles including "Cayman", "Rev Run", and the massive hit "BYRD", a no-holds-barred trap-influenced song that's earned over 23 million streams and views to date. The multi-faceted powerhouse dropped his second project "BrokeN Dreams" in 2020, which showcased his signature storytelling style, while blending the classic, east coast sound with a minimalist trap approach. The project featured appearances from Rodes Rollins, Mayila, and Maeta, and garnered critical acclaim from the likes of HYPEBEAST, DJBooth, XXL, and more.

Signed to Roc Nation Records (a division of Roc Nation), HDBeenDope released his EP "What Can They Say", on October 21, 2022. As part of the promotion for the EP, Shefik appears in the music video for HDBeenDope's song "Mamba", playing the role of Hype Talent.

Roc Nation is an entertainment agency founded by Jay-Z, with the intent of signing artists. Roc Nation comprises a talent agency, sports agency, record label, management agency, television and film enterprises, fashion clothing line, and educational and philanthropic endeavors.

Credits

- Director: Erikson Corneil
- Producer: Taya Simmons
- Hype Talent: Shefik Show less

"The Good Fight" is an American legal drama produced for CBS' streaming service CBS All Access (later Paramount+). It was the platform's first original scripted series. The series, created by Robert King, Michelle King, and Phil Alden Robinson, is a spin-off and standalone sequel to "The Good Wife", which was created by the Kings. The first season premiered on February 19, 2017, with the first episode airing on CBS and the following nine episodes on CBS All Access.

The series follows… Show more

"The Good Fight" is an American legal drama produced for CBS' streaming service CBS All Access (later Paramount+). It was the platform's first original scripted series. The series, created by Robert King, Michelle King, and Phil Alden Robinson, is a spin-off and standalone sequel to "The Good Wife", which was created by the Kings. The first season premiered on February 19, 2017, with the first episode airing on CBS and the following nine episodes on CBS All Access.

The series follows Christine Baranski as Diane Lockhart, as she loses her employment after an enormous financial scam destroys the reputation of her goddaughter Maia (Rose Leslie) and Diane's savings, leading them to join Lucca Quinn (Cush Jumbo) at one of Chicago's preeminent law firms. The series stars Baranski, Leslie, Jumbo, Erica Tazel, Sarah Steele, Justin Bartha, Delroy Lindo, Nyambi Nyambi, Michael Boatman, and Audra McDonald, and features Paul Guilfoyle and Bernadette Peters in recurring roles. It is executive produced by Robert King, Michelle King, Ridley Scott, David W. Zucker, Liz Glotzer, Brooke Kennedy, and Alison Scott.

In July 2021, the series was renewed for a 6th and final season. It premiered on September 8, 2022.

Shefik appears as a Left Wing Rioter in Season 6, Episode 10 of "The Good Fight". The episode, titled "The End of Everything", was written by Robert King and Michelle King, and directed by Robert King. It was released on Paramount+ on November 10, 2022. Shefik also appears in the official trailer for Season 6, which has amassed over 3.4 million views on YouTube.

In the episode, the office must survive after being trapped by white supremacists.

Paramount+ is an American subscription video on-demand over-the-top streaming service owned by Paramount Global. The service's content is drawn primarily from the libraries of CBS Media Ventures, CBS Studios, Paramount Media Networks, and Paramount Pictures.

Credits

- Director: Robert King
- Left Wing Rioter: Shefik Show less

"The Lion King" is a musical play based on the 1994 Walt Disney Animation Studios' animated feature film of the same name with music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, and book by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi. The show is produced by Disney Theatrical Productions.

The musical debuted on July 8, 1997 and was successful before premiering on Broadway on October 15, 1997, in previews, with the official opening on November 13, 1997. Over 100 million people worldwide have seen the musical… Show more

"The Lion King" is a musical play based on the 1994 Walt Disney Animation Studios' animated feature film of the same name with music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, and book by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi. The show is produced by Disney Theatrical Productions.

The musical debuted on July 8, 1997 and was successful before premiering on Broadway on October 15, 1997, in previews, with the official opening on November 13, 1997. Over 100 million people worldwide have seen the musical, and it has earned numerous awards and honors, including 6 Tony Awards.

In September 2014, "The Lion King" became the top-earning title in box-office history for both stage works and films, surpassing the record held by "The Phantom of the Opera". The musical has grossed nearly $8.1 billion as of 2017.

Disney Theatrical Productions partnered with Jamaal Parham and Bashan Aquart, known as the directing duo Jams x Bash, to collaborate on a 3-minute commercial, as a branded short film titled "Generations". The short film is the first of its kind for a Broadway production, in celebration of the historic 25th Anniversary of "The Lion King" on Broadway. Shefik appears in the commercial as a Theater Goer.

The emotional short film commemorates the legacy of "The Lion King", forged over a quarter-century: connecting generations, bringing them together over a common love and enchantment of the visuals, the music, and the story of "The Lion King". The short film celebrates the spell cast by the show as it takes on a time jump, intercutting from 1997 to present day, showcasing the longevity of the production and the bonds it has forged within untold millions of families. At the same time, the film celebrates Broadway and the impact of live performance on audiences. Filmed entirely on location in New York City, and featuring the current cast of the show, the short film acts as a celebration of the triumphant return of visual storytelling.

Credits

- Director: Jams x Bash
- Theater Goer: Shefik Show less

When it comes to the art of hip-hop, HDBeenDope is a breath of fresh air. Rising to the occasion to challenges, HDBeenDope had 72 hours to produce, record, and submit an original celebratory anthem, where he landed his record "Top" on Madden NFL 21 (EA Sports). His thought-provoking lyrics, dynamic production accompanied high-definition visuals, helped propel other placements including NBA2k, EA's UFC, XXL's 2020 Freshman of the Year 10th Spot Contender, and more.

The New York native… Show more

When it comes to the art of hip-hop, HDBeenDope is a breath of fresh air. Rising to the occasion to challenges, HDBeenDope had 72 hours to produce, record, and submit an original celebratory anthem, where he landed his record "Top" on Madden NFL 21 (EA Sports). His thought-provoking lyrics, dynamic production accompanied high-definition visuals, helped propel other placements including NBA2k, EA's UFC, XXL's 2020 Freshman of the Year 10th Spot Contender, and more.

The New York native dropped his debut project, "Pheace Be the Journey" in 2016, an instant success that earned him an opening slot for Portugal the Man on their United States tour. HDBeenDope's relentless work ethic enabled him to perform in venues alongside the likes of Supa Bwe, Black Milk, and Lil Xan. Over the course of 2019, he released a series of one-off singles, including "Cayman", "Rev Run", and the massive hit "BYRD" — a no-holds-barred trap-influenced song that has earned over 23 million streams and views to date. The multi-faceted powerhouse dropped his second project "BrokeN Dreams" in 2020, which showcased his signature storytelling style, while blending the classic, east coast sound with a minimalist trap approach. The project featured appearances from Rodes Rollins, Mayila, and Maeta, as well as the fan-favorite single "Die With Me", and garnered critical acclaim from the likes of HYPEBEAST, DJBooth, XXL, and more.

Recently signed to Roc Nation Records, HDBeenDope released his EP "What Can They Say", on October 21, 2022. As part of the promotion for the EP, Shefik appears in the music video directed by Erikson, for HDBeenDope's song "Wake Em Up", playing the role of HD Soldier. The music video was also released on October 21, 2002.

Roc Nation is an entertainment agency founded by Jay-Z in 2008, with the intent of signing pop and rap artists. In April 2013, Roc Nation signed a multi-year partnership with Universal Music Group.

Credits

Director: Erikson
HD Soldier: Shefik Show less

Twin City is an emerging pop duo from New York City, comprised of singer-songwriter sisters Anjali Pitti and Bhavani Pitti, who were born in that order — just 13 minutes apart. Simply, the name Twin City reflects the fact that they are indeed twins, who embarked on their journey as recording artists in a city that they love. They are already gaining significant acclaim and earning praise from notables within the music industry. Their sound is an offshoot of electropop and synthwave, but with a… Show more

Twin City is an emerging pop duo from New York City, comprised of singer-songwriter sisters Anjali Pitti and Bhavani Pitti, who were born in that order — just 13 minutes apart. Simply, the name Twin City reflects the fact that they are indeed twins, who embarked on their journey as recording artists in a city that they love. They are already gaining significant acclaim and earning praise from notables within the music industry. Their sound is an offshoot of electropop and synthwave, but with a retro nostalgic feel and a slightly futuristic edge.

Twin City's sound has been described as the sound of velvet dynamite. Its hallmark is a pulse of smooth energy, delivered with deep dimensional grit.

On September 22, 2022, Twin City released the music video for their debut single, "Let the Music Rock", after about two months of planning and production. Set to a vibe of futuristic dystopian, dusky, Mad Max, attractive, trendy, cyberpunk, and cyber glam, the music video features the fictional character Tara as the female lead. She represents a young woman who receives an unexpected breakup text, is distraught, and decides to go clubbing, ultimately finding a renewed sense of self.

Unknown to Tara, her sad state was detected by two benevolent futuristic space-type sentient beings played by Anjali and Bhavani. They help by sending an expressionless, and perhaps mechanical, morphing traveling duo (also played by Anjali and Bhavani) to take Tara to a place where she could cut loose and reclaim her smile. That place is an underground neon-clad dystopian city hotspot, where the third incarnation of the twins are performing and bringing their infectious talents and personas to the club. Shefik appears in the club scene, as a Club Goer / Dancer, enchanted by Twin City's performance.

The song "Let the Music Rock" was produced by Damian Dustin and mastered by 6-time Grammy Award winner Randy Merrill of Sterling Sound.

Credits

Director: Dariell Pujols
Club Goer / Dancer: Shefik Show less

Armor for Sleep is an American rock band from New Jersey. Their current lineup consists of lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter Ben Jorgensen; lead guitarist PJ DeCicco; bassist Anthony DiIonno; and drummer Nash Breen. In 2007, Armor for Sleep was featured on the soundtrack to the blockbuster live-action film "Transformers", with their song "End of the World". The soundtrack debuted at number 21 on the Billboard 200.

After initial demos had been distributed, New York-based… Show more

Armor for Sleep is an American rock band from New Jersey. Their current lineup consists of lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter Ben Jorgensen; lead guitarist PJ DeCicco; bassist Anthony DiIonno; and drummer Nash Breen. In 2007, Armor for Sleep was featured on the soundtrack to the blockbuster live-action film "Transformers", with their song "End of the World". The soundtrack debuted at number 21 on the Billboard 200.

After initial demos had been distributed, New York-based independent label Equal Vision Records signed the band and went on to release the concept-based albums "Dream to Make Believe" (2003) and "What to Do When You Are Dead" (2005). The following year, the band signed to Sire Records and Warner Bros. Records, and released their last album "Smile for Them" (2007). The band announced their disbandment in October 2009, only reuniting briefly for tours in 2012 and 2015. They officially reunited in 2020 and will release a new album in September 2022, "The Rain Museum", on Equal Vision Records. This is the band's first album in 15 years.

During their recording career, Armor for Sleep were known for their blend of alternative rock, to atmospheric emo and dream pop. Their upcoming album intends to be a concept album built around a post-apocalyptic world, where weather no longer exists on planet Earth, and people come to a mysterious museum in the middle of the desert to look back on what life used to be like.

The first single from the album "The Rain Museum" was released on July 7, 2022, titled "How Far Apart". Since its release, its accompanying music video, directed by Jesse Korman, has amassed over 200,000 views. Shefik appears in the music video, playing the role of Wedding Guest. The music video was filmed at Kev Von Holt Gallery (located at Stangl Factory), in Flemington, New Jersey.

Credit: Shefik (Wedding Guest) Show less

Skyy (also known as New York Skyy) was an American R&B/funk/disco band based in New York City. They are perhaps best known for their 1981 hit "Call Me", as well as their 1989 "comeback" hits "Start of a Romance" and "Real Love".

Skyy was formed in Brooklyn, New York in 1977. The original line-up consisted of sisters Denise Dunning Wilkinson, Dolores Dunning Milligan, and Benita "Bonné" Dunning Williams as vocalists, with guitarists Solomon Roberts and Anibal Anthony Sierra, keyboardist… Show more

Skyy (also known as New York Skyy) was an American R&B/funk/disco band based in New York City. They are perhaps best known for their 1981 hit "Call Me", as well as their 1989 "comeback" hits "Start of a Romance" and "Real Love".

Skyy was formed in Brooklyn, New York in 1977. The original line-up consisted of sisters Denise Dunning Wilkinson, Dolores Dunning Milligan, and Benita "Bonné" Dunning Williams as vocalists, with guitarists Solomon Roberts and Anibal Anthony Sierra, keyboardist Larry Greenberg, bassist Gerald Lebon, and drummer Tommy McConnell. In 1978, the band was signed to Salsoul Records.

After several albums that yielded moderate hits on the R&B charts, the group crossed over to the United States pop charts with the release of the "Skyy Line" album. Featured on this album was the single "Call Me" which was their first number 1 on the R&B charts. The album was later certified gold.

"Unsung" is an hour-long music documentary program that airs on the television network TV One. It uncovers the stories behind well-known R&B and hip-hop music artists, bands, or groups which were ranked on the Billboard music charts with a string of hits, only to have their career derailed by a major crisis that caused them to be essentially unappreciated by later generations of contemporary R&B and soul music listeners. The series is produced by A. Smith & Co. Productions.

On May 15, 2020, "Unsung" returned with Season 14, Episode 12, featuring the story of Skyy as the main subject. For this episode, Shefik licensed to "Unsung" video footage he captured of the legendary Ladies of Skyy, during their concert performance for Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage, held on July 6, 2018, in Queens, New York. Shefik was tasked to film the concert, which was then used as B-roll footage. Ladies of Skyy are the 3 sisters and vocalists of Skyy, who later formed as a trio after Skyy disbanded.

Credits

- Executive Producer: Jason B. Ryan
- Footage/Images Courtesy: Shefik Show less

Sasha Hutchings is an actress, who has appeared on Broadway since 2009. Her appearances include roles in "Hamilton", "My Fair Lady", "Oklahoma!", "Motown: The Musical", Rocky", and "Memphis". On television, she has appeared in the series "Blue Bloods" (CBS), "Jessica Jones" (Netflix), "Smash" (NBC), and "Master of None" (Netflix), among others.

Hope Easterbrook is an actress, who has worked on a variety of performances and music videos for up-and-coming artists. In 2016, Easterbrook made… Show more

Sasha Hutchings is an actress, who has appeared on Broadway since 2009. Her appearances include roles in "Hamilton", "My Fair Lady", "Oklahoma!", "Motown: The Musical", Rocky", and "Memphis". On television, she has appeared in the series "Blue Bloods" (CBS), "Jessica Jones" (Netflix), "Smash" (NBC), and "Master of None" (Netflix), among others.

Hope Easterbrook is an actress, who has worked on a variety of performances and music videos for up-and-coming artists. In 2016, Easterbrook made her broadway debut in "Hamilton" as the first replacement to the original cast, while also fulfilling her dream of performing in the Tony Awards. Besides performing, Easterbrook has worked as associate choreographer for multiple projects, including "Ladies of Hip-Hop Festival" (2015), and "Broadway Bares" (2014-2017). She is looking forward to furthering her career as a dance instructor, performer, and a well-rounded dancer.

On November 5, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Hutchings and Easterbrook, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio. Shefik served as Videographer.

Hutchings and Easterbrook performed a variety of songs from "Hamilton", and other selections of popular songs, while sharing anecdotes of their Broadway experiences.

"Hamilton" is a sung-and-rapped-through musical with music, lyrics, and a book by Lin-Manuel Miranda, based on the 2004 book "Alexander Hamilton" by Ron Chernow. The musical tells the story of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. Composed over a seven-year period from 2008 to 2015, Miranda says "Hamilton" was originally a hip-hop concept album in his head. The show draws heavily from hip-hop, as well as R&B, pop, soul, and traditional-style show tunes.

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Bre Jackson is an American theatre actress known for her work in the Broadway productions of "The Color Purple", "The Book of Mormon", and "SIX: The Musical".

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Jackson, backed by pianist and… Show more

Bre Jackson is an American theatre actress known for her work in the Broadway productions of "The Color Purple", "The Book of Mormon", and "SIX: The Musical".

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Jackson, backed by pianist and musical director Charles Santoro. The concert was scheduled on the day after the 72nd Annual Tony Awards, further celebrating the talent and legacy of the Great White Way.

Jackson performed the song "I'm Here" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "I'm Here" is a song from "The Color Purple".

"The Color Purple" is a musical with a book by Marsha Norman and music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray. Based on the 1982 novel of the same name by Alice Walker and its 1985 film adaptation, the show follows the journey of Celie, an African-American woman in the American South from the early to mid-20th century.

The original Broadway production ran from 2005 to 2008, earning 11 Tony Award nominations in 2006. An enthusiastically acclaimed Broadway revival opened in late 2015 and ran through early 2017, winning two 2016 Tony Awards — including Best Revival of a Musical.

A film adaptation of the musical is currently in the works for a December 20, 2023 release.

The musical opened on Broadway at The Broadway Theatre on December 1, 2005. It was directed by Gary Griffin, produced by Scott Sanders, Quincy Jones, and Oprah Winfrey, with choreography by Donald Byrd and musical direction by Linda Twine. The musical closed on February 24, 2008, after 30 previews and 910 regular performances. The production recouped its $11 million investment within its first year on Broadway, and had grossed over $103 million.

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

On June 18, 2018, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 8th anniversary benefit concert "Revolution" in New York City, at The Cutting Room. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The event was hosted by Anthony Bowens and Michael Pavano. Proceeds from the event went to The Tyler Clementi Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to end bullying. Past beneficiaries include The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community… Show more

On June 18, 2018, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 8th anniversary benefit concert "Revolution" in New York City, at The Cutting Room. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The event was hosted by Anthony Bowens and Michael Pavano. Proceeds from the event went to The Tyler Clementi Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to end bullying. Past beneficiaries include The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center and Hetrick-Martin Institute. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

During the event, Shefik was a guest speaker, where he delivered impactful and thought-provoking words of inspiration.

Charles Santoro served as musical director, arranger, and pianist for the event. He was joined by David Cinquegrana on guitar, Joe Mankin on bass guitar, and John Ferrari on percussion. Neal Bennington produced the event.

The trailer for the event features excerpts of performances by Shefik, Fran Drescher, Frankie Grande, Laura D'Andre, Neal Bennington, Anthony Bowens, Michael Pavano, Rachel Redleaf, Brian Falduto, Kelsey Martin, Michael Benjamin Bunin, Jake Ryan Flynn, Athan Sporek, Jack McCarthy, Connor Mills, Victoria Collett, Gabby Gutierrez, Desmond Is Amazing, Black Widow, Trisha Bordeaux, Jada Valenciaga, Jon Viktor Corpuz, Dr. Kevin Nadal, Dr. Remolia Simpson, Russell Fischer, Rebecca Larkin, Adam B. Shapiro, Haley Videckis, Layana White, Bre Jackson, Dina Marie, Kevin Smith Kirkwood, Kristen Parker Lovell, Valerie Smaldone, Jason Cianciotto, Christian Navarro, "Afterglow" Cast (Brandon Haagenson, Joe Chisholm, David Merten, Tim Young), Tym Moss, and "Hair" 50th Anniversary Reunion Cast — which was a highlight of the event. Show less

Hope Easterbrook started her dance training in her hometown of Goshen, New York, where she studied ballet, jazz, tap, and modern. She was introduced to hip-hop when she began training at The School at Steps in the Pre-Professional Program. After dancing at The School at Steps in high school, she was accepted to the Musical Theater and Dance Program at Marymount Manhattan College. While studying at Marymount Manhattan College, Easterbrook developed a passion for teaching and decided to pursue a… Show more

Hope Easterbrook started her dance training in her hometown of Goshen, New York, where she studied ballet, jazz, tap, and modern. She was introduced to hip-hop when she began training at The School at Steps in the Pre-Professional Program. After dancing at The School at Steps in high school, she was accepted to the Musical Theater and Dance Program at Marymount Manhattan College. While studying at Marymount Manhattan College, Easterbrook developed a passion for teaching and decided to pursue a career in teaching, and performing hip-hop.

Easterbrook has worked on a variety of performances and music videos for up-and-coming artists. In 2016, Easterbrook made her broadway debut in "Hamilton" as the first replacement to the original cast, while also fulfilling her dream of performing in the Tony Awards. Besides performing, Easterbrook has worked as associate choreographer for multiple projects, including "Ladies of Hip-Hop Festival" (2015), and "Broadway Bares" (2014-2017). She is looking forward to furthering her career as a dance instructor, and a well-rounded dancer.

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Easterbrook, backed by pianist and musical director Charles Santoro. The concert was scheduled on the day after the 72nd Annual Tony Awards.

Easterbrook performed the song "Everything I Know" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Everything I Know" is a song from "In the Heights".

"In the Heights" is a musical with concept, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda and a book by Quiara Alegría Hudes. The story is set over the course of three days, involving characters in the largely Dominican-American neighborhood of Washington Heights in New York City.

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Jelani Remy is a theatre actor known for his Broadway debut in Disney's "The Lion King" (playing the role of Simba), as well as his other Broadway appearance in "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations" (playing the role of Eddie Kendricks). Prior shows include "High School Musical" (National Tour), "High School Musical 2" (Fox Theater), "Smokey Joe's Cafe" (Off-Broadway), and "The Apple Boys" (Off-Broadway).

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre"… Show more

Jelani Remy is a theatre actor known for his Broadway debut in Disney's "The Lion King" (playing the role of Simba), as well as his other Broadway appearance in "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations" (playing the role of Eddie Kendricks). Prior shows include "High School Musical" (National Tour), "High School Musical 2" (Fox Theater), "Smokey Joe's Cafe" (Off-Broadway), and "The Apple Boys" (Off-Broadway).

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Remy, backed by pianist and musical director Charles Santoro. The concert was scheduled on the day after the 72nd Annual Tony Awards, further celebrating the talent and legacy of the Great White Way.

Remy performed the song "Make Them Hear You" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Make Them Hear You" is a song from "Ragtime".

"Ragtime" is a musical with music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and a book by Terrence McNally. It is based on the 1975 novel of the same name by E.L. Doctorow.

Set in the early 20th century, "Ragtime" tells the story of three groups in the United States: African Americans, represented by Coalhouse Walker Jr., a Harlem musician; upper-class suburbanites, represented by Mother, the matriarch of a white upper-class family in New Rochelle, New York; and Eastern European immigrants, represented by Tateh, a Jewish immigrant from Latvia. The show also incorporates historical figures such as Harry Houdini, Evelyn Nesbit, Booker T. Washington, J. P. Morgan, Henry Ford, Stanford White, Harry Kendall Thaw, Admiral Peary, Matthew Henson, and Emma Goldman.

The United States premiere was at the Shubert Theatre, Los Angeles in June 1997.

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Actress, singer, and dancer Lauren Zakrin has appeared on Broadway in the productions of "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child", "Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812", "Rock of Ages", as well as the national tours of "Wicked", "Grease", and "Legally Blonde". On television, Zakrin appeared in "Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert" (NBC), and "Search for the Next Elle Woods" (MTV).

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway… Show more

Actress, singer, and dancer Lauren Zakrin has appeared on Broadway in the productions of "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child", "Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812", "Rock of Ages", as well as the national tours of "Wicked", "Grease", and "Legally Blonde". On television, Zakrin appeared in "Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert" (NBC), and "Search for the Next Elle Woods" (MTV).

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Zakrin, backed by pianist and musical director Charles Santoro. The concert was scheduled on the day after the 72nd Annual Tony Awards, further celebrating the talent and legacy of the Great White Way.

Zakrin performed the song "No One Else" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "No One Else" is a song from "Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812".

"Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812" (or simply "The Great Comet") is a sung-through musical adaptation of a 70-page segment from Leo Tolstoy's 1869 novel "War and Peace" written by composer/lyricist Dave Malloy and directed by Rachel Chavkin. It is based on Part 8 of Tolstoy's novel, focusing on Natasha's affair with Anatole and Pierre's search for meaning in his life.

The musical originally ran at the Ars Nova in 2012, followed by 2013 stagings in both the Meatpacking District and the Theater District of Manhattan, a 2014 Spanish-language staging in Quito, Ecuador, and a 2015 remounting at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts. "The Great Comet" premiered on Broadway in 2016.

The original Off-Broadway production of the show had Dave Malloy playing Pierre Bezukhov. Once the show was taken to Broadway, Josh Groban made his Broadway debut.

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Maia Nkenge Wilson is an actress, who has appeared on Broadway, in "The Book of Mormon", "Waitress", "9 to 5", "Shrek the Musical", "The Color Purple", and "Rent". She is also known for appearances in the films "Frozen" (2013), "Top Five" (2014), and "Frozen II" (2019).

Yassmin Alers is also an actress, who has appeared on Broadway, in "On Your Feet!", "Chess", "The Rocky Horror Show", "The Capeman", and "Rent". On television, she has appeared in the series "Law & Order: Special Victims… Show more

Maia Nkenge Wilson is an actress, who has appeared on Broadway, in "The Book of Mormon", "Waitress", "9 to 5", "Shrek the Musical", "The Color Purple", and "Rent". She is also known for appearances in the films "Frozen" (2013), "Top Five" (2014), and "Frozen II" (2019).

Yassmin Alers is also an actress, who has appeared on Broadway, in "On Your Feet!", "Chess", "The Rocky Horror Show", "The Capeman", and "Rent". On television, she has appeared in the series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit", "The Code", "Madam Secretary" and "The Americans".

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Wilson and Alers, backed by pianist and musical director Charles Santoro. The concert was scheduled on the day after the 72nd Annual Tony Awards, further celebrating the talent and legacy of the Great White Way.

Wilson and Alers performed the song "Take Me or Leave Me" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Take Me or Leave Me" is a song from the musical "Rent", written by American composer Jonathan Larson. In the original 1996 Broadway production, the song was performed by Idina Menzel as Maureen and Fredi Walker as Joanne.

In the 2005 film adaptation, "Take Me or Leave Me" is performed by Menzel, reprising her role as Maureen, and Tracie Thoms as Joanne, since Walker was considered too old for the role. Remixes of the song were released on April 11, 2006.

Menzel has performed the song on a few concerts and tours, including "Barefoot at the Symphony Tour", "Idina Menzel: Live at Radio City", "Idina Menzel: World Tour", and as a duet with randomly-chosen audience members. She also performed the song at the end of a curtain call for "If/Then" in 2014.

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Rebecca Pitcher is an American musical theatre actress. She is primarily known for her role as Christine Daaé in the Broadway adaptation of "The Phantom of the Opera".

Pitcher graduated from Baldwin Wallace University in Ohio and later attended the Peabody Institute. She was part of the Pittsburgh Opera Center at Duquesne, playing roles such as Papagena in "The Magic Flute".

From 1999 to 2004, Pitcher played the role of Christine Daaé in "The Phantom of the Opera" on the third… Show more

Rebecca Pitcher is an American musical theatre actress. She is primarily known for her role as Christine Daaé in the Broadway adaptation of "The Phantom of the Opera".

Pitcher graduated from Baldwin Wallace University in Ohio and later attended the Peabody Institute. She was part of the Pittsburgh Opera Center at Duquesne, playing roles such as Papagena in "The Magic Flute".

From 1999 to 2004, Pitcher played the role of Christine Daaé in "The Phantom of the Opera" on the third national tour. A year later, she joined the Broadway cast as an alternate for Christine Daaé, and on April 17, 2006, she became the main performer of the role, replacing Sandra Joseph.

In February 2018, Pitcher joined the cast of "Carousel" on Broadway.

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Pitcher, backed by pianist and musical director Charles Santoro. The concert was scheduled on the day after the 72nd Annual Tony Awards, further celebrating the talent and legacy of the Great White Way.

Pitcher performed the song "Home" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Home" is a song from the musical "Phantom", with music and lyrics by Maury Yeston and a book by Arthur Kopit. Based on Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel "The Phantom of the Opera", the musical was first presented in 1991.

Although it has never appeared on Broadway and has been overshadowed by the success of the 1986 Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, Yeston and Kopit's "Phantom" has received over 1,000 productions.

Yeston and Kopit had just finished the musical "Nine", winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical in 1982, when in 1983 they were approached by actor and director Geoffrey Holder to write a musical based on Leroux's novel.

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With a tenor voice and falsetto range, Russell Fischer landed the role of Joe Pesci in the Broadway company of "Jersey Boys" on his 22nd birthday, marking his Broadway debut. Fischer spent the next 6 years as an understudy for the role of Frankie Valli as well.

Fischer starred in the second national tour of "Big: The Musical" as Billy Kopecki. His regional credits include Jimmy Smith in "Thoroughly Modern Millie", Tommy Djilas in "The Music Man" at Chautauqua Opera, the American premiere… Show more

With a tenor voice and falsetto range, Russell Fischer landed the role of Joe Pesci in the Broadway company of "Jersey Boys" on his 22nd birthday, marking his Broadway debut. Fischer spent the next 6 years as an understudy for the role of Frankie Valli as well.

Fischer starred in the second national tour of "Big: The Musical" as Billy Kopecki. His regional credits include Jimmy Smith in "Thoroughly Modern Millie", Tommy Djilas in "The Music Man" at Chautauqua Opera, the American premiere of "Children of Eden" at Papermill Playhouse, and Tommy Swank in "Baby Fat, Act 1: A Rock Opera" at LaMama Experimental Theater Club in New York City.

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Fischer, backed by pianist and musical director Charles Santoro. The concert was scheduled on the day after the 72nd Annual Tony Awards, further celebrating the talent and legacy of the Great White Way.

Fischer performed the song "Bring Him Home" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Bring Him Home" is a song from the musical "Les Misérables".

"Les Misérables" is a sung-through musical and an adaptation of Victor Hugo's 1862 novel of the same name, by Claude-Michel Schönberg (music), Alain Boublil, Jean-Marc Natel (original French lyrics), and Herbert Kretzmer (English lyrics). The original French musical premiered in Paris in 1980 with direction by Robert Hossein. Its English-language adaptation by producer Cameron Mackintosh has been running in London since October 1985, making it the longest-running musical in the West End and the second longest-running musical in the world after the original Off-Broadway run of "The Fantasticks".

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Sarah Rice is an American theatre actress known for her work in the Stephen Sondheim productions "Sweeney Todd" and "A Little Night Music", the former of which won her a Theatre World Award in 1979.

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a… Show more

Sarah Rice is an American theatre actress known for her work in the Stephen Sondheim productions "Sweeney Todd" and "A Little Night Music", the former of which won her a Theatre World Award in 1979.

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Rice, backed by pianist and musical director Charles Santoro. The concert was scheduled on the day after the 72nd Annual Tony Awards, further celebrating the talent and legacy of the Great White Way.

Rice performed the song "Green Finch and Linnet Bird" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Green Finch and Linnet Bird" is a song from "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street".

"Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" (often referred to simply as "Sweeney Todd") is a musical play with music and lyrics by Sondheim and a book by Hugh Wheeler. It is based on the 1970 play of the same name by Christopher Bond. The character of Sweeney Todd first appeared in a Victorian penny dreadful titled "The String of Pearls" (1846-1847).

"Sweeney Todd" opened on Broadway in 1979 and in the West End in 1980. It won the Tony Award for Best Musical and Olivier Award for Best New Musical. It has been revived in many productions as well as inspiring a film adaptation.

The original logo for the musical is a modified version of an advertising image from the 19th century, with the sign replaced by a straight razor. There is also a woman wearing a blood-stained dress and holding a rolling pin next to the man.

Set in 1785, the story "The String of Pearls" featured as its principal villain a certain Sweeney Todd and included all the plot elements used in later versions.

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Stephanie Lynne Mason appeared as Hodl in the critically-acclaimed production of "Fidler Afn Dakh" ("Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish"), directed by Joel Grey, Off-Broadway at Stage 42. She previously originated the role in the production at The Museum of Jewish Heritage by National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene.

Rosie Jo Neddy appeared originated the role of Khave in the production of "Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish", at The Museum of Jewish Heritage by National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene.… Show more

Stephanie Lynne Mason appeared as Hodl in the critically-acclaimed production of "Fidler Afn Dakh" ("Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish"), directed by Joel Grey, Off-Broadway at Stage 42. She previously originated the role in the production at The Museum of Jewish Heritage by National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene.

Rosie Jo Neddy appeared originated the role of Khave in the production of "Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish", at The Museum of Jewish Heritage by National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene.

Rachel Zatcoff appeared as Tsaytl in "Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish", Off-Broadway at Stage 42. She made her Broadway debut as Christine Daaé in "The Phantom of the Opera". She has also performed with the International Tour of "West Side Story" in the role of Maria.

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Mason, Neddy, and Zatcoff, backed by pianist and musical director Charles Santoro. The concert was scheduled on the day after the 72nd Annual Tony Awards, further celebrating the talent and legacy of the Great White Way.

As a trio, Mason, Neddy, and Zatcoff performed the song "Matchmaker, Matchmaker" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Matchmaker, Matchmaker" is a song from the 1964 musical "Fiddler on the Roof", with music by Jerry Bock and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. It was later made into a film in 1971.

The story revolves around a poor Jewish milkman (Tevye) and his five daughters, as he attempts to maintain his Jewish traditions. His three eldest daughters marry, but each daughter's choice of husband moves further and further away from their traditions.

The daughters sing about a matchmaker choosing a partner for them.

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Yassmin Alers is also an actress, who has appeared on Broadway, in "On Your Feet!", "Chess", "The Rocky Horror Show", "The Capeman", and "Rent". On television, she has appeared in the series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit", "The Code", "Madam Secretary" and "The Americans".

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York… Show more

Yassmin Alers is also an actress, who has appeared on Broadway, in "On Your Feet!", "Chess", "The Rocky Horror Show", "The Capeman", and "Rent". On television, she has appeared in the series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit", "The Code", "Madam Secretary" and "The Americans".

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Alers, backed by pianist and musical director Charles Santoro. The concert was scheduled on the day after the 72nd Annual Tony Awards, further celebrating the talent and legacy of the Great White Way.

Alers performed the song "Out Tonight" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Out Tonight" is a song from "Rent".

"Rent" is a rock musical with music, lyrics, and book by Jonathan Larson, loosely based on Giacomo Puccini's 1896 opera "La Bohème". It tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling to survive and create a life in Lower Manhattan's East Village in the thriving days of bohemian Alphabet City, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS.

The musical was first seen in a workshop production at New York Theatre Workshop in 1993. This same Off-Broadway theatre was also the musical's initial home following its official 1996 opening. The show's creator, Jonathan Larson, died suddenly of an aortic dissection, believed to have been caused by undiagnosed Marfan syndrome, the night before the off-Broadway premiere. The musical moved to Broadway's larger Nederlander Theatre on April 29, 1996.

On Broadway, "Rent" gained critical acclaim and won several awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Musical. The Broadway production closed on September 7, 2008, making it one of the longest-running shows on Broadway.

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Rebecca Larkin is an actress and director, known for the short films "The Rub" (2017), "The Mariner's Revenge" (2014), and "Understanding Conflict" (2013), as well as her appearances on Broadway. Larkin made her Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning Lincoln Center Revival of "South Pacific", where she played the role of Liat.

"South Pacific" is a musical composed by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and book by Hammerstein and Joshua Logan. The work premiered in… Show more

Rebecca Larkin is an actress and director, known for the short films "The Rub" (2017), "The Mariner's Revenge" (2014), and "Understanding Conflict" (2013), as well as her appearances on Broadway. Larkin made her Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning Lincoln Center Revival of "South Pacific", where she played the role of Liat.

"South Pacific" is a musical composed by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and book by Hammerstein and Joshua Logan. The work premiered in 1949 on Broadway and was an immediate hit, running for 1,925 performances. The plot is based on James A. Michener's Pulitzer Prize winning 1947 book "Tales of the South Pacific" and combines elements of several of those stories. Rodgers and Hammerstein believed they could write a musical based on Michener's work that would be financially successful and, at the same time, send a strong progressive message on racism.

Larkin has also performed in the Tony Award winning Broadway production of "Avenue Q", as well as the 1st National Tour of "Barbie Live! in Fairytopia".

On June 11, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert (titled "Encore") featured a performance by Larkin, backed by pianist and musical director Charles Santoro.

Larkin performed the song "Dyin' Ain't So Bad" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Dyin' Ain't So Bad" is a song from "Bonnie & Clyde".

"Bonnie & Clyde" is a musical with music by Frank Wildhorn, lyrics by Don Black, and a book by Ivan Menchell. The world premiere took place in San Diego, California in November 2009. The musical centers on Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, the ill-fated lovers and outlaws whose story has been infamous since they achieved folk hero status during the Great Depression.

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International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award… Show more

International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album.

On May 7, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by N'Kenge, backed by pianist and musical director Josh Kight.

N'Kenge performed a medley of the songs "Bye Bye Baby" and "Two Lovers" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. Both of the songs in the medley were originally performed by R&B singer Mary Wells.

"Bye Bye Baby" is the first single by Wells, released in September 1960 on Motown Records, from her album "Bye Bye Baby I Don't Want to Take a Chance". The song was one of Motown's earliest hit singles and showcased a much rougher vocal than the singer had during her later years.

"Bye Bye Baby" became an R&B hit reaching number 8 on the Billboard R&B singles chart and crossed over to pop stations where it peaked at number 45. It was significant as the first single released under one of the Motown subsidiaries nationally after the label's first singles were released through distributing labels such as United Artists.

"Two Lovers" is a single released in 1962 by Wells on Motown Records, from her album of the same name. The song was the third consecutive hit to be both written and produced by Smokey Robinson of The Miracles and recorded by Wells.

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International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award… Show more

International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album.

On May 7, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by N'Kenge, backed by pianist and musical director Josh Kight.

N'Kenge performed "My Guy", where Shefik served as Videographer. "My Guy" is a 1964 hit single by Mary Wells for Motown Records. Written and produced by Smokey Robinson of The Miracles, the song is a woman's rejection of a sexual advance and affirmation of her fidelity to her boyfriend, who is her ideal and with whom she is happy, despite his ordinary physique and looks.

At the session for the "My Guy" backing track, the studio musicians were having issues completing the intro. With the musicians having been playing all day and a half-hour scheduled studio time left, trombonist George Bohanon said to keyboardist Earl Van Dyke that the opening measure of "Canadian Sunset" could be perfectly juxtaposed on the intro's chord changes, and Van Dyke, the session bandleader, expediently constructed an intro incorporating the opening of "Canadian Sunset" and also the "left hand notes" from "Canadian Sunset" composer Eddie Heywood's rendition of "Begin the Beguine".

"My Guy" became the biggest hit ever for Wells, and reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 on May 16, 1964.

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International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award… Show more

International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album.

On May 7, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by N'Kenge, backed by pianist and musical director Josh Kight.

N'Kenge performed the song "Poor Sweet Baby" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Poor Sweet Baby" is a song from "Snoopy! The Musical". During the performance of "Poor Sweet Baby", the characters Peppermint Patty and Charlie Brown discuss understanding what love is.

"Snoopy! The Musical" is a musical comedy with music by Larry Grossman, lyrics by Hal Hackady, and a book by Warren Lockhart, Arthur Whitelaw, and Michael Grace. The characters are from the Charles M. Schulz comic strip "Peanuts". This sequel to the musical "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" focuses more on the life of Snoopy. Since its premiere, the musical has been a popular choice for regional, international, and amateur theatre performances.

The musical was produced Off-Broadway at the Lamb's Theatre opening December 20, 1982 — directed by Whitelaw, with David Garrison as Snoopy. The show performed 152 performances until it closed on May 1, 1983. The crew included Paul D. Hughes, Martin Markinson, Gene Persson, and Donald Tick as producers.

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Arbender Robinson made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of "Hairspray", where he covered the role of Seaweed. In the original cast of Disney's "The Little Mermaid", he covered the role of Prince Eric. He also served as the Dance Captain and Swing for the Broadway revival of "Hair" and was seen in the Broadway revival of "Ragtime". His Broadway credits continue with Disney's "The Lion King". Since then, he was in the original cast of "Beautiful: The Carole King… Show more

Arbender Robinson made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of "Hairspray", where he covered the role of Seaweed. In the original cast of Disney's "The Little Mermaid", he covered the role of Prince Eric. He also served as the Dance Captain and Swing for the Broadway revival of "Hair" and was seen in the Broadway revival of "Ragtime". His Broadway credits continue with Disney's "The Lion King". Since then, he was in the original cast of "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Robinson, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Robinson performed the song "Make Them Hear You" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Make Them Hear You" is a song from "Ragtime".

"Ragtime" is a musical with music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and a book by Terrence McNally. It is based on the 1975 novel of the same name by E.L. Doctorow.

Set in the early 20th century, "Ragtime" tells the story of three groups in the United States: African Americans, represented by Coalhouse Walker Jr., a Harlem musician; upper-class suburbanites, represented by Mother, the matriarch of a white upper-class family in New Rochelle, New York; and Eastern European immigrants, represented by Tateh, a Jewish immigrant from Latvia. The show also incorporates historical figures such as Harry Houdini, Evelyn Nesbit, Booker T. Washington, J. P. Morgan, Henry Ford, Stanford White, Harry Kendall Thaw, Admiral Peary, Matthew Henson, and Emma Goldman.

The musical had its world premiere in Toronto, where it opened at the Ford Centre for the Performing Arts (later renamed the Toronto Centre for the Arts) on December 8, 1996.

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Arbender Robinson made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of "Hairspray", where he covered the role of Seaweed. In the original cast of Disney's "The Little Mermaid", he covered the role of Prince Eric. He also served as the Dance Captain and Swing for the Broadway revival of "Hair" and was seen in the Broadway revival of "Ragtime". His Broadway credits continue with Disney's "The Lion King". Since then, he was in the original cast of "Beautiful: The Carole King… Show more

Arbender Robinson made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of "Hairspray", where he covered the role of Seaweed. In the original cast of Disney's "The Little Mermaid", he covered the role of Prince Eric. He also served as the Dance Captain and Swing for the Broadway revival of "Hair" and was seen in the Broadway revival of "Ragtime". His Broadway credits continue with Disney's "The Lion King". Since then, he was in the original cast of "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Robinson, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Robinson performed the song "On Broadway" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "On Broadway" is a song written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, in collaboration with the team of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.

Mann and Weil were based at Aldon Music, located at 1650 Broadway in New York City, and the song as written by Mann and Weil was originally recorded by The Cookies (although The Crystals' version beat them to release) and featured an upbeat lyric in which the protagonist is still on her way to Broadway and sings, "I got to get there soon, or I'll just die." The song was played as a shuffle.

When Leiber and Stoller let it be known that The Drifters had booked studio time for the following day and were a song short, Mann and Weil forwarded "On Broadway". Leiber and Stoller liked the song, but felt that it was not quite right. The four held an overnight brainstorming session that culminated in the better-known version, now with a rock-oriented groove and with a more bluesy feel, which matched the new lyric in which the singer was now actually on Broadway and having a hard time.

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Arbender Robinson made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of "Hairspray", where he covered the role of Seaweed. In the original cast of Disney's "The Little Mermaid", he covered the role of Prince Eric. He also served as the Dance Captain and Swing for the Broadway revival of "Hair" and was seen in the Broadway revival of "Ragtime". His Broadway credits continue with Disney's "The Lion King". Since then, he was in the original cast of "Beautiful: The Carole King… Show more

Arbender Robinson made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of "Hairspray", where he covered the role of Seaweed. In the original cast of Disney's "The Little Mermaid", he covered the role of Prince Eric. He also served as the Dance Captain and Swing for the Broadway revival of "Hair" and was seen in the Broadway revival of "Ragtime". His Broadway credits continue with Disney's "The Lion King". Since then, he was in the original cast of "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Robinson, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Robinson performed the song "Summer, Highland Falls" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Summer, Highland Falls" is a song written by Billy Joel. The song was featured on Joel's fourth studio album "Turnstiles", released on May 19, 1976.

Joel recorded "Turnstiles" in part as a celebration of his return to his native New York City. Three of the album's tracks reference New York: "Summer, Highland Falls", "New York State of Mind", and "Miami 2017 (Seen the Lights Go Out on Broadway)". It begins with "Say Goodbye to Hollywood" (inspired by The Ronettes song "Be My Baby") and also includes "I've Loved These Days", a tongue-in-cheek expression of regret at leaving behind Hollywood decadence. In an interview, Joel stated that the lyrics to the song "James" referred to various different people he knew in real life, with the title character being a "composite" of those people. In the song "Prelude/Angry Young Man", Joel opens and closes the song rapidly hammering the piano, which was meant to simulate the drum part in the song "Wipe Out" by The Surfaris.

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Arbender Robinson made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of "Hairspray", where he covered the role of Seaweed. In the original cast of Disney's "The Little Mermaid", he covered the role of Prince Eric. He also served as the Dance Captain and Swing for the Broadway revival of "Hair" and was seen in the Broadway revival of "Ragtime". His Broadway credits continue with Disney's "The Lion King". Since then, he was in the original cast of "Beautiful: The Carole King… Show more

Arbender Robinson made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of "Hairspray", where he covered the role of Seaweed. In the original cast of Disney's "The Little Mermaid", he covered the role of Prince Eric. He also served as the Dance Captain and Swing for the Broadway revival of "Hair" and was seen in the Broadway revival of "Ragtime". His Broadway credits continue with Disney's "The Lion King". Since then, he was in the original cast of "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Robinson, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Robinson performed the song "Your Side" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Your Side" is a song written by Katie Thompson and Matt Loehr, and performed by Thompson. The song was featured on Thompson's album "Private Page", released in 2011.

Thompson has been seen as Rhetta Cup in "Pump Boys & Dinettes" at New York City Center, as The Witch in "Big Fish" at Oriental Theatre, and as Vashti Hake in "Giant" at The Public Theater. In addition to her work as an actress, Thompson's original music has been featured on "So You Think You Can Dance" (America, Canada, and United Kingdom). She has been a featured composer in Playbill's "Contemporary Musical Theater Songwriter's You Should Know", "It's Revving Up — The Next Generation of Female Songwriters", and her work has been featured in Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts' "New Contemporary Songbook" series. Her favorite experiences include playing cards in the green room at The Public Theater, and singing for First Lady Michelle Obama.

"Your Side" was also featured in the Off-Broadway production of "R.R.R.E.D.: A Secret Musical".

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Gayle Turner was nominated for the Colorado Theatre Guild's Henry Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical. The role was Geneva Lee Brown in "1940's Radio Hour", directed by Bev Newcomb Madden at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities. Turner has worked with musical director David Nehls and director Bill Castellino ("Smokey Joe's Cafe", "Abyssinia", "Little Shop of Horrors").

Arbender Robinson made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of… Show more

Gayle Turner was nominated for the Colorado Theatre Guild's Henry Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical. The role was Geneva Lee Brown in "1940's Radio Hour", directed by Bev Newcomb Madden at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities. Turner has worked with musical director David Nehls and director Bill Castellino ("Smokey Joe's Cafe", "Abyssinia", "Little Shop of Horrors").

Arbender Robinson made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of "Hairspray", where he covered the role of Seaweed. In the original cast of Disney's "The Little Mermaid", he covered the role of Prince Eric. He also served as the Dance Captain and Swing for the Broadway revival of "Hair" and was seen in the Broadway revival of "Ragtime". His Broadway credits continue with Disney's "The Lion King". Since then, he was in the original cast of "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

Nasia Thomas is an actress, singer, and dancer, known for "The Last Five Years" (2021), "4400" (2021) and "Clayton Howe's Entertainmentx" (2018). Starting December 5, 2022, she played the role Anna of Cleves in the Broadway production of "SIX: The Musical". her other Broadway credits include "Caroline, or Change", "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations", and "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Turner, Robinson, and Thomas, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

The trio performed the song "My Funny Valentine" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "My Funny Valentine" is a show tune from the 1937 Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart coming of age musical "Babes in Arms".

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Gayle Turner was nominated for the Colorado Theatre Guild's Henry Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical. The role was Geneva Lee Brown in "1940's Radio Hour", directed by Bev Newcomb Madden at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities. Turner has worked with musical director David Nehls and director Bill Castellino ("Smokey Joe's Cafe", "Abyssinia", "Little Shop of Horrors").

International audiences will remember her performances in the Richard Allen Center's… Show more

Gayle Turner was nominated for the Colorado Theatre Guild's Henry Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical. The role was Geneva Lee Brown in "1940's Radio Hour", directed by Bev Newcomb Madden at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities. Turner has worked with musical director David Nehls and director Bill Castellino ("Smokey Joe's Cafe", "Abyssinia", "Little Shop of Horrors").

International audiences will remember her performances in the Richard Allen Center's production of "Black Nativity" in Rome, Italy (co-directed by Morgan Freeman). Turner's performing background includes theatre, television, concerts, recording, commercials, and special events. She is proud to have a recurring role as Officer Dominguez on NBC's "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit".

"The Wiz: The Super Soul Musical 'Wonderful Wizard of Oz'" is a musical with music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls (and others) and book by William F. Brown. It is a retelling of L. Frank Baum's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" (1900) in the context of contemporary African-American culture.

The 1975 Broadway production won 7 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. It was an early example of Broadway's mainstream acceptance of works with an all Black cast. Turner served as the understudy to Stephanie Mills in the role of Dorothy for three years.

A film adaptation of the same name was released in 1978, with Ted Ross and Mabel King reprising their roles, alongside Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell, Theresa Merritt, Thelma Carpenter, Lena Horne, and Richard Pryor.

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre.

Turner performed the song "Be a Lion" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Be a Lion", is a song from the 1975 Broadway musical "The Wiz".

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Gayle Turner was nominated for the Colorado Theatre Guild's Henry Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical. The role was Geneva Lee Brown in "1940's Radio Hour", at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities. Turner has worked with musical director David Nehls and director Bill Castellino ("Smokey Joe's Cafe", "Abyssinia", "Little Shop of Horrors").

International audiences will remember her performances in the Richard Allen Center's production of "Black Nativity" in Rome,… Show more

Gayle Turner was nominated for the Colorado Theatre Guild's Henry Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical. The role was Geneva Lee Brown in "1940's Radio Hour", at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities. Turner has worked with musical director David Nehls and director Bill Castellino ("Smokey Joe's Cafe", "Abyssinia", "Little Shop of Horrors").

International audiences will remember her performances in the Richard Allen Center's production of "Black Nativity" in Rome, Italy (co-directed by Morgan Freeman). Turner's performing background includes theatre, television, concerts, recording, commercials, and special events. She is proud to have a recurring role as Officer Dominguez on NBC's "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit".

"The Wiz: The Super Soul Musical 'Wonderful Wizard of Oz'" is a musical with music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls (and others) and book by William F. Brown. It is a retelling of L. Frank Baum's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz".

The 1975 Broadway production won 7 Tony Awards. It was an example of Broadway's mainstream acceptance of works with an all Black cast. Turner served as the understudy to Stephanie Mills in the role of Dorothy for three years.

A film adaptation of the same name was released in 1978, with Ted Ross and Mabel King reprising their roles, alongside Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell, Theresa Merritt, Thelma Carpenter, Lena Horne, and Richard Pryor.

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Turner, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Turner performed the song "Believe in Yourself" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Believe in Yourself", is a song from the 1975 Broadway musical "The Wiz".

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Nasia Thomas is an actress, singer, and dancer, known for "The Last Five Years" (2021), "4400" (2021) and "Clayton Howe's Entertainmentx" (2018). Starting December 5, 2022, she played the role Anna of Cleves in the Broadway production of "SIX: The Musical". her other Broadway credits include "Caroline, or Change", "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations", and "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series… Show more

Nasia Thomas is an actress, singer, and dancer, known for "The Last Five Years" (2021), "4400" (2021) and "Clayton Howe's Entertainmentx" (2018). Starting December 5, 2022, she played the role Anna of Cleves in the Broadway production of "SIX: The Musical". her other Broadway credits include "Caroline, or Change", "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations", and "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Robinson, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Thomas performed the song "Almost There" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Almost There" is a song written by Randy Newman for Walt Disney Pictures' 49th animated feature film "The Princess and the Frog" (2009). It was originally recorded by actress and singer Anika Noni Rose in her film role as Tiana. The song was nominated for Best Original Song at the 82nd Academy Awards, but lost to "The Weary Kind" from "Crazy Heart". "Down in New Orleans", another song from the film, performed by Dr. John (with prologue and finale versions by Rose), was also nominated for the Academy Award.

In the film, the characters Tiana and her mother Eudora are at Tiana's restaurant. In the song, Tiana is singing that she is "Almost There" to successfully opening her dream restaurant. During the song sequence, the animation shifts to the same art deco style used in Tiana's picture of her dream restaurant that her father James gave her.

Besides the original English version, Disney Character Voices International released "The Princess and the Frog" (including the song) dubbed in 41 foreign-language versions of "Almost There".

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Nasia Thomas is an actress, singer, and dancer, known for "The Last Five Years" (2021), "4400" (2021) and "Clayton Howe's Entertainmentx" (2018). Starting December 5, 2022, she played the role Anna of Cleves in the Broadway production of "SIX: The Musical". her other Broadway credits include "Caroline, or Change", "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations", and "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" series in… Show more

Nasia Thomas is an actress, singer, and dancer, known for "The Last Five Years" (2021), "4400" (2021) and "Clayton Howe's Entertainmentx" (2018). Starting December 5, 2022, she played the role Anna of Cleves in the Broadway production of "SIX: The Musical". her other Broadway credits include "Caroline, or Change", "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations", and "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the saloon inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Thomas, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Thomas performed the song "Keepin' Out of Mischief Now" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Keepin' Out of Mischief Now" is a jazz title, written by Fats Waller (music) and Andy Razaf (lyrics), and released in 1932.

Waller (May 21, 1904 – December 15, 1943) was an American jazz pianist, organist, composer, violinist, singer, and comedic entertainer. His innovations in the Harlem stride style laid much of the basis for modern jazz piano. His best-known compositions, "Ain't Misbehavin'" and "Honeysuckle Rose", were inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1984 and 1999. Waller copyrighted over 400 songs, many of them co-written with his closest collaborator, Razaf.

Razaf described his partner as "the soul of melody... a man who made the piano sing... both big in body and in mind... known for his generosity... a bubbling bundle of joy".

It is likely that Waller composed many more popular songs than he has been credited with. When in financial difficulties, he had a habit of selling songs to other writers and performers who claimed them as their own.

Waller started playing the piano at the age of six, and became a professional organist at 15. By the age of 18, he was a recording artist.

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Videographer: Shefik Show less

Nasia Thomas is an actress, singer, and dancer, known for "The Last Five Years" (2021), "4400" (2021) and "Clayton Howe's Entertainmentx" (2018). Starting December 5, 2022, she played the role Anna of Cleves in the Broadway production of "SIX: The Musical". her other Broadway credits include "Caroline, or Change", "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations", and "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series… Show more

Nasia Thomas is an actress, singer, and dancer, known for "The Last Five Years" (2021), "4400" (2021) and "Clayton Howe's Entertainmentx" (2018). Starting December 5, 2022, she played the role Anna of Cleves in the Broadway production of "SIX: The Musical". her other Broadway credits include "Caroline, or Change", "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations", and "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical".

On February 26, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Thomas, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Thomas performed the song "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Will You Love Me Tomorrow", sometimes known as "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow", is a song with words by Gerry Goffin and music composed by Carole King. It was recorded in 1960 by The Shirelles at Bell Sound Studios in New York City, and hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song was the first by a Black all-girl group to reach number one in the United States. It has since been recorded by many other artists including a 1971 version by co-writer King.

In 1960, The Shirelles released the first version of the song as Scepter single 1211, with "Boys" on the B-side. The single's first pressing was labeled simply "Tomorrow", then lengthened later. When first presented with the song, lead singer Shirley Owens (later known as Shirley Alston-Reeves) did not want to record it, because she thought it was "too country". She relented after a string arrangement was added. However, Owens recalled on Jim Parsons' syndicated oldies radio program, "Shake Rattle Showtime", that some radio stations had banned the record because they had felt the lyrics were too sexually charged.

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Videographer: Shefik Show less

Antoine L. Smith is an Emmy Award winner, originally from Gary, Indiana. His Broadway credits include the original cast of "MJ: The Musical", where he starred as Berry Gordy and Nick; "The Color Purple" (2015 Revival); "Carousel"; "Miss Saigon"; and "Memphis".

Smith also starred as Curly in the award winning all Black cast of "Oklahoma" at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, where he went on to win the Henry Award for Best Lead Actor in a Musical. Additionally, Smith is an… Show more

Antoine L. Smith is an Emmy Award winner, originally from Gary, Indiana. His Broadway credits include the original cast of "MJ: The Musical", where he starred as Berry Gordy and Nick; "The Color Purple" (2015 Revival); "Carousel"; "Miss Saigon"; and "Memphis".

Smith also starred as Curly in the award winning all Black cast of "Oklahoma" at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, where he went on to win the Henry Award for Best Lead Actor in a Musical. Additionally, Smith is an accomplished Voice-Over actor. He has voiced the Nickelodeon animated series "Nella the Princess Knight" as King Dad, as well as several television and radio commercials for Squarespace, Pepsi, Lowe's, Smirnoff, North Carolina Lottery, Mylanta, Chili's, Chase, Silent Hill, and KFC, along with several video games.

On January 24, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Smith.

Smith performed the song "Bui Doi" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Bui Doi" is the opening song of Act II from the musical "Miss Saigon", sung by the character John with the chorus. John, who is now working for the Bui Doi Organization, addresses a conference in Atlanta which the character Chris and his wife Ellen are attending as per John's request.

The title of the song refers to the Vietnamese term "bụi đời", which literally means "dust of life", and in the musical, refers to the children of American soldiers and Vietnamese mothers abandoned at the end of the Vietnam War. However, "bụi đời" is actually used in Vietnam to refer to street children regardless of the race. People from Vietnam normally refer to Amerasians as "Mỹ lai" (mixed American and Vietnamese), "con lai" (mixed-race child), or "người lai" (mixed-race person).

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Antoine L. Smith is an Emmy Award winner, originally from Gary, Indiana. His Broadway credits include the original cast of "MJ: The Musical", where he starred as Berry Gordy and Nick; "The Color Purple" (2015 Revival); "Carousel"; "Miss Saigon"; and "Memphis".

Smith also starred as Curly in the award winning all Black cast of "Oklahoma" at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, where he went on to win the Henry Award for Best Lead Actor in a Musical. Additionally, Smith is an… Show more

Antoine L. Smith is an Emmy Award winner, originally from Gary, Indiana. His Broadway credits include the original cast of "MJ: The Musical", where he starred as Berry Gordy and Nick; "The Color Purple" (2015 Revival); "Carousel"; "Miss Saigon"; and "Memphis".

Smith also starred as Curly in the award winning all Black cast of "Oklahoma" at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, where he went on to win the Henry Award for Best Lead Actor in a Musical. Additionally, Smith is an accomplished Voice-Over actor. He has voiced the Nickelodeon animated series "Nella the Princess Knight" as King Dad, as well as several television and radio commercials for Squarespace, Pepsi, Lowe's, Smirnoff, North Carolina Lottery, Mylanta, Chili's, Chase, Silent Hill, and KFC, along with several video games.

On January 24, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Smith, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Smith performed the song "Johnny B. Goode" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Johnny B. Goode" is a 1958 rock song written and first recorded by Chuck Berry. Released as a single, it peaked at number two on Billboard's Hot R&B Sides chart and number eight on its pre-Hot 100 chart.

"Johnny B. Goode" is considered one of the most recognizable songs in the history of popular music. Credited as "the first Rock & Roll hit about Rock & Roll stardom", it has been recorded by many other artists and has received several honors and accolades, including being ranked seventh on Rolling Stone's list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" and included as one of the 27 songs on the Voyager Golden Record, a collection of music, images, and sounds designed to serve as a record of humanity.

Credits

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Antoine L. Smith is an Emmy Award winner, originally from Gary, Indiana. His Broadway credits include the original cast of "MJ: The Musical", where he starred as Berry Gordy and Nick; "The Color Purple" (2015 Revival); "Carousel"; "Miss Saigon"; and "Memphis".

Smith also starred as Curly in the award winning all Black cast of "Oklahoma" at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, where he went on to win the Henry Award for Best Lead Actor in a Musical. Additionally, Smith is an… Show more

Antoine L. Smith is an Emmy Award winner, originally from Gary, Indiana. His Broadway credits include the original cast of "MJ: The Musical", where he starred as Berry Gordy and Nick; "The Color Purple" (2015 Revival); "Carousel"; "Miss Saigon"; and "Memphis".

Smith also starred as Curly in the award winning all Black cast of "Oklahoma" at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, where he went on to win the Henry Award for Best Lead Actor in a Musical. Additionally, Smith is an accomplished Voice-Over actor. He has voiced the Nickelodeon animated series "Nella the Princess Knight" as King Dad, as well as several television and radio commercials for Squarespace, Pepsi, Lowe's, Smirnoff, North Carolina Lottery, Mylanta, Chili's, Chase, Silent Hill, and KFC, along with several video games.

On January 24, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Smith, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Smith performed the song "Muddy Water" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Muddy Water" is a song from "Big River: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn". The production is a musical with music and lyrics by Roger Miller, and a book by William Hauptman.

Based on Mark Twain's classic 1884 novel "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn", "Big River: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" features music in the bluegrass and country styles in keeping with the setting of the novel. The 1985 Broadway production ran for more than 1,000 performances and it remained one of the few very successful American musicals in the mid-1980s among the emerging successes coming from Great Britain. "Big River" won 7 Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

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Antoine L. Smith is an Emmy Award winner, originally from Gary, Indiana. His Broadway credits include the original cast of "MJ: The Musical", where he starred as Berry Gordy and Nick; "The Color Purple" (2015 Revival); "Carousel"; "Miss Saigon"; and "Memphis".

Smith also starred as Curly in the award winning all Black cast of "Oklahoma" at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, where he went on to win the Henry Award for Best Lead Actor in a Musical. Additionally, Smith is an… Show more

Antoine L. Smith is an Emmy Award winner, originally from Gary, Indiana. His Broadway credits include the original cast of "MJ: The Musical", where he starred as Berry Gordy and Nick; "The Color Purple" (2015 Revival); "Carousel"; "Miss Saigon"; and "Memphis".

Smith also starred as Curly in the award winning all Black cast of "Oklahoma" at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, where he went on to win the Henry Award for Best Lead Actor in a Musical. Additionally, Smith is an accomplished Voice-Over actor. He has voiced the Nickelodeon animated series "Nella the Princess Knight" as King Dad, as well as several television and radio commercials for Squarespace, Pepsi, Lowe's, Smirnoff, North Carolina Lottery, Mylanta, Chili's, Chase, Silent Hill, and KFC, along with video games.

On January 24, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Smith, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Smith performed "You'll Never Walk Alone", where Shefik served as Videographer. "You'll Never Walk Alone" is a show tune from the 1945 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical "Carousel". In the second act of the musical, Nettie Fowler, the cousin of the protagonist Julie Jordan, sings "You'll Never Walk Alone" to comfort and encourage Julie when her husband, Billy Bigelow, the male lead, stabs himself with a knife whilst trying to run away after attempting a robbery with his mate Jigger and dies in her arms. The song is reprised in the final scene to encourage a graduation class of which Louise (Billy and Julie's daughter) is a member. The now invisible Billy, who has been granted the chance to return to Earth for one day in order to redeem himself, watches the ceremony and is able to silently motivate Louise and Julie to join in with the song.

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Dan Domenech is an American actor, best known for his understudy portrayal of Jason Dean in "Heathers: The Musical", Drew in the Broadway musical "Rock of Ages", and a recurring guest appearance on the television series "Glee" (FOX). Domenech has also appeared in the pre-Broadway runs of "Wonderland" and "Sister Act". National and international tours include "Rent" and "Rock of Ages". In 2012, he performed in the Disney Theatrical Productions workshop of "Aladdin".

When not on tour… Show more

Dan Domenech is an American actor, best known for his understudy portrayal of Jason Dean in "Heathers: The Musical", Drew in the Broadway musical "Rock of Ages", and a recurring guest appearance on the television series "Glee" (FOX). Domenech has also appeared in the pre-Broadway runs of "Wonderland" and "Sister Act". National and international tours include "Rent" and "Rock of Ages". In 2012, he performed in the Disney Theatrical Productions workshop of "Aladdin".

When not on tour, Domenech lives in New York City. He has been involved with several non-profit organizations, including anti-child trafficking organization Love146, and Lollipop Theater Network — which brings current movies and entertainment to hospitalized children nationwide.

On January 24, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Domenech, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Domenech performed the song "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" is a power ballad by American glam metal band Poison. It was released in October 1988 as the third single from Poison's second album "Open Up and Say... Ahh!". The band's signature song, it is also their only number-one hit in the United States, reaching the top spot on December 24, 1988, for three weeks.

In an interview with VH1's "Behind the Music", frontman Bret Michaels said the inspiration for the song came from a night when he was in a laundromat in Dallas waiting for his clothes to dry, and called his girlfriend on a pay phone. Michaels said he heard a male voice in the background and was devastated. He said he went into the laundromat and wrote "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" as a result.

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Dan Domenech is an American actor, best known for his understudy portrayal of Jason Dean in "Heathers: The Musical", Drew in the Broadway musical "Rock of Ages", and a recurring guest appearance on the television series "Glee" (FOX). Domenech has also appeared in the pre-Broadway runs of "Wonderland" and "Sister Act". National and international tours include "Rent" and "Rock of Ages". In 2012, he performed in the Disney Theatrical Productions workshop of "Aladdin".

When not on tour… Show more

Dan Domenech is an American actor, best known for his understudy portrayal of Jason Dean in "Heathers: The Musical", Drew in the Broadway musical "Rock of Ages", and a recurring guest appearance on the television series "Glee" (FOX). Domenech has also appeared in the pre-Broadway runs of "Wonderland" and "Sister Act". National and international tours include "Rent" and "Rock of Ages". In 2012, he performed in the Disney Theatrical Productions workshop of "Aladdin".

When not on tour, Domenech lives in New York City. He has been involved with several non-profit organizations, including anti-child trafficking organization Love146, and Lollipop Theater Network — which brings current movies and entertainment to hospitalized children nationwide.

On January 24, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Domenech, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Domenech performed the song "Hold Me in Your Heart" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Hold Me in Your Heart" is a song from the Broadway production of "Kinky Boots", performed by the character Lola. "Kinky Boots" is a musical with music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein.

Based on the 2005 British film "Kinky Boots", written by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth and mostly inspired by true events, the musical tells the story of Charlie Price. Having inherited a shoe factory from his father, Charlie forms an unlikely partnership with cabaret performer and drag queen Lola to produce a line of high-heeled boots and save the business. In the process, Charlie and Lola discover that they are not so different after all.

It made its Broadway debut at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre on April 4, 2013.

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Dan Domenech is an American actor, best known for his understudy portrayal of Jason Dean in "Heathers: The Musical", Drew in the Broadway musical "Rock of Ages", and a recurring guest appearance on the television series "Glee" (FOX). Domenech has also appeared in the pre-Broadway runs of "Wonderland" and "Sister Act". National and international tours include "Rent" and "Rock of Ages". In 2012, he performed in the Disney Theatrical Productions workshop of "Aladdin".

When not on tour… Show more

Dan Domenech is an American actor, best known for his understudy portrayal of Jason Dean in "Heathers: The Musical", Drew in the Broadway musical "Rock of Ages", and a recurring guest appearance on the television series "Glee" (FOX). Domenech has also appeared in the pre-Broadway runs of "Wonderland" and "Sister Act". National and international tours include "Rent" and "Rock of Ages". In 2012, he performed in the Disney Theatrical Productions workshop of "Aladdin".

When not on tour, Domenech lives in New York City. He has been involved with several non-profit organizations, including anti-child trafficking organization Love146, and Lollipop Theater Network — which brings current movies and entertainment to hospitalized children nationwide.

On January 24, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by Domenech, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

Domenech performed the song "I'd Rather Be Sailing" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "I'd Rather Be Sailing" is a song from the musical "A New Brain", with music and lyrics by William Finn, and book by Finn and James Lapine. Though many of Finn's previous musicals were to some extent autobiographical, "A New Brain" dealt directly with his own harrowing experience with an arteriovenous malformation and the healing power of art. The hero of the musical, Gordon Schwinn, worries that he may not live to complete his work. Finn wrote many of the songs soon after his release from the hospital. The musical premiered Off-Broadway in 1998.

"A New Brain" started as a series of songs that Finn wrote after he left the hospital, with a concert of those songs produced at The Public Theater in New York City.

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International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award… Show more

International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album.

On January 24, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by N'Kenge, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio. 

N'Kenge performed the song "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" (also known in short as just "And I Am Telling You") is a torch song from the Broadway musical "Dreamgirls", with lyrics by Tom Eyen and music by Henry Krieger.

In the context of the musical, "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" is sung by the character Effie White. The lyrics to "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" is often considered the show's signature tune.

In addition to its presence in the musical, "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" is also notable as the debut single of two women who portrayed Effie. Jennifer Holliday originated the role on Broadway in 1981 and won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for the role, as well as the Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for its re-release in 1982, for which it became a number-one R&B hit.

Jennifer Hudson portrayed Effie in the 2006 film adaptation of the musical, winning an Academy Award.

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International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award… Show more

International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album.

On January 24, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by N'Kenge, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio. 

N'Kenge performed the song "Dat's Love" (Habanera in Bizet's opera) during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Dat's Love" is from "Carmen Jones", a 1943 Broadway musical with music by Georges Bizet (orchestrated for Broadway by Robert Russell Bennett) and lyrics and book by Oscar Hammerstein II which was performed at The Broadway Theatre. Conceptually, it is Bizet's opera Carmen updated to a World War II-era African-American setting. Bizet's opera was, in turn, based on the 1846 novella by Prosper Mérimée. The Broadway musical was produced by Billy Rose, using an all Black cast, and directed by Hassard Short. Robert Shaw prepared the choral portions of the show.

The original Broadway production starred Muriel Smith (alternating with Muriel Rahn) in the title role. The original Broadway cast members were nearly all new to the stage.

The 1954 film was adapted by Hammerstein and Harry Kleiner. It was directed by Otto Preminger and starred Dorothy Dandridge and Harry Belafonte.

The musical has also been revived in London, running for a season in 1991.

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International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award… Show more

International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album.

On January 24, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by N'Kenge. 

N'Kenge performed the song "My Guy" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "My Guy" is a 1964 hit single by Mary Wells for Motown Records. Written and produced by Smokey Robinson of The Miracles, the song is a woman's rejection of a sexual advance and affirmation of her fidelity to her boyfriend, who is her ideal and with whom she is happy, despite his ordinary physique and looks.

"My Guy" became the biggest hit ever for Wells, Motown Records' first female star, and reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 pop singles chart on May 16, 1964. "My Guy" was also Wells' last hit single for Motown Records, except for duets she recorded with label mate Marvin Gaye. An option in her recording contract let Wells terminate the contract at her discretion after she reached her 21st birthday on May 13, 1964. Encouraged by her ex-husband, Wells broke her Motown Records contract and signed with 20th Century Fox Records in hopes of higher royalties and possible movie roles. However, Wells' career never again reached the heights it had at Motown Records, and she never again had a hit single as big as "My Guy".

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International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award… Show more

International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album.

On January 24, 2018, as part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, a concert was held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured a performance by N'Kenge, backed by pianist and musical director Chris Curcio.

N'Kenge performed the song "Zaz Zuh Zaz" during the concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Zaz Zuh Zaz" is a jazz scat standard written and composed by Harry White and Cab Calloway, taken and adapted from his 1931 hit "Minnie the Moocher". He recorded it with his Cotton Club big band jazz at RCA Victor in 1933.

Calloway was an American singer, songwriter, bandleader, conductor, and dancer. He was associated with the Cotton Club in Harlem, where he was a regular performer and became a popular vocalist of the swing era. His niche of mixing jazz and vaudeville won him acclaim during a career that spanned over 65 years.

Calloway was a master of energetic scat singing and led one of the most popular dance bands in the United States from the early 1930s to the late 1940s. His band included trumpeters Dizzy Gillespie, Jonah Jones, and Adolphus "Doc" Cheatham, saxophonists Ben Webster and Leon "Chu" Berry, guitarist Danny Barker, bassist Milt Hinton, and drummer Cozy Cole.

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"Wicked" is a musical, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Winnie Holzman. It is based on the 1995 Gregory Maguire novel "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West", based on the characters and setting of the 1900 novel, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum and the 1939 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer film "The Wizard of Oz". The musical is told from the perspective of the witches of the Land of Oz.

Produced by Universal Stage Productions, the original… Show more

"Wicked" is a musical, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Winnie Holzman. It is based on the 1995 Gregory Maguire novel "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West", based on the characters and setting of the 1900 novel, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum and the 1939 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer film "The Wizard of Oz". The musical is told from the perspective of the witches of the Land of Oz.

Produced by Universal Stage Productions, the original production of "Wicked" premiered on Broadway at the Gershwin Theatre in October 2003. Its original stars included Idina Menzel as Elphaba, Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda, and Joel Grey as the Wizard. The original Broadway production won three Tony Awards, while its original cast album received a Grammy Award. On October 28, 2019, with its 6,681st performance, it surpassed "Les Misérables" to become Broadway's fifth-longest running show.

"Wicked" has broken box-office records around the world. In the week ending January 2, 2011, the London, Broadway, and both North American touring productions simultaneously broke their respective records for the highest weekly gross. In the final week of 2013, the Broadway production broke this record again, earning $3.2 million. In 2016, "Wicked" surpassed $1 billion in total Broadway revenue, joining "The Phantom of the Opera" and "The Lion King" as the only Broadway shows to do so. In 2017, "Wicked" surpassed "The Phantom of the Opera" as Broadway's second-highest grossing musical.

As part of the "Broadway at The Pierre" cabaret series, in association with Broadway Sings for Pride, Shefik served as Videographer for the concert held at Two E Bar/Lounge — the sophisticated saloon located inside the New York City luxury hotel, The Pierre. The concert featured performances by "Wicked" cast members Hayley Podschun (Glinda - "Wicked" 2nd National Tour) and Jennifer DiNoia (Elphaba - "Wicked" on Broadway and 2nd National Tour).

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You may know Adam B. Shapiro as Der Rov from "Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish", as Gimpel from "Gimpel the Fool", as the cantor in "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" on Amazon Prime, or even from his virtual series "(Still A) Live From Shapiro Hall". He is an actor, who has also appeared in HBO's "The Normal Heart" (2014), NBC's "30 Rock", NBC's "The Mysteries of Laura", and "Master of None" (2015). Shapiro has done theatre, film, and television — in both English and Yiddish. He is a lot of laughs… Show more

You may know Adam B. Shapiro as Der Rov from "Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish", as Gimpel from "Gimpel the Fool", as the cantor in "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" on Amazon Prime, or even from his virtual series "(Still A) Live From Shapiro Hall". He is an actor, who has also appeared in HBO's "The Normal Heart" (2014), NBC's "30 Rock", NBC's "The Mysteries of Laura", and "Master of None" (2015). Shapiro has done theatre, film, and television — in both English and Yiddish. He is a lot of laughs, wrapped around a big cuddly heart.

In addition to acting, Shapiro is also an award-winning singer and cabaret performer. He won the 2013 MAC Award for Musical Comedy performer of the year for his show, "Guide to the Perfect Breakup". In 2020, Shapiro directed the star-studded "Folksbiene Chanukah Spectacular" at National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene.

On September 10, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "The Original LGBT Expo", at Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. "The Original LGBT Expo" featured over 250 exhibitors, non-stop live entertainment on the stage, and hours of interactive seminars. Musical performances by Broadway stars were highlights of the program. Sponsors included United Airlines, Lufthansa, Foresters Financial, and New York Liberty. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Shapiro performed the song "Life of the Party" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Life of the Party" is a song originally performed by Tony Award winner Idina Menzel, from the musical "The Wild Party".

Shapiro also performed the song "Song for the Lonely". Originally titled "(This is) A Song for the Lonely"), it is a song by Cher from her 24th studio album, "Living Proof" (2001).

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Adrienne Fishe is an international entertainer with over 15 years of seasoned performances to her credit. She is a singer-songwriter and lead vocalist for jazz, pop, rock, R&B, gospel, and big band.

Born and raised in New York City, Fishe began singing in front of audiences when she was 7 years old. By the time she was 11 years old, Fishe knew she wanted to be a performer and sing for large audiences worldwide. Some early experiences during her journey include being a 3-time winner in Ed… Show more

Adrienne Fishe is an international entertainer with over 15 years of seasoned performances to her credit. She is a singer-songwriter and lead vocalist for jazz, pop, rock, R&B, gospel, and big band.

Born and raised in New York City, Fishe began singing in front of audiences when she was 7 years old. By the time she was 11 years old, Fishe knew she wanted to be a performer and sing for large audiences worldwide. Some early experiences during her journey include being a 3-time winner in Ed McMahon's "Star Search".

In 2000, Fishe joined the cruise line entertainment industry, performing for Royal Caribbean Group on their Voyager class ship, as the Featured Guest Entertainer and has since become one of the industry's World Class Headline Entertainers. Additionally, Fishe's theatre credits include the Broadway production of "Rent" in the lead role of Joanne Jefferson, "West Side Story" in the role of Maria, "Sing: The Power of the Human Voice" in the Ensemble, "YES! The Musical" in the role of Rosa Parks, "AIDA" in the role of Nahebka, and "Beauty and the Beast" in the role of Babette.

On September 10, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "The Original LGBT Expo", at Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. Musical performances by Broadway stars were highlights of the program. Sponsors included United Airlines, Lufthansa, Foresters Financial, and New York Liberty. Broadway Sings for Pride is a non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Fishe performed the song "A Deeper Love" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "A Deeper Love" is a 1991 single written and performed by Clivillés & Cole.

In 1994, Aretha Franklin covered "A Deeper Love". This version was also produced by Clivillés & Cole and was later released as the lead single of her "Greatest Hits (1980-1994)" collection.

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Phindile Mkhize is best-known for playing the role of Rafiki in the National Tour of "The Lion King", for many years. "The Lion King" is a 1994 American animated musical drama film, produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation, and released by Walt Disney Pictures.

Its original songs were written by composer Elton John and lyricist Tim Rice, with a score by Hans Zimmer. The film features an ensemble voice cast that includes Matthew Broderick, James Earl Jones, Jeremy Irons, Jonathan Taylor… Show more

Phindile Mkhize is best-known for playing the role of Rafiki in the National Tour of "The Lion King", for many years. "The Lion King" is a 1994 American animated musical drama film, produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation, and released by Walt Disney Pictures.

Its original songs were written by composer Elton John and lyricist Tim Rice, with a score by Hans Zimmer. The film features an ensemble voice cast that includes Matthew Broderick, James Earl Jones, Jeremy Irons, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Moira Kelly, Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella, Rowan Atkinson, Robert Guillaume, Madge Sinclair (in her last film role), Whoopi Goldberg, Cheech Marin, and Jim Cummings.

The film has led to many derived works, such as a Broadway adaptation in 1997; two direct-to-video follow-ups — the sequel, "The Lion King II: Simba's Pride" (1998), and the prequel/parallel, "The Lion King 1½" (2004); two television series, "Timon and Pumbaa" and "The Lion Guard"; a 3D re-release in 2011; and a photorealistic remake in 2019.

On September 10, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "The Original LGBT Expo", at Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. "The Original LGBT Expo" featured over 250 exhibitors, non-stop live entertainment on the stage, and hours of interactive seminars. Musical performances by Broadway stars were highlights of the program. Sponsors included United Airlines, Lufthansa, Foresters Financial, and New York Liberty. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Mkhize performed the song "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" is a 1967 single released by Aretha Franklin on Atlantic Records.

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Phindile Mkhize is best-known for playing the role of Rafiki in the National Tour of "The Lion King", for many years. "The Lion King" is a 1994 American animated musical drama film, produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation, and released by Walt Disney Pictures.

Its original songs were written by composer Elton John and lyricist Tim Rice, with a score by Hans Zimmer. The film features an ensemble voice cast that includes Matthew Broderick, James Earl Jones, Jeremy Irons, Jonathan Taylor… Show more

Phindile Mkhize is best-known for playing the role of Rafiki in the National Tour of "The Lion King", for many years. "The Lion King" is a 1994 American animated musical drama film, produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation, and released by Walt Disney Pictures.

Its original songs were written by composer Elton John and lyricist Tim Rice, with a score by Hans Zimmer. The film features an ensemble voice cast that includes Matthew Broderick, James Earl Jones, Jeremy Irons, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Moira Kelly, Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella, Rowan Atkinson, Robert Guillaume, Madge Sinclair, Whoopi Goldberg, Cheech Marin, and Jim Cummings.

In 2016, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".

On September 10, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "The Original LGBT Expo", at Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. "The Original LGBT Expo" featured over 250 exhibitors, non-stop live entertainment on the stage, and hours of interactive seminars. Musical performances by Broadway stars were highlights of the program. Sponsors included United Airlines, Lufthansa, Foresters Financial, and New York Liberty. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Mkhize performed the song "I'm Every Woman" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "I'm Every Woman" is the debut solo single by Chaka Khan from her debut solo studio album "Chaka" (1978).

Whitney Houston later recorded "I'm Every Woman" for "The Bodyguard" soundtrack. Houston's version of "I'm Every Woman" peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 in just its 7th and 8th week of release, remaining in the top 40 for 19 weeks.

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Renée Marino made her feature film debut as Mary Delgado (Frankie Valli's wife) in the film "Jersey Boys", directed by Clint Eastwood. Marino was playing the role on Broadway when Eastwood came to see it, and the rest is history!

"Jersey Boys" is a 2014 musical drama film, based on the 2004 Tony Award winning jukebox musical of the same name. The film tells the story of the musical group The Four Seasons. Original band members Frankie Valli and Bob Gaudio serve as executive… Show more

Renée Marino made her feature film debut as Mary Delgado (Frankie Valli's wife) in the film "Jersey Boys", directed by Clint Eastwood. Marino was playing the role on Broadway when Eastwood came to see it, and the rest is history!

"Jersey Boys" is a 2014 musical drama film, based on the 2004 Tony Award winning jukebox musical of the same name. The film tells the story of the musical group The Four Seasons. Original band members Frankie Valli and Bob Gaudio serve as executive producers.

"Jersey Boys" was released in the United States on June 20, 2014. It received mixed reviews from critics, who praised the musical numbers, and grossed $67 million worldwide.

Marino's additional Broadway credits include "West Side Story", "Chaplin", and "Wonderland". Audiences across the United States have also seen her in the 25th anniversary tour of "Cats" and the world premiere of Disney's "High School Musical".

On September 10, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "The Original LGBT Expo", at Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. Sponsors included United Airlines, Lufthansa, Foresters Financial, and New York Liberty. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Marino performed the songs "Yes" and "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Yes" is featured on the original soundtrack to the 1987 film "Dirty Dancing", performed by Grammy Award winner Merry Clayton. The album went on to sell 32 million copies worldwide and is one of the best-selling albums of all time.

"Will You Love Me Tomorrow" is a song with words written by Gerry Goffin and music composed by Carole King. It was originally recorded in 1960 by The Shirelles, who took their single to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

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'The Wiz: The Super Soul Musical "Wonderful Wizard of Oz"' is a musical with music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls (and others) and book by William F. Brown. It is a retelling of L. Frank Baum's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" in the context of contemporary African-American culture.

The 1975 Broadway production won 7 Tony Awards. It was an early example of Broadway's mainstream acceptance of works with an all Black cast.

A film adaptation was released in 1978, with Ted Ross and… Show more

'The Wiz: The Super Soul Musical "Wonderful Wizard of Oz"' is a musical with music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls (and others) and book by William F. Brown. It is a retelling of L. Frank Baum's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" in the context of contemporary African-American culture.

The 1975 Broadway production won 7 Tony Awards. It was an early example of Broadway's mainstream acceptance of works with an all Black cast.

A film adaptation was released in 1978, with Ted Ross and Mabel King reprising their roles, alongside Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell, Theresa Merritt, Thelma Carpenter, Lena Horne, and Richard Pryor. A live television production of the stage version, "The Wiz Live!", was broadcast on NBC on December 3, 2015.

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

The event featured a cast reunion of "The Wiz", comprising the original Broadway cast and creative team, as well as members of the National Tour, Broadway Revival, 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert, and NBC's live television production. They performed the song "A Brand New Day", where Shefik served as Videographer, as well as a featured Speaker.

The reunion included Tony Award winner and choreographer George Faison (Original Broadway), Gayle Turner (Original Broadway), choreographer Lacy Darryl Phillips (National Tour), and Charles Valentino (Broadway Revival).

"A Brand New Day" is a song from the original Broadway production, written by Luther Vandross. It was later featured in the 1978 film version, sung by Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell, and Ted Ross.

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Anthony Bowens is a professional wrestler signed to All Elite Wrestling. He started training in 2012 and made his professional wrestling debut in 2013. In November 2016, he suffered a concussion during a match on the television show "WWE NXT". In November 2020, Tony Khan (President, All Elite Wrestling) announced that Bowens, alongside Max Caster, had been signed to a five-year contract with the promotion. The announcement also stated that Bowens and Caster would compete as a team named The… Show more

Anthony Bowens is a professional wrestler signed to All Elite Wrestling. He started training in 2012 and made his professional wrestling debut in 2013. In November 2016, he suffered a concussion during a match on the television show "WWE NXT". In November 2020, Tony Khan (President, All Elite Wrestling) announced that Bowens, alongside Max Caster, had been signed to a five-year contract with the promotion. The announcement also stated that Bowens and Caster would compete as a team named The Acclaimed.

All Elite Wrestling, commonly shortened to AEW, is a professional wrestling promotion based in Jacksonville, Florida. It is considered the second largest wrestling promotion in the United States, behind WWE.

Bowens' is in a relationship with Michael Pavano, who is a nationally certified personal trainer, actor, and social media influencer.

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Bowens and Pavano addressed the audience with an inspirational speech during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer, as well as a featured Speaker. In 2017, with the aid of Outsports and The Huffington Post, Bowens and Pavano shared their personal journey of acceptance — a decision that has been met with positive attention. It all started on September 19, 2016, with an initial video titled "Try Not to Laugh Challenge", which was released on their YouTube channel, and viewed by around a quarter of a million people worldwide.

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B33 ANGEL (Bridgette Angelique) thrives on being self-sufficient in many aspects. From extensive training and participation in music education, musical theater, dancing, writing, and acting throughout her childhood — to audio recording technology, promotion, marketing, directing in her later years — she applied all the knowledge and experience to the development of her artistic career and continues to grow. When describing her voice, most people can't seem to pinpoint an exact singer she… Show more

B33 ANGEL (Bridgette Angelique) thrives on being self-sufficient in many aspects. From extensive training and participation in music education, musical theater, dancing, writing, and acting throughout her childhood — to audio recording technology, promotion, marketing, directing in her later years — she applied all the knowledge and experience to the development of her artistic career and continues to grow. When describing her voice, most people can't seem to pinpoint an exact singer she replicates. However, most commonly happen to say "she has the voice of an angel".

On June 17, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of the 2nd annual New York Mets "Pride Night at Citi Field", in Flushing, New York, when the New York Mets played against the Washington Nationals. In association with LGBT Network, "Pride Night at Citi Field" is an annual celebration of the New Yorkers and Mets fans from around the world, who are part of the LGBTQ+ community. All night long, in-game programming was focused on celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

B33 ANGEL performed the songs "Conga!" and "Turn the Beat Around" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer.

"Conga!" is the first hit single released by Miami Sound Machine, led by Gloria Estefan, on their second English-language album, "Primitive Love".

"Turn the Beat Around" is a disco song, performed by Vicki Sue Robinson in 1976, originally appearing on her debut album. The song earned Robinson a Grammy Award nomination.

In 1994, the song was recorded by Estefan for the soundtrack to the film "The Specialist". Released as a single, it became a hit reaching #13 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Videographer: Shefik Show less

B33 ANGEL (Bridgette Angelique) thrives on being self-sufficient in many aspects. From extensive training and participation in music education, musical theater, dancing, writing, and acting throughout her childhood — to audio recording technology, promotion, marketing, directing in her later years — she applied all the knowledge and experience to the development of her artistic career and continues to grow. When describing her voice, most people can't seem to pinpoint an exact singer she… Show more

B33 ANGEL (Bridgette Angelique) thrives on being self-sufficient in many aspects. From extensive training and participation in music education, musical theater, dancing, writing, and acting throughout her childhood — to audio recording technology, promotion, marketing, directing in her later years — she applied all the knowledge and experience to the development of her artistic career and continues to grow. When describing her voice, most people can't seem to pinpoint an exact singer she replicates. However, most commonly happen to say "she has the voice of an angel".

On June 24, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "NYC Pride: Youth Pride", at 14th Street Park, in New York City. Produced in partnership with founding sponsor Target, the annual "NYC Pride: Youth Pride" is a socially engaging, safe space where teens can celebrate New York Pride with their friends. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

B33 ANGEL performed the songs "Conga!" and "Turn the Beat Around" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer.

"Conga!" is the first hit single released by Miami Sound Machine, led by Gloria Estefan, on their second English-language album, "Primitive Love".

"Turn the Beat Around" is a disco song written by Gerald Jackson and Peter Jackson, and performed by Vicki Sue Robinson in 1976, originally appearing on her album, "Never Gonna Let You Go". Released as a single, the song went to #10 on the Billboard pop charts.

In 1994, the song was recorded by Estefan for the soundtrack to the film "The Specialist". It is also featured on Estefan's fourth solo album, "Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me". It became a hit reaching #13 on the Billboard Hot 100.

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Brad Oscar is an American musical theatre actor known for his Broadway performances in musicals, such as "The Producers", "Jekyll & Hyde", and "Mrs. Doubtfire". He earned two Tony Award nominations — one for "The Producers" as Franz Liebkind, and another for "Something Rotten!" as Nostradamus.

"The Producers" is a musical with music and lyrics by Mel Brooks, and a book by Brooks and Thomas Meehan. It is adapted from Brooks's 1967 film of the same name.

The story concerns two… Show more

Brad Oscar is an American musical theatre actor known for his Broadway performances in musicals, such as "The Producers", "Jekyll & Hyde", and "Mrs. Doubtfire". He earned two Tony Award nominations — one for "The Producers" as Franz Liebkind, and another for "Something Rotten!" as Nostradamus.

"The Producers" is a musical with music and lyrics by Mel Brooks, and a book by Brooks and Thomas Meehan. It is adapted from Brooks's 1967 film of the same name.

The story concerns two theatrical producers, who scheme to get rich by fraudulently overselling interests in a Broadway flop. Complications arise when the show unexpectedly turns out to be successful. The humor of the show draws on ridiculous accents, caricatures of gay people and Nazis, and many show business in-jokes.

After 33 previews, the original Broadway production opened at the St. James Theatre on April 19, 2001, starring Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick, and ran for 2,502 performances, winning a record-breaking 12 Tony Awards. It spawned a successful West End production running for just over two years, national tours in the United States and United Kingdom, many productions worldwide, and a 2005 film version.

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Oscar performed the song "The Star of the Show" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. The lyrics of the song reference the musical "Annie".

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Gayle Turner was nominated for the Colorado Theatre Guild's Henry Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical. The role was Geneva Lee Brown in "1940's Radio Hour". Turner has worked with musical director David Nehls and director Bill Castellino ("Smokey Joe's Cafe", "Abyssinia", "Little Shop of Horrors").

International audiences will remember her performances in the production of "Black Nativity" in Rome, Italy (co-directed by Morgan Freeman). She is proud to have a recurring… Show more

Gayle Turner was nominated for the Colorado Theatre Guild's Henry Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical. The role was Geneva Lee Brown in "1940's Radio Hour". Turner has worked with musical director David Nehls and director Bill Castellino ("Smokey Joe's Cafe", "Abyssinia", "Little Shop of Horrors").

International audiences will remember her performances in the production of "Black Nativity" in Rome, Italy (co-directed by Morgan Freeman). She is proud to have a recurring role on NBC's "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit".

'The Wiz: The Super Soul Musical "Wonderful Wizard of Oz"' is a musical. It is a retelling of L. Frank Baum's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" in the context of contemporary African-American culture.

The 1975 Broadway production won 7 Tony Awards. Turner served as the understudy to Stephanie Mills in the role of Dorothy for three years.

A film adaptation was released in 1978, with Ted Ross and Mabel King reprising their roles, alongside Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell, Theresa Merritt, Thelma Carpenter, Lena Horne, and Richard Pryor.

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City. Broadway Sings for Pride is a non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

The event featured a reunion of "The Wiz", comprising the original Broadway cast and creative team, as well as members of the National Tour, Broadway Revival, 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert, and the live television production. Turner performed "Believe in Yourself", where Shefik served as Videographer, as well as a featured Speaker.

"Believe in Yourself", is from the Broadway musical "The Wiz". It was later featured in the film version, performed by Ross, along with "Believe in Yourself (Reprise)" performed by Horne.

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Gayle Turner was nominated for the Colorado Theatre Guild's Henry Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical. The role was Geneva Lee Brown in "1940's Radio Hour". Turner has worked with musical director David Nehls and director Bill Castellino ("Smokey Joe's Cafe", "Abyssinia", "Little Shop of Horrors").

International audiences will remember her performances in the production of "Black Nativity" in Rome, Italy (co-directed by Morgan Freeman). She is proud to have a recurring… Show more

Gayle Turner was nominated for the Colorado Theatre Guild's Henry Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical. The role was Geneva Lee Brown in "1940's Radio Hour". Turner has worked with musical director David Nehls and director Bill Castellino ("Smokey Joe's Cafe", "Abyssinia", "Little Shop of Horrors").

International audiences will remember her performances in the production of "Black Nativity" in Rome, Italy (co-directed by Morgan Freeman). She is proud to have a recurring role on NBC's "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit".

'The Wiz: The Super Soul Musical "Wonderful Wizard of Oz"' is a musical. It is a retelling of L. Frank Baum's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" in the context of contemporary African-American culture.

The 1975 Broadway production won 7 Tony Awards. Turner served as the understudy to Stephanie Mills in the role of Dorothy for three years.

A film adaptation was released in 1978, with Ted Ross and Mabel King reprising their roles, alongside Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell, Theresa Merritt, Thelma Carpenter, Lena Horne, and Richard Pryor.

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City. Broadway Sings for Pride is a non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

The event featured a reunion of "The Wiz", comprising the original Broadway cast and creative team, as well as members of the National Tour, Broadway Revival, 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert, and the live television production. Turner performed "Believe in Yourself", where Shefik served as Videographer, as well as a featured Speaker.

"Believe in Yourself", is from the Broadway musical "The Wiz". It was later featured in the film version, performed by Ross, along with "Believe in Yourself (Reprise)" performed by Horne.

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Jacqueline René is known for "Gotham" (2014), "Law & Order: Organized Crime" (2021), and "BET Her Presents: The Waiting Room" (2019). René has also appeared in "The Lion King" on Broadway.

"The Lion King" is a musical play based on the 1994 Walt Disney Animation Studios animated feature film of the same name with music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, and book by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi, along with additional music and lyrics by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor, and… Show more

Jacqueline René is known for "Gotham" (2014), "Law & Order: Organized Crime" (2021), and "BET Her Presents: The Waiting Room" (2019). René has also appeared in "The Lion King" on Broadway.

"The Lion King" is a musical play based on the 1994 Walt Disney Animation Studios animated feature film of the same name with music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, and book by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi, along with additional music and lyrics by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor, and Hans Zimmer. Directed by Taymor, the musical features actors in animal costumes as well as giant, hollow puppets. The show is produced by Disney Theatrical Productions.

On June 20, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "NYC Pride: Family Movie Night", at Pier 45 (Hudson River Park), in New York City. Prior to the very special screening of the film "The Lion King" at dusk, family friendly selections related to New York and "The Lion King" were performed. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

René performed the song "Empire State of Mind (Part II) Broken Down" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Empire State of Mind" is a song performed by American rapper Jay-Z featuring vocals by American singer Alicia Keys, from Jay-Z's 11th studio album, "The Blueprint 3" (2009).

Keys recorded a sequel entitled "Empire State of Mind (Part II) Broken Down", which is featured on her 4th studio album "The Element of Freedom" (2009). Her version was positively received by critics. Keys said that she chose to record her own version of "Empire State of Mind", because she wanted to express her own personal feelings about New York.

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Jacqueline René is known for "Gotham" (2014), "Law & Order: Organized Crime" (2021), and "BET Her Presents: The Waiting Room" (2019). René has also appeared in "The Lion King" on Broadway.

"The Lion King" is a musical play based on the 1994 Walt Disney Animation Studios animated feature film of the same name with music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, and book by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi, along with additional music and lyrics by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor, and… Show more

Jacqueline René is known for "Gotham" (2014), "Law & Order: Organized Crime" (2021), and "BET Her Presents: The Waiting Room" (2019). René has also appeared in "The Lion King" on Broadway.

"The Lion King" is a musical play based on the 1994 Walt Disney Animation Studios animated feature film of the same name with music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, and book by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi, along with additional music and lyrics by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor, and Hans Zimmer. Directed by Taymor, the musical features actors in animal costumes as well as giant, hollow puppets. The show is produced by Disney Theatrical Productions.

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

René performed the song "Empire State of Mind (Part II) Broken Down" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Empire State of Mind" is a song performed by American rapper Jay-Z featuring vocals by American singer Alicia Keys, from Jay-Z's 11th studio album, "The Blueprint 3" (2009).

Keys recorded a sequel entitled "Empire State of Mind (Part II) Broken Down", which is featured on her 4th studio album "The Element of Freedom" (2009). Her version was positively received by critics. Keys said that she chose to record her own version of "Empire State of Mind", because she wanted to express her own personal feelings about New York.

Videographer: Shefik Show less

JR Bruno is a Broadway and television actor, comedian, and musical theater director/choreographer. He has appeared in television series, such as "Saturday Night Live" (NBC), "The Deuce" (HBO), "City on the Hill" (Showtime), and "The Gilded Age" (HBO). You have also seen him in the commercial "Master Moves Mickey" for Fisher-Price and Disney. On Broadway, Bruno has played roles in "West Side Story" and "The Book of Mormon".

On June 24, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed… Show more

JR Bruno is a Broadway and television actor, comedian, and musical theater director/choreographer. He has appeared in television series, such as "Saturday Night Live" (NBC), "The Deuce" (HBO), "City on the Hill" (Showtime), and "The Gilded Age" (HBO). You have also seen him in the commercial "Master Moves Mickey" for Fisher-Price and Disney. On Broadway, Bruno has played roles in "West Side Story" and "The Book of Mormon".

On June 24, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "NYC Pride: Youth Pride", at 14th Street Park, in New York City. Produced in partnership with founding sponsor Target, the annual "NYC Pride: Youth Pride" is a socially engaging, safe space where teens can celebrate New York Pride with their friends. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Bruno performed the song "Somebody to Love" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Somebody to Love" is a song by the rock band Queen, written by the lead singer/pianist Freddie Mercury. It debuted on the band's 1976 album "A Day at the Races" and also appears on their 1981 compilation album "Greatest Hits".

The song has similarities to Queen's earlier hit "Bohemian Rhapsody" with its complex harmonies and guitar solos. However, instead of mimicking an English choir, the band turned to a gospel choir. It reached No. 2 in the United Kingdom.

Written by Mercury at the piano, "Somebody to Love" is a soul-searching piece that questions God's role in a life without love. Through voice layering techniques, Queen was able to create the soulful sound of a 100-voice choir from three singers: Mercury, Brian May, and Roger Taylor. John Deacon did not sing backing vocals on the recorded album.

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Kevin Smith Kirkwood appeared on Broadway, in the Tony Award winning musical "Kinky Boots", and as a performer in the 2019 World Pride Parade on the Proctor & Gamble float. Kirkwood also starred in "Classic Whitey: Alive!", a greatest hits show that included songs performed by Whitney Houston.

"Kinky Boots" is a musical with music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein.

"Kinky Boots" earned a season-high 13 nominations and 6 Tony Award wins, including Best… Show more

Kevin Smith Kirkwood appeared on Broadway, in the Tony Award winning musical "Kinky Boots", and as a performer in the 2019 World Pride Parade on the Proctor & Gamble float. Kirkwood also starred in "Classic Whitey: Alive!", a greatest hits show that included songs performed by Whitney Houston.

"Kinky Boots" is a musical with music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein.

"Kinky Boots" earned a season-high 13 nominations and 6 Tony Award wins, including Best Musical, Best Actor for Billy Porter, and Best Score for Lauper in her first outing as a Broadway songwriter.

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Kirkwood performed the song "Greatest Love of All" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer.

"The Greatest Love of All" is a song written by Michael Masser, who composed the music, and Linda Creed, who wrote the lyrics. It was originally recorded in 1977 by George Benson, who made the song a substantial hit, peaking at number two on the United States Hot Soul Singles chart that year, the first R&B chart top-ten hit for Arista Records. The song was written and recorded to be the main theme of the 1977 film "The Greatest", a biopic of the boxer Muhammad Ali.

Eight years after Benson's original recording, the song became even more well known for a version by Houston, whose 1985 cover (with the slightly amended title "Greatest Love of All") eventually topped the charts, peaking at number one in the United States.

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On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and… Show more

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Various cast members of Disney's "The Lion King" on Broadway (Lawrence Alexander, Jacqueline René, Eden Duncan-Smith, Nia Ashleigh, Khail Toi Bryant) performed the song "He Lives in You" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. Led by Phindile Mkhize (Disney's "The Lion King" National Tour and Brazil), the performance was dedicated to the memory Douglas Bennington (1935-2016), the father of Broadway Sings for Pride's Founder Neal Bennington.

"He Lives in You" is a song written and performed by Lebo M. and his South African Choir for "Rhythm of the Pride Lands", an album inspired by the film "The Lion King". It is performed twice in the musical adaptation of the film, and a shorter version of the song was used for the opening of "The Lion King II: Simba's Pride". The song was co-written by Mark Mancina and Jay Rifkin.

The song initially appears in Act I as "They Live in You", which is sung by Mufasa to his young son Simba. Mufasa explains that the Great Kings of the Past are watching over them from the stars above. If Simba ever feels alone, he can trust that the Great Kings are there, as Mufasa will also be one day.

Later, in Act II, Rafiki finds a lonely and forlorn Simba in the jungle and explains to the lion that his father Mufasa lives on through the song "He Lives in You".

Credits

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Lindsay Cherin is an actress and singer, who has performed in "Die Fledermuas" (Martina Arroyo Foundation), "The Magic Flute" (Ithaca Opera), "Cendrillion" (Ithaca Opera), "Aida" (New Jersey Performing Arts Center), Les Misérables (New Jersey Performing Arts Center), "Rent" (Axelrod Performing Arts Center), "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" (Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts), and "Unlocking Your Potential" (Documentary).

On June 17, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a… Show more

Lindsay Cherin is an actress and singer, who has performed in "Die Fledermuas" (Martina Arroyo Foundation), "The Magic Flute" (Ithaca Opera), "Cendrillion" (Ithaca Opera), "Aida" (New Jersey Performing Arts Center), Les Misérables (New Jersey Performing Arts Center), "Rent" (Axelrod Performing Arts Center), "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" (Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts), and "Unlocking Your Potential" (Documentary).

On June 17, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of the 2nd annual New York Mets "Pride Night at Citi Field", when the New York Mets played against the Washington Nationals. In association with LGBT Network, "Pride Night at Citi Field" is an annual celebration of the New Yorkers and Mets fans from around the world, who are part of the LGBTQ+ community. All night long, in-game programming was focused on celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Cherin performed the songs "They Just Keep Moving the Line", "Only in New York", and "Don't Rain on My Parade" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer.

"They Just Keep Moving the Line" is a song from "Bombshell", a musical based on the original fictitious musical from the first season of the NBC television series "Smash". "Bombshell" is the life story of Marilyn Monroe.

"Only in New York" is a song from "Thoroughly Modern Millie", a 1967 musical-romantic comedy film starring Julie Andrews. The screenplay follows a naïve young woman who finds herself in a series of madcap adventures.

"Don't Rain on My Parade" is a popular song from the 1964 musical "Funny Girl". It was also featured in the 1968 movie version of the musical. Both the movie and stage versions feature Barbra Streisand performing the song.

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Matt Leisy appeared in the Season 5 finale of NBC's "The Blacklist", and played lead roles in "Nothing Without You" and "Eva". Other film and television credits include: "Tell", "Someone I Used to Know", "This Is the Girl", "Shooting Script", "Man From the Dying Planet", "The Good Shepard", and "Live From Lincoln Center" on PBS.

Leisy's theatre credits include the Lucille Lortel award-winning "Sweeney Todd" at the Barrow Street Theatre, and the Tony Award winning Broadway First National… Show more

Matt Leisy appeared in the Season 5 finale of NBC's "The Blacklist", and played lead roles in "Nothing Without You" and "Eva". Other film and television credits include: "Tell", "Someone I Used to Know", "This Is the Girl", "Shooting Script", "Man From the Dying Planet", "The Good Shepard", and "Live From Lincoln Center" on PBS.

Leisy's theatre credits include the Lucille Lortel award-winning "Sweeney Todd" at the Barrow Street Theatre, and the Tony Award winning Broadway First National Tour of "A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder", where he played the lead role of Monty Navarro at such theaters as John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles, and Princess of Wales Theatre in Toronto. Leisy played over 1,000 performances as The Boy in the Off-Broadway production of "The Fantasticks" and appeared at Lincoln Center in "Carousel" with the New York Philharmonic.

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Leisy performed the songs "The Man I Love" and "My Man" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer.

"The Man I Love" is a popular standard in AABA form, with music by George Gershwin and lyrics by his brother Ira Gershwin.

"Mon Homme" (also known by its English translation, "My Man"), is a popular song first published in 1920. Barbra Streisand, Billie Holiday, and many others have recorded renditions of the song.

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Michael Muenchow was cast on International Television's talent-based reality show "La Academia USA", based in Mexico City (similar to the popular United States shows "American Idol" and "Big Brother"). Muenchow was among the top 12 contestants chosen out of over 10,000 people who auditioned. One year prior, he was a part of "Nuevas Voces de America", another reality-based talent show in Miami, Florida. World-famous music mogul Emilio Estefan hand picked 20 talented vocal performers from… Show more

Michael Muenchow was cast on International Television's talent-based reality show "La Academia USA", based in Mexico City (similar to the popular United States shows "American Idol" and "Big Brother"). Muenchow was among the top 12 contestants chosen out of over 10,000 people who auditioned. One year prior, he was a part of "Nuevas Voces de America", another reality-based talent show in Miami, Florida. World-famous music mogul Emilio Estefan hand picked 20 talented vocal performers from throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. Out of about 30,000 people who auditioned, Muenchow was selected.

Aside from reality shows, Michael has held lead roles in many musicals. He has been in such musicals as "The Sound of Music" (Gateway Playhouse), "Bye Bye Birdie", "Cinderella" (Rossini's Opera and Rogers & Hammerstein's), "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat", and more. He has also been in productions of "Les Misérables", "The Exonerated", "Amadeus", "The Boys in the Band", and other theater productions.

On June 20, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "NYC Pride: Family Movie Night", at Pier 45 (Hudson River Park), in New York City. Prior to the very special screening of the film "The Lion King" at dusk, family friendly selections related to New York and "The Lion King" were performed. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Muenchow performed the song "Cheap Thrills" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Cheap Thrills" is a song by Sia from her studio album "This Is Acting". It was originally released in 2015, and an official remix version of "Cheap Thrills" featuring Sean Paul was made available as the album's second single. This version was nominated for the Grammy Award.

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Nia Ashleigh is a 3-time YoungArts Awards winner. She has performed for Clive Davis, Dionne Warwick, Andra Day, and taken bows on the stages of New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Ashleigh has also appeared in "The Lion King" on Broadway.

Michael Muenchow has held lead roles in many musicals. He has been in such musicals as "The Sound of Music" (Gateway Playhouse), "Bye Bye Birdie", "Cinderella" (Rossini's Opera and Rogers &… Show more

Nia Ashleigh is a 3-time YoungArts Awards winner. She has performed for Clive Davis, Dionne Warwick, Andra Day, and taken bows on the stages of New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Ashleigh has also appeared in "The Lion King" on Broadway.

Michael Muenchow has held lead roles in many musicals. He has been in such musicals as "The Sound of Music" (Gateway Playhouse), "Bye Bye Birdie", "Cinderella" (Rossini's Opera and Rogers & Hammerstein's), "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat", and more. He has also been in productions of "Les Misérables", "The Exonerated", "Amadeus", "The Boys in the Band", and other theater productions.

"The Lion King" is a musical play based on the 1994 Walt Disney Animation Studios animated feature film of the same name with music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, and book by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi, along with additional music and lyrics by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor, and Hans Zimmer. Directed by Taymor, the musical features actors in animal costumes as well as giant puppets.

On June 20, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "NYC Pride: Family Movie Night", at Pier 45 (Hudson River Park), in New York City. Prior to the very special screening of the film "The Lion King" at dusk, family friendly selections related to New York and "The Lion King" were performed. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Ashleigh and Muenchow performed the song "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" is a song from the animated film "The Lion King", composed by John with lyrics by Rice. At the 67th Academy Awards, it won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.

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Nkrumah Gatling is an actor, who played the roles of Marine and John in "Miss Saigon" on Broadway, as well as the role of Tribe in "Hair" on Broadway (July 5, 2011 - September 10, 2011).

Onyie Nwachukwu is a singer, songwriter, vocal arranger, voice teacher and theatre performer out of New York City. Her previous work includes the national tours of "Rent", and "Cirque Dreams Illumination".

On June 25, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "NYC… Show more

Nkrumah Gatling is an actor, who played the roles of Marine and John in "Miss Saigon" on Broadway, as well as the role of Tribe in "Hair" on Broadway (July 5, 2011 - September 10, 2011).

Onyie Nwachukwu is a singer, songwriter, vocal arranger, voice teacher and theatre performer out of New York City. Her previous work includes the national tours of "Rent", and "Cirque Dreams Illumination".

On June 25, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "NYC Pride: Pride Fest", at Hudson Street and 13th Street, in New York City. The event was presented T-Mobile. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Gatling and Nwachukwu performed the song "Wheels of a Dream" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Wheels of a Dream" is a song from "Ragtime", which is a musical with music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and a book by Terrence McNally. It is based on the 1975 novel of the same name by E.L. Doctorow.

Set in the early 20th century, "Ragtime" tells the story of three groups in the United States: African Americans, represented by Coalhouse Walker Jr., a Harlem musician; upper-class suburbanites, represented by Mother, the matriarch of a white upper-class family in New Rochelle, New York; and Eastern European immigrants, represented by Tateh, a Jewish immigrant from Latvia. The show also incorporates historical figures such as Harry Houdini, Evelyn Nesbit, Booker T. Washington, J. P. Morgan, Henry Ford, Stanford White, Harry Kendall Thaw, Admiral Peary, Matthew Henson, and Emma Goldman.

The musical had its world premiere in Toronto, on December 8, 1996, produced by Canadian impresario Garth Drabinsky.

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Rebecca Larkin is an actress and director, known for the short films "The Rub" (2017), "The Mariner's Revenge" (2014), and "Understanding Conflict" (2013), as well as her appearances on Broadway. Larkin made her Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning Lincoln Center Revival of "South Pacific", where she played the role of Liat.

"South Pacific" is a musical composed by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and book by Hammerstein and Joshua Logan. The work premiered in… Show more

Rebecca Larkin is an actress and director, known for the short films "The Rub" (2017), "The Mariner's Revenge" (2014), and "Understanding Conflict" (2013), as well as her appearances on Broadway. Larkin made her Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning Lincoln Center Revival of "South Pacific", where she played the role of Liat.

"South Pacific" is a musical composed by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and book by Hammerstein and Joshua Logan. The work premiered in 1949 on Broadway and was an immediate hit, running for 1,925 performances.

Larkin has also performed in the Tony Award winning Broadway production of "Avenue Q", as well as the 1st National Tour of "Barbie Live! in Fairytopia". Larkin's New York credits include "Sondheim! The Birthday Concert", and the 21st Annual Gypsy of the Year.

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Larkin performed the songs "It's Quiet Uptown" and "My Shot" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "It's Quiet Uptown" is the 18th song from Act 2 of the musical "Hamilton".

"My Shot" is the 3rd song from Act 1 of the musical "Hamilton". During Larkin's performance of "My Shot", she was accompanied on-stage by Kristen Alyson Browne (ABC's "Quantico"), Russell Fischer (Broadway's "Jersey Boys"), Angelo Luis Rios ("Jesus Christ Superstar" National Tour), and Kristin Yancy (Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra).

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On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and… Show more

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

As a trio, Russell Fischer (Broadway's "Jersey Boys"), Adam B. Shapiro (HBO's "The Normal Heart"), and Matthew McGloin (Off-Broadway's "Bastard Jones") performed a medley of the songs "Holding Out for a Hero", "Hot Stuff", and "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer.

"Holding Out for a Hero" is a song recorded by Bonnie Tyler for the soundtrack to the 1984 film "Footloose". "Holding Out for a Hero" was a Top 40 hit in several European countries, as well as Canada and the United States. Its 1985 re-release in the United Kingdom reached number two and topped the singles chart in Ireland.

"Hot Stuff" is a song by Donna Summer from her 7th studio album "Bad Girls" (1979), produced by English producer Pete Bellotte and Italian producer Giorgio Moroder. Up to that point, Summer had mainly been associated with disco songs, but this song also showed a significant rock direction, including a guitar solo by ex-Doobie Brother and Steely Dan guitarist Jeff "Skunk" Baxter.

"I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)" is a song recorded by Whitney Houston for her 2nd studio album, "Whitney" (1987). The song became a worldwide success, topping the charts in 18 countries. In the United States, it became Houston's 4th consecutive chart topper and is certified 6-times platinum.

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Tym Moss is one of today's most dynamic New York City entertainers. As a singer, actor, and songwriter for television, film, and theater, he performs live, and his music is available on all online outlets.

In addition to his incredible comedic timing, Moss is an accomplished dramatic actor, as well as singer and songwriter. Moss starred — alongside Robbie Wade — in the full-length, movie musical "Junk", which held its New York City premiere on November 19, 2019, with a Q&A hosted… Show more

Tym Moss is one of today's most dynamic New York City entertainers. As a singer, actor, and songwriter for television, film, and theater, he performs live, and his music is available on all online outlets.

In addition to his incredible comedic timing, Moss is an accomplished dramatic actor, as well as singer and songwriter. Moss starred — alongside Robbie Wade — in the full-length, movie musical "Junk", which held its New York City premiere on November 19, 2019, with a Q&A hosted afterwards by journalist Michael Musto.

Moss is also the Co-Host of the interview series "If These Walls Could Talk", of which he is joined by actress and comedian Wendy Stuart Kaplan. With their unique style of honest and emotional interviews, sharing the fascinating backstory of celebrities, entertainers, recording artists, writers, and artists, while bringing their audience along for a fantastic ride, the series is taped live. Guests have included theatre veteran and Drama Desk Award winner Jay Michaels, actor and playwright Charles Busch, Native American Music Hall of Fame inductee Felipe Rose, New York City icon Joey Arias, and fashion designer Richie Rich.

On June 24, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "NYC Pride: Youth Pride", at 14th Street Park, in New York City. Produced in partnership with founding sponsor Target, the annual "NYC Pride: Youth Pride" is a socially engaging, safe space where teens can celebrate New York Pride with their friends. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Moss performed the song "Get Your Girl On" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Get Your Girl On" is a song from Moss' album "Free Again" (2016). "Get Your Girl On" was written Moss, and produced by Reginald Todd.

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Tym Moss is one of today's most dynamic New York City entertainers. As a singer, actor, and songwriter for television, film, and theater, he performs live, and his music is available on all online outlets. His internet radio show, "Artists Exposed with Tym Moss", can be heard around the world. He is also an activist for the LGBTQ+ community.

In addition to his incredible comedic timing, Moss is an accomplished dramatic actor, as well as singer and songwriter. Moss starred — alongside… Show more

Tym Moss is one of today's most dynamic New York City entertainers. As a singer, actor, and songwriter for television, film, and theater, he performs live, and his music is available on all online outlets. His internet radio show, "Artists Exposed with Tym Moss", can be heard around the world. He is also an activist for the LGBTQ+ community.

In addition to his incredible comedic timing, Moss is an accomplished dramatic actor, as well as singer and songwriter. Moss starred — alongside Robbie Wayne — in the full-length, movie musical "Junk", which held its New York City premiere on November 19, 2019, with a Q&A hosted afterwards by journalist Michael Musto.

Moss is also the Co-Host of the interview series "If These Walls Could Talk", of which he is joined by actress and comedian Wendy Stuart Kaplan. With their unique style of honest and emotional interviews, sharing the fascinating backstory of celebrities, entertainers, recording artists, writers, and artists, while bringing their audience along for a fantastic ride, the series is taped live. Guests have included theatre veteran and Drama Desk Award winner Jay Michaels, actor and playwright Charles Busch, Native American Music Hall of Fame inductee Felipe Rose, New York City icon Joey Arias, and fashion designer Richie Rich.

On June 25, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "NYC Pride: Pride Fest", at Hudson Street and 13th Street, in New York City. The event was presented T-Mobile. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Moss performed the song "Get Your Girl On" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Get Your Girl On" is a song from Moss' album "Free Again" (2016).

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Will Roland is an American actor and singer, best known for originating the role of Jared Kleinman in the Broadway musical "Dear Evan Hansen", for which he received a Grammy Award and Daytime Emmy Award. On film, he is known for his role in the drama film "One Penny". Most recently, he played the lead role of Jeremy Heere in the musical "Be More Chill" both Off-Broadway and on Broadway.

In 2021, Roland played the role of Zeke Matthews in the studio cast recording of "Goosebumps The… Show more

Will Roland is an American actor and singer, best known for originating the role of Jared Kleinman in the Broadway musical "Dear Evan Hansen", for which he received a Grammy Award and Daytime Emmy Award. On film, he is known for his role in the drama film "One Penny". Most recently, he played the lead role of Jeremy Heere in the musical "Be More Chill" both Off-Broadway and on Broadway.

In 2021, Roland played the role of Zeke Matthews in the studio cast recording of "Goosebumps The Musical: Phantom of the Auditorium". He starred alongside Krystina Alabado and Noah Galvin. Outside of theater, Roland has appeared in the series "Billions" (Showtime), "Red Oaks" (Amazon Prime Video), "The Mysteries of Laura" (NBC), and "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" (Netflix).

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Roland performed the song "A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square" is a British romantic popular song written in 1939 and published in 1940.

The song was written in the-then small French fishing village of Le Lavandou — now a favorite resort for British holiday-makers and second-home owners — shortly before the outbreak of World War II. It is typically sung in the key of D-flat major by male vocalists, such as Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra.

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William Torres is a dancer from Ocala, Florida. As a student of West Port High School, he was a part of Marion County Center for the Arts. West Port High School is the home of Marion County Center for the Arts, the visual/performing arts magnet program in Marion County.

Torres is also a member of Dance By Sheila, founded by Sheila Ruotolo. She has been with the Marion County School board since 2003. She is also the Founder and Director of the Madison Street Academy of Visual and… Show more

William Torres is a dancer from Ocala, Florida. As a student of West Port High School, he was a part of Marion County Center for the Arts. West Port High School is the home of Marion County Center for the Arts, the visual/performing arts magnet program in Marion County.

Torres is also a member of Dance By Sheila, founded by Sheila Ruotolo. She has been with the Marion County School board since 2003. She is also the Founder and Director of the Madison Street Academy of Visual and Performing Arts dance department. Her students study a diverse spectrum including ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, and modern.

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

The event featured a dance performance by Torres, as his first performance in New York City. Taken from "The Nutcracker", Torres danced to the song "Trepak (Russian Dance)" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer, as well as a featured Speaker.

"The Nutcracker" is an 1892 two-act ballet, originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov with a score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The libretto is adapted from E. T. A. Hoffmann's 1816 short story "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King".

Tchaikovsky's score has become one of his most famous compositions. Among other things, the score is noted for its use of the celesta, an instrument that the composer had already employed in his much lesser known symphonic ballad "The Voyevoda".

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Jim Henson, the creator of The Muppets and "Sesame Street", is the 11th hero in The New York Times bestselling picture book biography series for ages 5 to 8.

Henson was always dreaming up something new, and always expressing his belief in the goodness of people. He was a born performer with a terrific sense of humor, and he used those talents to help create two of the most beloved programs in television history: "The Muppet Show" and "Sesame Street". Through The Muppets, Henson showed… Show more

Jim Henson, the creator of The Muppets and "Sesame Street", is the 11th hero in The New York Times bestselling picture book biography series for ages 5 to 8.

Henson was always dreaming up something new, and always expressing his belief in the goodness of people. He was a born performer with a terrific sense of humor, and he used those talents to help create two of the most beloved programs in television history: "The Muppet Show" and "Sesame Street". Through The Muppets, Henson showed the world that there is nothing more beautiful than imagination, especially when it is accompanied by laughter and kindness.

Brad Meltzer is the author of The New York Times bestselling series for children, "Ordinary People Change the World", as well as six The New York Times bestselling thrillers for adults: "The Tenth Justice", "Dead Even", "The First Counsel", "The Millionaires", "The Zero Game", and "The Book of Fate". He is also the #1 bestselling author of the critically acclaimed comic books "Identity Crisis" and "Justice League of America", and is the Co-Creator of the television series "Jack & Bobby".

As part of the series "Ordinary People Change the World" published by Penguin Random House, Meltzer authored the children's book "I Am Jim Henson", with illustration by cartoonist Christopher Eliopoulos.

This series inspired the PBS Kids television show "Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum". These books encourage kids to dream big. Included in each book are:

- A timeline of key events in the hero's history.
- Photos that bring the story more fully to life.
- Comic-book-style illustrations that are irresistibly adorable.
- Childhood moments that influenced the hero.
- Facts that make great conversation starters.
- A character trait that made the person heroic and that readers can aspire to.

During an appearance on January 10, 2017, at a Barnes & Noble location, Neal Bennington of NealB.tv interviewed Meltzer, with Shefik serving as Camera Operator.

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A.J. Shively stars as Owen Duignan in the musical "Paradise Square", which opened on Broadway at the Barrymore Theatre on April 3, 2022. Shively has also been seen on Broadway in "Bright Star" (where he was nominated for a Drama Desk Award), "La Cage aux Folles", and "Brigadoon". Additionally, he performed in the National Tour of "The Sound of Music".

On television, Shively was seen as Jerry McConnell on CBS' "Bull", as well as Chef André Soltner in HBO Max' "Julia". Additional… Show more

A.J. Shively stars as Owen Duignan in the musical "Paradise Square", which opened on Broadway at the Barrymore Theatre on April 3, 2022. Shively has also been seen on Broadway in "Bright Star" (where he was nominated for a Drama Desk Award), "La Cage aux Folles", and "Brigadoon". Additionally, he performed in the National Tour of "The Sound of Music".

On television, Shively was seen as Jerry McConnell on CBS' "Bull", as well as Chef André Soltner in HBO Max' "Julia". Additional television credits include "Hunters", "The Blacklist", "Madam Secretary", "Younger", and "Homeland".

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Shively performed the song "I Don't Want to Be" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. It is a song by American singer-songwriter Gavin DeGraw from his 2003 debut album, "Chariot". The song gained exposure after being featured as the opening theme to The CW teen drama series "One Tree Hill", and it was released as a radio single on February 17, 2004. It peaked at number 10 in the United States in 2005 and became a top-20 hit in Australia, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden.

DeGraw wrote the song as a message to adolescents, encouraging them to be themselves, and to not let outside factors change their personalities.

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You may know Adam B. Shapiro as Der Rov from "Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish", as Gimpel from "Gimpel the Fool", as the cantor in "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" on Amazon Prime, or even from his virtual series "(Still A) Live From Shapiro Hall". He is an actor, who has also appeared in HBO's "The Normal Heart" (2014), NBC's "30 Rock", NBC's "The Mysteries of Laura", and "Master of None" (2015). Shapiro has done theatre, film, and television — in both English and Yiddish. He is a lot of laughs… Show more

You may know Adam B. Shapiro as Der Rov from "Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish", as Gimpel from "Gimpel the Fool", as the cantor in "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" on Amazon Prime, or even from his virtual series "(Still A) Live From Shapiro Hall". He is an actor, who has also appeared in HBO's "The Normal Heart" (2014), NBC's "30 Rock", NBC's "The Mysteries of Laura", and "Master of None" (2015). Shapiro has done theatre, film, and television — in both English and Yiddish. He is a lot of laughs, wrapped around a big cuddly heart.

In addition to acting, Shapiro is also an award-winning singer and cabaret performer. He won the 2013 MAC Award for Musical Comedy performer of the year for his show, "Guide to the Perfect Breakup". In 2020, Shapiro directed the star-studded "Folksbiene Chanukah Spectacular" at National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene, a virtual benefit that enlisted more than 50 Yiddish performers from across the world.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Shapiro performed the song "Happily Ever After" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Happily Ever After" is from the musical comedy "Once Upon a Mattress". It opened Off-Broadway in May 1959, and then moved to Broadway. The play was written as a humorous adaptation of the 1835 Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale "The Princess and the Pea".

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You may know Adam B. Shapiro as Der Rov from "Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish", as Gimpel from "Gimpel the Fool", as the cantor in "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" on Amazon Prime, or even from his virtual series "(Still A) Live From Shapiro Hall". He is an actor, who has also appeared in HBO's "The Normal Heart" (2014), NBC's "30 Rock", NBC's "The Mysteries of Laura", and "Master of None" (2015). Shapiro has done theatre, film, and television — in both English and Yiddish. He is a lot of laughs… Show more

You may know Adam B. Shapiro as Der Rov from "Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish", as Gimpel from "Gimpel the Fool", as the cantor in "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" on Amazon Prime, or even from his virtual series "(Still A) Live From Shapiro Hall". He is an actor, who has also appeared in HBO's "The Normal Heart" (2014), NBC's "30 Rock", NBC's "The Mysteries of Laura", and "Master of None" (2015). Shapiro has done theatre, film, and television — in both English and Yiddish. He is a lot of laughs, wrapped around a big cuddly heart.

In addition to acting, Shapiro is also an award-winning singer and cabaret performer. He won the 2013 MAC Award for Musical Comedy performer of the year for his show, "Guide to the Perfect Breakup". In 2020, Shapiro directed the star-studded "Folksbiene Chanukah Spectacular" at National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene, a virtual benefit that enlisted more than 50 Yiddish performers from across the world.

On June 4, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "Pride 2016", in White Plains, New York. "Pride 2016" was a multiple-attraction, family entertainment event, presented by The LOFT: LGBTQ+ Community Services Center. Musical performances by Broadway stars. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Shapiro performed the song "Holding Out for a Hero" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Holding Out for a Hero" is a song recorded by Bonnie Tyler for the soundtrack to the 1984 film "Footloose".

"Holding Out for a Hero" was a Top 40 hit in several European countries, as well as Canada and the United States. Its 1985 re-release in the United Kingdom reached number two and topped the singles chart in Ireland.

Videographer: Shefik Show less

You may know Adam B. Shapiro as Der Rov from "Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish", as Gimpel from "Gimpel the Fool", as the cantor in "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" on Amazon Prime, or even from his virtual series "(Still A) Live From Shapiro Hall". He is an actor, who has also appeared in HBO's "The Normal Heart" (2014), NBC's "30 Rock", NBC's "The Mysteries of Laura", and "Master of None" (2015). Shapiro has done theatre, film, and television — in both English and Yiddish. He is a lot of laughs… Show more

You may know Adam B. Shapiro as Der Rov from "Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish", as Gimpel from "Gimpel the Fool", as the cantor in "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" on Amazon Prime, or even from his virtual series "(Still A) Live From Shapiro Hall". He is an actor, who has also appeared in HBO's "The Normal Heart" (2014), NBC's "30 Rock", NBC's "The Mysteries of Laura", and "Master of None" (2015). Shapiro has done theatre, film, and television — in both English and Yiddish. He is a lot of laughs, wrapped around a big cuddly heart.

In addition to acting, Shapiro is also an award-winning singer and cabaret performer. He won the 2013 MAC Award for Musical Comedy performer of the year for his show, "Guide to the Perfect Breakup". In 2020, Shapiro directed the star-studded "Folksbiene Chanukah Spectacular" at National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene, a virtual benefit that enlisted more than 50 Yiddish performers from across the world.

On June 4, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "Pride 2016", in White Plains, New York. "Pride 2016" was a multiple-attraction, family entertainment event, presented by The LOFT: LGBTQ+ Community Services Center. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Shapiro performed the song "If I Could Turn Back Time" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "If I Could Turn Back Time" is a song by Cher from her 19th studio album, "Heart of Stone" (1989). The song was written specifically for Cher by Diane Warren, who produced it in collaboration with Guy Roche. The lyrics talk about the feelings of remorse, due to bad deeds and the willingness to reverse time to make things right.

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Bebe Neuwirth is an American actress, singer, and dancer. On television, she played Dr. Lilith Sternin (Frasier Crane's wife), on both the television sitcom "Cheers" (in a starring role) and its spin-off "Frasier" (in a recurring guest role). The role won her two Emmy Awards. In 2005, Neuwirth was cast as Bureau Chief / Assistant District Attorney Tracey Kibre in the short-lived "Law & Order" courtroom drama series "Law & Order: Trial By Jury", on NBC. On stage, she played the Tony Award… Show more

Bebe Neuwirth is an American actress, singer, and dancer. On television, she played Dr. Lilith Sternin (Frasier Crane's wife), on both the television sitcom "Cheers" (in a starring role) and its spin-off "Frasier" (in a recurring guest role). The role won her two Emmy Awards. In 2005, Neuwirth was cast as Bureau Chief / Assistant District Attorney Tracey Kibre in the short-lived "Law & Order" courtroom drama series "Law & Order: Trial By Jury", on NBC. On stage, she played the Tony Award winning roles of Nickie in the revival of "Sweet Charity" (1986) and Velma Kelly in the revival of "Chicago" (1996). Other Broadway musical roles include Lola in the revival of "Damn Yankees" (1994) and Morticia Addams in "The Addams Family" (2010). From 2014 to 2017, she starred as Nadine Tolliver in the CBS political drama "Madam Secretary". In film, she portrayed Nora Shepherd in the original "Jumanji" (1995) and "Jumanji: The Next Level" (2019).

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Neuwirth performed the song "And the World Goes 'Round" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. The song is from the Off-Broadway musical revue of the same name. The revue takes its title from a tune the songwriting team wrote for Liza Minnelli to sing in the film "New York, New York" (that song, however, is titled "But the World Goes 'Round").

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Brian Craft has served as Director of Marketing and Outreach at Manatee Performing Arts Center, Director of Marketing and Communications at Realize Bradenton, and in public relations at fashion firm IHPR. Craft is also very involved in the community, serving on the Board of Directors at Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA), as well as a Board Member and Adviser at Project Pride.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in… Show more

Brian Craft has served as Director of Marketing and Outreach at Manatee Performing Arts Center, Director of Marketing and Communications at Realize Bradenton, and in public relations at fashion firm IHPR. Craft is also very involved in the community, serving on the Board of Directors at Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA), as well as a Board Member and Adviser at Project Pride.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Craft performed the song "Just True" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. It is a song from the 2005 musical "Yank!", with book and lyrics by David Zellnik and music by his brother Joseph. "Yank!" tells the story of Stu, a scared Midwestern kid who gets drafted for World War II in 1943, and becomes a photographer for Yank magazine, the journal "for and by the servicemen". "Yank!" has a score that pays homage to the 1940s and explores what it means to be a man, and what it is to fall in love and struggle. "Yank!" takes its title from the World War II publication Yank: The Army Weekly.

"Yank!" enjoyed critical success during its twice-extended, sold-out run at York Theatre Company in 2010, receiving 7 Drama Desk Award nominations, 3 Outer Critics Circle Award nominations, and 2 Lucille Lortel Award nominations — all including Best Musical. Craft performed the role of Stu, during the 2016 run at Manatee Performing Arts Center in Florida.

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Christiane Noll is known as one of the most versatile stage performers of this generation. In 2019, she starred in the Broadway company of the Tony Award winning musical "Dear Evan Hansen", playing the role of Cynthia Murphy.

Noll made her Broadway debut as Emma Carew in "Jekyll & Hyde" (1997), where she originated the role and received Tony Award and Drama Desk Award nominations. In 2010, she was seen on Broadway as Mother in the revival of "Ragtime", for which she was nominated for a… Show more

Christiane Noll is known as one of the most versatile stage performers of this generation. In 2019, she starred in the Broadway company of the Tony Award winning musical "Dear Evan Hansen", playing the role of Cynthia Murphy.

Noll made her Broadway debut as Emma Carew in "Jekyll & Hyde" (1997), where she originated the role and received Tony Award and Drama Desk Award nominations. In 2010, she was seen on Broadway as Mother in the revival of "Ragtime", for which she was nominated for a Tony Award. Noll also appeared on Broadway in the revue "It Ain't Nothin' but the Blues" (1999).

Also, Noll has starred in the National Tours of "Grease" as Sandy, "Miss Saigon" as Ellen, and "City of Angels" as Mallory/Avril, as well as a tour of Australia and Thailand as Nellie in "South Pacific". Noll received her second Drama Desk Award nomination for her work in "Chaplin" on Broadway and was seen as Sister Margaretta in NBC's "The Sound of Music Live!" (2013) with Carrie Underwood.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Noll performed the song "Back to Before" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. The song is from "Ragtime", of which Noll performed as part of her Tony Award nominated performance on Broadway. Set in the early 20th century, "Ragtime" incorporates historical figures, such as Harry Houdini, Evelyn Nesbit, Booker T. Washington, J.P. Morgan, Henry Ford, Stanford White, Harry Kendall Thaw, Admiral Peary, Matthew Henson, and Emma Goldman.

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Christine Dwyer hails from right outside of Boston, Massachusetts, where she discovered her love of Boston sports and musical theatre. After graduating high school, she attended The Hartt School, University of Hartford, where she acquired a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre and a minor in English. Immediately after graduating, she trekked to New York City, so she could audition for the national tour of the hit musical "Rent". She ended up booking the principal role of Maureen Johnson and left to tour… Show more

Christine Dwyer hails from right outside of Boston, Massachusetts, where she discovered her love of Boston sports and musical theatre. After graduating high school, she attended The Hartt School, University of Hartford, where she acquired a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre and a minor in English. Immediately after graduating, she trekked to New York City, so she could audition for the national tour of the hit musical "Rent". She ended up booking the principal role of Maureen Johnson and left to tour the United States, Canada, and Japan.

After finally moving to New York City, Dwyer booked the 2nd National Tour of "Wicked" as the Elphaba understudy, under the direction of multiple Tony Award winner Joe Mantello. Through hard work and perseverance, Dwyer made her way through the ranks at "Wicked", quickly becoming the Standby for Elphaba and then taking over for the role of Elphaba. After her run as Elphaba on tour, "Wicked" brought her to Broadway, where she flew high for several years as the lovable green witch. Dwyer even played the role of Elphaba for President Barack Obama, and on the Tony Awards for the show's 10th Anniversary.

In 2016, Dwyer opened the 1st National Tour of "Finding Neverland" as Sylvia Lewellyn Davies, making her only the second person to ever play the role. This show was directed by Tony Award winner Diane Paulus. Dwyer also appeared in the National Tour of "Waitress", taking on the lead role of Jenna.

On June 4, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "Pride 2016", in White Plains, New York. "Pride 2016" was a multiple-attraction, family entertainment event, presented by The LOFT: LGBTQ+ Community Services Center. Musical performances by Broadway stars were highlights of the program.

Dwyer performed the song "Defying Gravity" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Defying Gravity" is the signature song from the musical "Wicked", composed by Stephen Schwartz.

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Dalton Maldonado is a high school basketball player and LGBTQ+ rights activist, who came to national prominence when he shared his harrowing tale of intimidation when he came out at a high school basketball game in Kentucky.

In 2015, he was featured as one of the most influential people in the LGBTQ+ community by the magazine Out, and he was named "Person of the Year" by Outsports. He grew up in Kentucky and became known after coming out after a basketball game. Maldonado wants to make… Show more

Dalton Maldonado is a high school basketball player and LGBTQ+ rights activist, who came to national prominence when he shared his harrowing tale of intimidation when he came out at a high school basketball game in Kentucky.

In 2015, he was featured as one of the most influential people in the LGBTQ+ community by the magazine Out, and he was named "Person of the Year" by Outsports. He grew up in Kentucky and became known after coming out after a basketball game. Maldonado wants to make sure no other teen endures the harassment he received after coming out in December 2014.

Following reports that Maldonado had been harassed because of his sexuality by the rival team from Bryan Station High School, both schools were challenged in the press. Both schools said that they had conducted internal investigations and denied any wrongdoing. The Fayette County Public Schools administration's investigation concluded that the event "was inaccurately reported and mischaracterized" by media.

After coming out, Maldonado's picture was left out of the two-page spread that commemorated his basketball team in his senior yearbook. In addition to the team photo, there were individual call-outs for every member of the team except Maldonado. His school, Betsy Layne High School, claimed that the omission was accidental and that the school district "holistically supports Dalton Maldonado just as we do all our students". They point out that the book includes 15 photos of Maldonado, including many that show him playing basketball.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert in New York City. Broadway Sings for Pride is a non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Maldonado addressed the audience with an inspirational speech, where Shefik served as Videographer.

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Daniel Quadrino is a New York City based actor, singer, and songwriter. He entertained audiences as "Mike Teavee" in the 1st National Touring of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory". Previously, Quadrino was seen on Broadway as Boq in "Wicked", Albert in Disney's "Newsies", and as part of the ensemble in the revival of "Bye, Bye, Birdie". He was also seen in NBC's "Peter Pan Live!".

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New… Show more

Daniel Quadrino is a New York City based actor, singer, and songwriter. He entertained audiences as "Mike Teavee" in the 1st National Touring of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory". Previously, Quadrino was seen on Broadway as Boq in "Wicked", Albert in Disney's "Newsies", and as part of the ensemble in the revival of "Bye, Bye, Birdie". He was also seen in NBC's "Peter Pan Live!".

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City.

Quadrino performed the song "Imagine" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Imagine" is a song by John Lennon, from his 1971 album of the same name.

On June 12, 2016, Omar Mateen, a 29-year-old man, killed 49 people and wounded 53 more in a mass shooting at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Orlando police officers shot and killed him after a three-hour standoff. In a 911 call made shortly after the shooting began, Mateen swore allegiance to the leader of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, and said the United States killing of Abu Waheeb in Iraq the previous month "triggered" the shooting. He later told a negotiator he was "out here right now", because of the American-led interventions in Iraq and Syria, and that the negotiator should tell the United States to stop the bombing. The incident was deemed a terrorist attack by FBI investigators.

Pulse was hosting a "Latin Night", and most of the victims were Latino. It is the deadliest incident in the history of violence against LGBTQ+ people in the United States, as well as the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11 attacks in 2001, and was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, until the 2017 Las Vegas shooting.

Quadrino dedicated his performance of "Imagine" to reflect on the tragedy that happened in Orlando. He was joined onstage by members of the Broadway community.

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Daniel Quadrino is a New York City based actor, singer, and songwriter. He entertained audiences as "Mike Teavee" in the 1st National Touring of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory". Previously, Quadrino was seen on Broadway as Boq in "Wicked", Albert in Disney's "Newsies", and as part of the ensemble in the revival of "Bye, Bye, Birdie". He was also seen in NBC's "Peter Pan Live!". In 2021, Quadrino released the song "Feel Your Love".

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered… Show more

Daniel Quadrino is a New York City based actor, singer, and songwriter. He entertained audiences as "Mike Teavee" in the 1st National Touring of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory". Previously, Quadrino was seen on Broadway as Boq in "Wicked", Albert in Disney's "Newsies", and as part of the ensemble in the revival of "Bye, Bye, Birdie". He was also seen in NBC's "Peter Pan Live!". In 2021, Quadrino released the song "Feel Your Love".

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Quadrino performed the song "Rise Up" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Rise Up" is a song by Andra Day, from her album "Cheers to the Fall".

In 2016, for the first time ever, Broadway Sings for Pride wanted to honor someone special. They flew AIDS/LGBTQ+ activist Burks for their 6th annual pride event in New York City. Burks had no idea that during the event her story would be told, along with a special heartfelt performance.

Burks, also known as the Cemetery Angel, is a former caregiver of AIDS crisis victims and an AIDS awareness advocate based in Arkansas. During the AIDS epidemic in the late 1980s, she used her salary as a real estate agent to care for AIDS patients whose families and communities had abandoned them. Due to the stigma surrounding the disease at the time, she was often the patients' only caregiver until they eventually died. She is additionally recognized for burying a number of AIDS victims in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

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Dante Melucci is an actor, singer, and musician who originated the role of Freddy Hamilton in Andrew Lloyd Webber's production of the 4-time Tony Award nominee "School of Rock: The Musical" on Broadway. Melucci played the role from December 6, 2015 to May 8, 2016. In April 2016, he banged the drums for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Stevie Nicks in a surprise appearance, following a "School of Rock: The Musical" performance. Melucci also appeared in the 70th Annual Tony Awards, as well as… Show more

Dante Melucci is an actor, singer, and musician who originated the role of Freddy Hamilton in Andrew Lloyd Webber's production of the 4-time Tony Award nominee "School of Rock: The Musical" on Broadway. Melucci played the role from December 6, 2015 to May 8, 2016. In April 2016, he banged the drums for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Stevie Nicks in a surprise appearance, following a "School of Rock: The Musical" performance. Melucci also appeared in the 70th Annual Tony Awards, as well as the television series "Gotham" on FOX, where he played the role of Laughing Boy in the ending scene of the Season 2 episode, "Rise of the Villains: The Last Laugh", in which Jerome dies and leaves behind the legacy of Joker.

"School of Rock: The Musical" is a rock musical with music by Webber, lyrics by Glenn Slater, and a book by Julian Fellowes. Based on the 2003 film of the same name, the musical follows Dewey Finn, an out-of-work rock singer and guitarist who pretends to be a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school.

During October 2015, Melucci and the rest of the original cast of "School of Rock: The Musical" went into Avatar Studios in New York City, to record the score of the musical with Webber, Slater, Ethan Popp, and Green Day producer Rob Cavallo. What came out was an album of heart-pumping, show-stopping tracks that will live on in Broadway infamy.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Melucci performed the song "American Idiot" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "American Idiot" is a protest song by rock band Green Day.

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Frenchie Davis is a Broadway performer and a soul, dance/electronica, and pop singer. She came to public attention in 2003 as a contestant on "American Idol". She began performing in "Rent" on Broadway soon afterward, and was a member of the cast for four years.

Henry Krieger is a musical theatre composer. He most notably wrote the music for the Broadway shows "Dreamgirls" (1981), "The Tap Dance Kid" (1983), and "Side Show" (1997). Krieger was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Score… Show more

Frenchie Davis is a Broadway performer and a soul, dance/electronica, and pop singer. She came to public attention in 2003 as a contestant on "American Idol". She began performing in "Rent" on Broadway soon afterward, and was a member of the cast for four years.

Henry Krieger is a musical theatre composer. He most notably wrote the music for the Broadway shows "Dreamgirls" (1981), "The Tap Dance Kid" (1983), and "Side Show" (1997). Krieger was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Score for both "Dreamgirls" and "Side Show", won the Grammy Award for Best Cast Show Album for the cast album of "Dreamgirls", and received three nominations for the Academy Award for Best Song for songs he wrote for the 2006 "Dreamgirls" film.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Broadway Sings for Pride is a non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, and raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Accompanied by Krieger on piano, Davis performed the song "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" is a torch song from the Broadway musical "Dreamgirls", with lyrics by Tom Eyen and music by Krieger.

In addition to its presence in the musical, "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" is also notable as the debut single of two women who portrayed Effie. Jennifer Holliday originated the role on Broadway in 1981 and won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for the role, as well as the Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for its re-release in 1982.

Jennifer Hudson portrayed Effie in the 2006 film adaptation of the musical, winning an Academy Award.

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After years of steady work in film and television, and over 150 credits on his IMDb.com page, actor and comedian Jason Stuart has achieved a pinnacle of success many actors only dream of. Indeed, with guest-starring and supporting credits in everything from the Prime Video & Amazon Studios series "Goliath" with Billy Bob Thornton, to the Netflix series "Love" with Judd Apatow, to the films "Sleepy Hollow" (1999) and "Tangerine" (2015), Stuart has established himself as one of those… Show more

After years of steady work in film and television, and over 150 credits on his IMDb.com page, actor and comedian Jason Stuart has achieved a pinnacle of success many actors only dream of. Indeed, with guest-starring and supporting credits in everything from the Prime Video & Amazon Studios series "Goliath" with Billy Bob Thornton, to the Netflix series "Love" with Judd Apatow, to the films "Sleepy Hollow" (1999) and "Tangerine" (2015), Stuart has established himself as one of those all-too-familiar faces.

Stuart's talent and determination got him some early professional work in the films "Kindergarten Cop" (1990) and "Vegas Vacation" (1997), as well as the television shows "Murder, She Wrote" and "The Drew Carey Show".

For Stuart, one of the most significant moments in his recent career was being cast as Joseph Randall, one of the villainous plantation owners — at the wrong end of a rebellion — in Nate Parker's searing historical drama "The Birth of a Nation" (2016). Being cast by Parker was a sign for Stuart that he had turned the corner from funny comic to established character actor.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Stuart addressed the audience with stand-up comedy during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. Stuart has used his experience, strength, and hope as an openly gay actor and comedian to support the community, by performing at countless benefits for issues ranging from Black Lives Matter, Latinx civil rights and racial equality, Holocaust remembrance, HIV/AIDS awareness, LGBTQ+ rights, marriage equality, women's rights, homeless awareness, and the dignity of all.

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Kimberley Locke is a singer-songwriter and television personality. She has recorded in the dance and pop genres, and has targeted the adult contemporary radio format. She was the co-host of the daytime talk show "Dr. and the Diva".

Locke gained fame with her participation in Season 2 of the television series "American Idol", in which she placed third. She went on to sign a record deal with Curb Records on September 6, 2003. Her debut album, "One Love", was released May 4, 2004. Debut… Show more

Kimberley Locke is a singer-songwriter and television personality. She has recorded in the dance and pop genres, and has targeted the adult contemporary radio format. She was the co-host of the daytime talk show "Dr. and the Diva".

Locke gained fame with her participation in Season 2 of the television series "American Idol", in which she placed third. She went on to sign a record deal with Curb Records on September 6, 2003. Her debut album, "One Love", was released May 4, 2004. Debut single "8th World Wonder" reached the top half of the Billboard Hot 100 and was successful on other charts, and entered the United Kingdom charts. In 2007, she garnered media attention for her participation in "Celebrity Fit Club".

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Locke performed the song "A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. It is a song written and composed by Mack David, Al Hoffman, and Jerry Livingston for Disney's film "Cinderella" (1950). In the song, Cinderella (voiced by Ilene Woods) encourages her animal friends to never stop dreaming, and that theme continues throughout the entire story. This song was also performed by Lily James for the soundtrack of the live-action version of "Cinderella" in 2015. In April 2020, Demi Lovato and Michael Bublé performed the song for "The Disney Family Singalong" on ABC.

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During June 2009, Matt DeAngelis got the call to make his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of "Hair" with Tony Award winner Diane Paulus at the helm. Following his time with the hippies, he launched the 1st National Tour of Green Day's "American Idiot" as the Representative from Jingletown.

DeAngelis returned home to Broadway (again with Paulus) in the hit musical "Waitress", where he starred opposite Tony Award winner Jessie Mueller, 2-time Grammy Award winner Jason… Show more

During June 2009, Matt DeAngelis got the call to make his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning production of "Hair" with Tony Award winner Diane Paulus at the helm. Following his time with the hippies, he launched the 1st National Tour of Green Day's "American Idiot" as the Representative from Jingletown.

DeAngelis returned home to Broadway (again with Paulus) in the hit musical "Waitress", where he starred opposite Tony Award winner Jessie Mueller, 2-time Grammy Award winner Jason Mraz, and the show's composer Sara Bareilles. DeAngelis then toured the United States with the "Waitress" National Tour as Earl, opposite his real-life wife Christine Dwyer as Jenna. On television, DeAngelis has appeared on CBS' "Person of Interest", CBS' "Madam Secretary", Marvel's "Daredevil", CBS' "Evil", ABC's "For Life", and NBC's "Chicago P.D.".

After moving to New York City, Dwyer booked the 2nd National Tour of "Wicked" as the Elphaba understudy, under the direction of multiple Tony Award winner Joe Mantello. Dwyer made her way through the ranks at "Wicked", becoming the Standby for Elphaba and then taking over for the role of Elphaba. After her run as Elphaba on tour, "Wicked" brought her to Broadway.

On June 4, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride held a Broadway-themed concert, as part of "Pride 2016", in White Plains, New York. "Pride 2016" was a multiple-attraction, family entertainment event, presented by The LOFT: LGBTQ+ Community Services Center. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

DeAngelis and Dwyer performed the song "Domino" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Domino" is a song by English singer and songwriter Jessie J from her debut studio album, "Who You Are" (2011).

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Mia Gentile is a New York City based singer, actor, and writer, who appeared in "Kinky Boots" on Broadway. She also appeared in "Forbidden Broadway", which is an Off-Broadway revue parodying musical theatre, particularly Broadway musicals. It was conceived, written, and directed by Gerard Alessandrini. Additionally, Gentile creates music as part of MISSYFIT, and starred in the viral video "The Stanley Steemer Variations (by Mia)".

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its… Show more

Mia Gentile is a New York City based singer, actor, and writer, who appeared in "Kinky Boots" on Broadway. She also appeared in "Forbidden Broadway", which is an Off-Broadway revue parodying musical theatre, particularly Broadway musicals. It was conceived, written, and directed by Gerard Alessandrini. Additionally, Gentile creates music as part of MISSYFIT, and starred in the viral video "The Stanley Steemer Variations (by Mia)".

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Gentile performed the songs "Michelle" and "Tell Me Something Good" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer.

"Michelle" is a song by the English rock band The Beatles from their 1965 album "Rubber Soul". It was composed principally by Paul McCartney, with the middle eight co-written with John Lennon. The song is a love ballad with part of its lyrics sung in French.

"Tell Me Something Good" is a song by Rufus and Chaka Khan, written by Stevie Wonder, and released in 1974. The single was a hit in the United States, peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and spent one week at number one on the Cash Box Top 100. It was among the earliest hits to use the guitar talk box, by Tony Maiden. Rufus won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group or Chorus for the song at the 17th Annual Grammy Awards in 1975.

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International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award… Show more

International award-winning songstress N'Kenge has been heralded by The New York Times as "a classically trained diva that can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera". Trained at both The Juilliard School and Manhattan School of Music, N'Kenge's vocal and musical range spans 5 octaves and 11 languages.

N'Kenge made her Broadway debut in "Sondheim on Sondheim", and slayed the game on Broadway originating the role of Mary Wells in "Motown: The Musical", which garnered a Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

N'Kenge performed the song "Defying Gravity" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Defying Gravity" is the signature song from the musical "Wicked", composed by Stephen Schwartz, originally recorded by Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth. It is mostly a solo sung by the main character of the show, Elphaba (the Wicked Witch of the West), with two small duets at the beginning and in the middle of the song between Elphaba and her friend Glinda, and a chorus part at the end in which the citizens of Oz sing.

The core to the song is that "Elphaba finds power through her own outsider status", which has universal appeal due to audiences rooting for outsiders. The piece begins with Elphaba and Glinda talking, then they slip into song, bickering in short sharp phrases that are reminiscent of how girls would argue in real life.

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Nathan Lee Graham is an actor and singer. His roles in feature film include Todd in "Zoolander" and "Zoolander 2", Frederick Montana in "Sweet Home Alabama", Bernard on the Fox comedy series "LA to Vegas", and François in the "Riverdale" spin-off "Katy Keene". On the small screen, he originated the role of Peter in "The Comeback", and had guest starring roles on "Scrubs", "Absolutely Fabulous", and "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit".

Graham's stage credits include the role of Phil… Show more

Nathan Lee Graham is an actor and singer. His roles in feature film include Todd in "Zoolander" and "Zoolander 2", Frederick Montana in "Sweet Home Alabama", Bernard on the Fox comedy series "LA to Vegas", and François in the "Riverdale" spin-off "Katy Keene". On the small screen, he originated the role of Peter in "The Comeback", and had guest starring roles on "Scrubs", "Absolutely Fabulous", and "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit".

Graham's stage credits include the role of Phil D'armano in the original Broadway cast of the Tony Award and Grammy Award nominated "The Wild Party", and as Miss Understanding in the original Broadway cast of the Tony Award nominated "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert". He received a Drama League Award nomination for the role of Rey Rey in the Off-Broadway production of "Wig Out", and won a Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Feature Performer in a Musical in "The Wild Party" Los Angeles Premiere in 2005. He earned a 2005 Best Classical Album Grammy Award for "Songs of Innocence and of Experience", as a soloist.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

Graham performed the song "Summertime" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Summertime" is an aria composed in 1934 by George Gershwin for the 1935 opera "Porgy and Bess". The lyrics are by DuBose Heyward, the author of the novel "Porgy" on which the opera was based, and Ira Gershwin.

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Patricia Velásquez is a Venezuelan actress and model. As an actress, she is known for her portrayal of Anck-su-namun in the 1999 film "The Mummy" and its 2001 sequel "The Mummy Returns".

In 1989, Velásquez participated in the Miss Venezuela 1989 contest. She represented Peninsula de la Guajira, a center of the Wayuu people, and placed as 2nd runner-up. After three years of engineering studies at college, Velásquez left for Milan, Italy, in pursuit of a modeling career. She is fluent in… Show more

Patricia Velásquez is a Venezuelan actress and model. As an actress, she is known for her portrayal of Anck-su-namun in the 1999 film "The Mummy" and its 2001 sequel "The Mummy Returns".

In 1989, Velásquez participated in the Miss Venezuela 1989 contest. She represented Peninsula de la Guajira, a center of the Wayuu people, and placed as 2nd runner-up. After three years of engineering studies at college, Velásquez left for Milan, Italy, in pursuit of a modeling career. She is fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Italian.

During her modeling career, Velásquez appeared on the covers of Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and Marie Claire among others, and several issues of the annual Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. This led to a large number of further modeling engagements. She was ranked as No. 45 on the Maxim Hot 100 Women of 2001, and No. 16 in Stuff magazine's "102 Sexiest Women in the World" poll in 2002.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Velásquez addressed the audience with an inspirational speech during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. In February 2015, Velásquez released her memoir "Straight Walk", recalling her journey from poverty to international acclaim. She came out as lesbian, saying that she wanted to set an example of honesty for her daughter.

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Powerhouse singer Rachel Lorin believes in finding beauty in the non-beautiful, an incessant search that began with her roots in Atlanta, Georgia. She has spent her entire life immersed in music. At 12 years old, she sang the national anthem at the U.S. Open.

In 2012, she developed an avid fan following, when she appeared on Oxygen's "The Next Big Thing: NY". Now a singer-songwriter, Lorin has a stream of releases planned for the months to come, including "Goodbye" — a stirring ode to… Show more

Powerhouse singer Rachel Lorin believes in finding beauty in the non-beautiful, an incessant search that began with her roots in Atlanta, Georgia. She has spent her entire life immersed in music. At 12 years old, she sang the national anthem at the U.S. Open.

In 2012, she developed an avid fan following, when she appeared on Oxygen's "The Next Big Thing: NY". Now a singer-songwriter, Lorin has a stream of releases planned for the months to come, including "Goodbye" — a stirring ode to Lorin's late father.

Lorin started her music career as a pop/dance artist, but has moved over to her true love: rock. She has a large multi-octave voice and enjoys writing and performing music that allows her to showcase her range. Her band members include Acey Slade on bass, J Bomb on drums, and Jaster Leon on guitar, alongside Angelo Fariello on guitar.

Slade is perhaps best known as the bassist of the alternative metal band Dope and the former guitarist of the horror punk and glam metal act Murderdolls. He is currently the lead singer and guitarist of the band Acey Slade & The Dark Party, and the live rhythm guitarist of Misfits. Previous to this, he served as the bassist in Joan Jett & The Blackhearts.

Heritage of Pride Inc is the non-profit organization that produces New York City's LGBTQ+ Pride events. On June 26, 2016, "NYC Pride 2016: PrideFest" was held, presented by T-Mobile. During the event, Broadway Sings For Pride coordinated a live performance segment.

Lorin and Slade performed the songs "The Kill (Bury Me)" and "She Brings Down the Moon" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer.

"The Kill (Bury Me)" is a song is by Thirty Seconds to Mars, released in 2006 as the second single from their second album, "A Beautiful Lie". It was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

"She Brings Down the Moon" is a song by Acey Slade & The Dark Party, from their album "The Dark Party", released in 2010.

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Powerhouse singer Rachel Lorin believes in finding beauty in the non-beautiful, an incessant search that began with her roots in Atlanta, Georgia. She has spent her entire life immersed in music. At 12 years old, she sang the national anthem at the U.S. Open.

In 2012, she developed an avid fan following, when she appeared on Oxygen's "The Next Big Thing: NY". Now a singer-songwriter, Lorin has a stream of releases planned for the months to come, including "Goodbye" — a stirring ode to… Show more

Powerhouse singer Rachel Lorin believes in finding beauty in the non-beautiful, an incessant search that began with her roots in Atlanta, Georgia. She has spent her entire life immersed in music. At 12 years old, she sang the national anthem at the U.S. Open.

In 2012, she developed an avid fan following, when she appeared on Oxygen's "The Next Big Thing: NY". Now a singer-songwriter, Lorin has a stream of releases planned for the months to come, including "Goodbye" — a stirring ode to Lorin's late father.

Lorin started her music career as a pop/dance artist, but has moved over to her true love: rock. She has a large multi-octave voice and enjoys writing and performing music that allows her to showcase her range. Her band members include Acey Slade on bass, J Bomb on drums, and Jaster Leon on guitar, alongside Angelo Fariello on guitar.

Slade is perhaps best known as the bassist of the alternative metal band Dope and the former guitarist of the horror punk and glam metal act Murderdolls. He is currently the lead singer and guitarist of the band Acey Slade & The Dark Party, and the live rhythm guitarist of Misfits. Previous to this, he served as the bassist in Joan Jett & The Blackhearts.

Heritage of Pride Inc is the non-profit organization that produces New York City's LGBTQ+ Pride events. On June 26, 2016, "NYC Pride 2016: PrideFest" was held, presented by T-Mobile. During the event, Broadway Sings for Pride coordinated a live performance segment.

Lorin and Slade performed the songs "The Kill (Bury Me)" and "She Brings Down the Moon" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer.

"The Kill (Bury Me)" is a song is by Thirty Seconds to Mars, released in 2006 as the second single from their second album, "A Beautiful Lie". It was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

"She Brings Down the Moon" is a song by Acey Slade & The Dark Party, from their album "The Dark Party", released in 2010.

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Rebecca Larkin is an actress and director, known for the short films "The Rub" (2017), "The Mariner's Revenge" (2014), and "Understanding Conflict" (2013), as well as her appearances on Broadway. Larkin made her Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning Lincoln Center Revival of "South Pacific", where she played the role of Liat.

"South Pacific" is a musical composed by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and book by Hammerstein and Joshua Logan. The work premiered in… Show more

Rebecca Larkin is an actress and director, known for the short films "The Rub" (2017), "The Mariner's Revenge" (2014), and "Understanding Conflict" (2013), as well as her appearances on Broadway. Larkin made her Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning Lincoln Center Revival of "South Pacific", where she played the role of Liat.

"South Pacific" is a musical composed by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and book by Hammerstein and Joshua Logan. The work premiered in 1949 on Broadway and was an immediate hit, running for 1,925 performances. Rodgers and Hammerstein believed they could write a musical based on Michener's work that would be financially successful and, at the same time, send a strong progressive message on racism.

Larkin has also performed in the Tony Award winning Broadway production of "Avenue Q", as well as the 1st National Tour of "Barbie Live! in Fairytopia". Larkin's New York credits include "Sondheim! The Birthday Concert", the 24th Annual Easter Bonnet Competition, and the 21st Annual Gypsy of the Year. Regionally, Larkin has performed in productions for "Rent" and "Miss Saigon".

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Larkin performed the song "Use What You Got" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Use What You Got" is from the Broadway musical "The Life". Based on an original idea by Ira Gasman, the musical explores the underbelly of Times Square's 42nd Street. Show less

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and… Show more

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

As a salute to 3-time Academy Award nominee, Tony Award winner, and Grammy Award winner Henry Krieger, Richie Abanes (Broadway's "Dreamgirls"), Amaker Smith (Broadway's "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert"), John Paul Almon (Broadway's "Side Show"), and Javier Ignacio (Broadway's "Side Show") performed the song "Steppin' to the Bad Side" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer.

"Dreamgirls" is a Broadway musical, with music by Krieger and lyrics and book by Tom Eyen. Based on the show business aspirations and successes of R&B acts such as The Supremes, The Shirelles, James Brown, Jackie Wilson, and others, the musical follows the story of a young female singing trio from Chicago, Illinois called "The Dreams", who become music superstars.

"Dreamgirls: Music from the Motion Picture" is a soundtrack album for the 2006 film "Dreamgirls", based on the Broadway musical. The album was released by Music World Entertainment and Columbia Records on December 5, 2006 in two versions: a single-disc standard release, and a two-disc deluxe edition.

The soundtrack also features the song "Steppin' to the Bad Side", originally performed by Jamie Foxx, Keith Robinson, Hinton Battle, Eddie Murphy, Anika Noni Rose, Jennifer Hudson, and Beyoncé in the film.

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Ruth Coker Burks, also known as the Cemetery Angel, is a former caregiver of AIDS crisis victims and an AIDS awareness advocate based in Arkansas. During the AIDS epidemic in the late 1980s, she used her salary as a real estate agent to care for AIDS patients whose families and communities had abandoned them. Due to the stigma surrounding the disease at the time, she was often the patients' only caregiver until they eventually died. She is additionally recognized for burying a number of AIDS… Show more

Ruth Coker Burks, also known as the Cemetery Angel, is a former caregiver of AIDS crisis victims and an AIDS awareness advocate based in Arkansas. During the AIDS epidemic in the late 1980s, she used her salary as a real estate agent to care for AIDS patients whose families and communities had abandoned them. Due to the stigma surrounding the disease at the time, she was often the patients' only caregiver until they eventually died. She is additionally recognized for burying a number of AIDS victims in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

In 2016, for the first time ever, Broadway Sings for Pride wanted to honor someone special. They flew AIDS/LGBTQ+ activist Burks for their 6th annual pride event in New York City. Burks had no idea that during the event her story would be told, along with a special heartfelt performance dedicated to her. Shefik served as Videographer.

With permission from David Koon of "Arkansas Times", Burks' story was retold from Koon's article published on January 8, 2015, via a performance by Eden Espinosa (Broadway's "Wicked" and "Rent"), Brock Ciarlelli (ABC's "The Middle"), Daniel Quadrino (Broadway's "Newsies" and "Wicked"), Cody Scott Lancaster (Broadway's "Rock of Ages"), and Tym Moss ("Girl, a Lopsided Tree Won't Ruin Christmas").

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Satomi Hofmann is a Broadway, television, film, and commercial actress, a voice-over artist, singer, musician, composer, arranger, music director, and podcast host.

After graduating from UCLA's prestigious theater program, Hofmann began working as a professional performer. Her skills led her to playing leading lady to the original Phantom (Michael Crawford) from "The Phantom of the Opera", along with David Cassidy, in the Las Vegas production show "EFX" at MGM Grand.

Never… Show more

Satomi Hofmann is a Broadway, television, film, and commercial actress, a voice-over artist, singer, musician, composer, arranger, music director, and podcast host.

After graduating from UCLA's prestigious theater program, Hofmann began working as a professional performer. Her skills led her to playing leading lady to the original Phantom (Michael Crawford) from "The Phantom of the Opera", along with David Cassidy, in the Las Vegas production show "EFX" at MGM Grand.

Never satisfied in her mission to create, Hofmann became a founding member of fan-favorite, all-female Celtic rock band Killian's Angels.

Hofmann's acting work finally led her towards her dream of becoming a Broadway performer, which she fulfilled when she joined the cast of "The Phantom of the Opera" in New York City, bringing her full-circle to the boards Crawford had graced so many years before.

Hofmann's television credits include CBS' "FBI: Most Wanted", HBO's "Mare of Easttown", CBS' "Bull", NBC's "New Amsterdam", NBC's "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit", NBC's "The Blacklist", and TBS' "Earth to America".

Heritage of Pride is the non-profit organization that produces New York City's official LGBTQ+ Pride events. Each year, the events commemorate the Stonewall Uprising of 1969. On June 26, 2016, "NYC Pride 2016: PrideFest" was held, presented by T-Mobile. During the event, Broadway Sings for Pride coordinated a live performance segment.

Hofmann performed the songs "Moondance" and "Whiskey in the Jar" during the event, where Shefik served as Videographer.

"Moondance" is a song recorded by Northern Irish singer and songwriter Van Morrison and is the title song on his third studio album, "Moondance" (1970).

"Whiskey in the Jar" is an Irish traditional song. It is one of the most widely performed traditional Irish songs and has been recorded by numerous artists since the 1950s. Killian's Angels recorded the song for their album "Ladies Room", released in 2004.

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Suze Orman is a financial advisor, author, and podcast host, with over 25 million books in circulation, available in 12 languages worldwide. Her work as a financial advisor gained notability with "The Suze Orman Show", which ran on CNBC from 2002 to 2015. During 2011, while she had her show on CNBC, Shefik also worked at the television network as Software Engineer.

Orman has written ten consecutive books about personal finance, which appeared on The New York Times Best Sellers list. She… Show more

Suze Orman is a financial advisor, author, and podcast host, with over 25 million books in circulation, available in 12 languages worldwide. Her work as a financial advisor gained notability with "The Suze Orman Show", which ran on CNBC from 2002 to 2015. During 2011, while she had her show on CNBC, Shefik also worked at the television network as Software Engineer.

Orman has written ten consecutive books about personal finance, which appeared on The New York Times Best Sellers list. She was named twice to the TIME 100 list of influential people, has won 2 Emmy Awards and 8 Gracie Awards. She has written, co-produced, and hosted 9 PBS specials, and has appeared on multiple additional television shows. She has been a guest on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" approximately 29 times and "Larry King Live" over 30 times. Orman is currently the podcast host of the podcast "Suze Orman's Women & Money (And Everyone Smart Enough to Listen)".

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people.

Orman addressed the audience with an inspirational speech during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. Orman is a world-renowned motivational speaker, who speaks annually to over 100,000 people in the United States, and throughout the world. USA TODAY named her a "one-woman financial advice powerhouse", and in 2007, BusinessWeek recognized her as "a top motivational speaker in the U.S.".

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TADA! Youth Theater, founded in 1984, is a New York City theater company that runs several programs for children and young adults, including original main stage productions and arts education programs. Several TADA! Youth Theater participants of the ensemble have gained publicity since participating in the program, including Amar Ramasar, Josh Peck, Kerry Washington, Azealia Banks, Jordan Peele, Ricki Lake, and Mizuo Peck.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th… Show more

TADA! Youth Theater, founded in 1984, is a New York City theater company that runs several programs for children and young adults, including original main stage productions and arts education programs. Several TADA! Youth Theater participants of the ensemble have gained publicity since participating in the program, including Amar Ramasar, Josh Peck, Kerry Washington, Azealia Banks, Jordan Peele, Ricki Lake, and Mizuo Peck.

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Ensemble members of TADA! Youth Theater performed the song "Live and Let Live" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. It is a song from the Off-Broadway musical "Up to You", with book and music by Eric Rockwell, and lyrics by JoAnne Bogart. The musical had its world premiere at TADA! Youth Theater, in 2012. Like all musicals performed by TADA! Youth Theater, "Up to You" is a professionally produced musical performed for kids, by kids — and dealing with topics relevant to kids and their experiences.

"Up to You" takes place in 1977, during elections for the student council at Hamilton High. It examines several relevant issues facing young people today, including peer acceptance, verbal bullying, stereotyping based on activities you take part in, and wanting to be popular. The musical also explores political campaigning: making and keeping promises.

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Trevor Braun is a New York based performer for stage and screen. Originally from Fair Lawn, New Jersey, he has been acting since the young age of three and started working professionally at seven. On Broadway, he has appeared in "Billy Elliot: The Musical", "The Little Mermaid", and "Beauty and the Beast".

Braun can also be seen in the television series "Dash & Lily" (Netflix), "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" (Amazon Prime Video) and "Curb Your Enthusiasm" (HBO), as well as the film… Show more

Trevor Braun is a New York based performer for stage and screen. Originally from Fair Lawn, New Jersey, he has been acting since the young age of three and started working professionally at seven. On Broadway, he has appeared in "Billy Elliot: The Musical", "The Little Mermaid", and "Beauty and the Beast".

Braun can also be seen in the television series "Dash & Lily" (Netflix), "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" (Amazon Prime Video) and "Curb Your Enthusiasm" (HBO), as well as the film "Arranged" (2007).

On June 20, 2016, Broadway Sings for Pride premiered its 6th anniversary benefit concert "Ovation" in New York City, at Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. The show honored Tyler Clementi Foundation and AIDS pioneer and activist Ruth Coker Burks. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth, and support these young people, so that they may reach their full potential.

Braun performed the song "Wig in a Box" during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer. "Wig in a Box" is a song from the rock musical "Hedwig and the Angry Inch", with music and lyrics by Stephen Trask and a book by John Cameron Mitchell. The musical follows Hedwig Robinson, a genderqueer East German singer of a fictional rock and roll band. The story draws on Mitchell's life as the child of a United States Army major general who once commanded the United Statest sector of occupied West Berlin.

The musical opened Off-Broadway in 1998, and won the Obie Award and Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Off-Broadway Musical.

In 2014, the show saw its first Broadway incarnation, opening that April at the Belasco Theatre and winning the year's Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical.

Videographer: Shefik Show less

Kelly Price is a R&B and gospel singer. Beginning her career in 1992, she performed backing vocals for Mariah Carey on multiple songs, including Carey's Billboard Hot 100 number one singles "All I Want for Christmas Is You" and "Fantasy". In addition, she rose to wider prominence in 1997 following her guest appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 number-one single "Mo Money Mo Problems" by The Notorious B.I.G.

In 1998, Price was featured on Whitney Houston's song "Heartbreak Hotel" alongside… Show more

Kelly Price is a R&B and gospel singer. Beginning her career in 1992, she performed backing vocals for Mariah Carey on multiple songs, including Carey's Billboard Hot 100 number one singles "All I Want for Christmas Is You" and "Fantasy". In addition, she rose to wider prominence in 1997 following her guest appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 number-one single "Mo Money Mo Problems" by The Notorious B.I.G.

In 1998, Price was featured on Whitney Houston's song "Heartbreak Hotel" alongside Faith Evans, which earned a nomination for a Grammy Award.

Price is a 9-time Grammy Award nominee.

"Unsung" is a documentary program that airs on the television network TV One. It uncovers the stories behind well-known R&B and hip-hop music artists, bands, or groups which were ranked on the Billboard music charts with a string of hits, only to have their career derailed by a major crisis that caused them to be essentially unappreciated by later generations. The series is produced by A. Smith & Co. Productions.

On June 1, 2016, "Unsung" premiered with Season 9, Episode 1, featuring the story of Price. Shefik licensed to "Unsung" a photo he captured and archived during the late 1990s, of which he never shared publicly before in almost 20 years. Back in the 1990s, Shefik worked as a publicist, and Island Records was among his clients (the record company that Price was signed at the time).

This now historic photo comprised of Price, along with music mogul and 3-time Grammy Award winner Sean "Diddy" Combs, music producer and Grammy Award winner Stevie J., and 2-time Grammy Award winner Hezekiah Walker. Shefik captured the photo during a private studio recording session that he was personally invited to attend.

Additionally, Shefik was tasked by the production team of "Unsung" to film exterior clips of Price's family church in Queens, New York, which was then used as B-roll footage during the broadcasted episode.

Credits

- Producer: Nandi Pointer
- Footage/Images Courtesy: Shefik Show less

In 2015, The Washington Center commemorated 40 years of transformational higher education at their annual gala, "40 & Forward".

The gala raised nearly $500,000 for student scholarships that was offered for hundreds of students throughout the 2015-2016 academic year. Serving as master of ceremonies was Teresa Rodriguez, host of "Aquí y Ahora" on Univision.

The audience — which included more than 50 The Washington Center alumni and representatives of more than 30 colleges — also… Show more

In 2015, The Washington Center commemorated 40 years of transformational higher education at their annual gala, "40 & Forward".

The gala raised nearly $500,000 for student scholarships that was offered for hundreds of students throughout the 2015-2016 academic year. Serving as master of ceremonies was Teresa Rodriguez, host of "Aquí y Ahora" on Univision.

The audience — which included more than 50 The Washington Center alumni and representatives of more than 30 colleges — also heard from several distinguished leaders whom The Washington Center honored for their commitments to leadership, professional achievement, civic engagement, and lifetime achievement.

United States Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL) spoke about the importance of internships to his own remarkable political career, as he accepted the Pillar Award for Professional Achievement.

Before each award was announced, The Washington Center President Michael Smith recognized each decade of The Washington Center history, by recognizing the alumni from each decade. The following honorees from each decade were recognized:

- The Honorable Dennis Cardoza (1979)
- Nancy Jacobson (1982)
- Dr. Hassan Tetteh (1993)
- Kristin Soltis Anderson (2005)

Shefik supplied B-roll footage of Dr. Tetteh that was utilized in The Washington Center's highlight video for the gala. Shefik previously captured the footage during an actual surgery procedure, where he accompanied Dr. Tetteh throughout the entire process, traveling across multiple states in the United States.

The Washington Center is the largest and most established student internship program in Washington, D.C. Since their founding, the organization has helped more than 60,000 young people translate their college majors into career paths. They use their scale and expertise to customize each student's experience to be truly transformative.

B-Roll Footage: Shefik Show less

"Middle of the Night Show" is an American late-night television series. The series premiered on MTV on October 8, 2015. "Middle of the Night Show" does not need a studio or an audience to make a late-night comedy. It just needs an unwitting celebrity woken up to host a show.

"Middle of the Night Show" is a fast-paced re-imagining of the late-night comedy talk show that brings it out of the studio and onto the streets of New York City. Each night, the show's crew and live band crash the… Show more

"Middle of the Night Show" is an American late-night television series. The series premiered on MTV on October 8, 2015. "Middle of the Night Show" does not need a studio or an audience to make a late-night comedy. It just needs an unwitting celebrity woken up to host a show.

"Middle of the Night Show" is a fast-paced re-imagining of the late-night comedy talk show that brings it out of the studio and onto the streets of New York City. Each night, the show's crew and live band crash the bedroom of an unsuspecting celebrity who is forced to host a talk show on the spot without any preparation and on very little sleep. Brian Murphy serves as Producer, as well as the celebrity's Co-Host.

In Season 1, Episode 2 of "Middle of the Night Show", Murphy and the crew wake up platinum recording artist Jordin Sparks and force her to host a talk show with no preparation. Jordin meets an imposter, interviews Elmo, and competes against Murphy in a singing competition. They call it a night with a surprising pizza game.

Sparks rose to fame in 2007, after winning the 6th season of "American Idol" at age 17, becoming the youngest winner in the series' history. Her self-titled debut studio album, released later that year, was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and has sold over 2 million copies worldwide.

Shefik appears with Sparks in the bonus feature of "Middle of the Night Show", where he takes on the whimsical role of Pizza Customer, while the duo Chase & Rose (the alter-egos of comedians Casey Jost and Patrick Noth) perform their humorous song "Pizza".

Jost, a writer and producer of the reality show "Impractical Jokers", is the younger brother of Colin Jost. Colin is a staff writer for NBC's "Saturday Night Live" since 2005, and co-anchor of "Weekend Update" since 2014.

Noth is an Emmy Award nominee. You may have seen him on Comedy Central, IFC, TV Land, NBC, and Nickelodeon.

Credits

- Producer: Brian Murphy
- Pizza Customer: Shefik Show less

"Welcome to Leith" is a 2015 American documentary film directed by Michael Beach Nichols and Christopher K. Walker about white supremacist Craig Cobb's attempt to take over the city Leith, located in North Dakota. After a limited theatrical release on September 9, 2015 by First Run Features, it was broadcast on the PBS television series "Independent Lens" on April 4, 2016. Funding for the documentary was partially raised through a successful Kickstarter campaign, of which Shefik supported… Show more

"Welcome to Leith" is a 2015 American documentary film directed by Michael Beach Nichols and Christopher K. Walker about white supremacist Craig Cobb's attempt to take over the city Leith, located in North Dakota. After a limited theatrical release on September 9, 2015 by First Run Features, it was broadcast on the PBS television series "Independent Lens" on April 4, 2016. Funding for the documentary was partially raised through a successful Kickstarter campaign, of which Shefik supported financially as a backer and received on-screen acknowledgment in the end-credits.

Leith is home to around 20 people, mostly farmers and ranchers living on a prairie backdrop of sky and wheat. In 2012, an outsider moved in and started buying up property. Residents initially welcomed him, figuring he moved to be closer to the oil fields, but American-Canadian neo-Nazi Cobb had other motives. Posting on white nationalist forums that he found the perfect place to start an all-white enclave, Cobb implored other white supremacists to move to Leith and help take over the town's government. Cobb was intent on building a community of people sharing his white nationalist ideology and gaining the electoral majority. Cobb purchased 12 plots of land in that endeavor.

Meanwhile, far from the prairies of North Dakota, Ryan Lenz, an investigator from Southern Poverty Law Center in Montgomery, Alabama, discovers Cobb's posts and informs Leith's mayor, Ryan Schock. Schock, a young rancher and family man who has lived in Leith all his life, is stunned by the news — and the ensuing media firestorm as tensions in Leith threaten to boil over into violence.

"Welcome to Leith" details the clash between the locals and Cobb's band of white supremacists, as they challenge his vision for the future of the place they call home.

On July 25, 2017, "Welcome to Leith" was nominated for an Emmy Award for Best Documentary by the News & Documentary Emmy Awards.

Special Thanks: Shefik Show less

An episode of "Mini Hustle" on Little Club Heads. In this episode, child actor Douglas Baldeo is featured. He was a cast member in "Kinky Boots" on Broadway, playing the role of Young Lola. He also appeared in Season 10 of "America's Got Talent" on NBC.

Camera Operator: Shefik

'The Death of "Superman Lives": What Happened?' is a 2015 documentary written and directed by Jon Schnepp and produced by Holly Payne. It chronicles the behind-the-scenes events surrounding the canceled Tim Burton film "Superman Lives". Funding for the documentary was partially raised through a successful Kickstarter campaign, of which Shefik supported financially as a backer and received on-screen acknowledgment in the end-credits. The documentary premiered on May 1, 2015, and was released… Show more

'The Death of "Superman Lives": What Happened?' is a 2015 documentary written and directed by Jon Schnepp and produced by Holly Payne. It chronicles the behind-the-scenes events surrounding the canceled Tim Burton film "Superman Lives". Funding for the documentary was partially raised through a successful Kickstarter campaign, of which Shefik supported financially as a backer and received on-screen acknowledgment in the end-credits. The documentary premiered on May 1, 2015, and was released through VOD on July 9, 2015.

The documentary is a behind-the-scenes look at the 1996–1998 pre-production of "Superman Lives", an intended reboot of the Superman film series based on the 1992 DC comic "The Death of Superman", that was canceled only three weeks before filming was set to begin in April 1998. In the film, Schnepp interviews several people involved with the development of the project and features numerous conceptual artwork and designs intended for the visual look of "Superman Lives".

Burton was planned to direct the film and Jon Peters would produce it. Nicolas Cage was to star as Superman, while Christopher Walken was rumored to play Brainiac. Casting choices considered for Lois Lane were Courteney Cox and Sandra Bullock. Characters such as Lex Luthor and Doomsday were also planned to be included.

According to writer Kevin Smith, Peters did not want Superman to fly or wear his red and blue costume, and Peters wanted Superman to fight a giant spider for the finale. When Peters was questioned in an interview about it, he denied the claims, saying they were false. But, he stated the giant spider finale was true and would have been an amazing sequence in the movie. Peters also stated that he wanted to make a Superman movie that had not been done before, wanted to run through Superman's brain, and had chosen Cage as Superman, because he did not want someone "pink" and someone "for the street".

Thanks / Kickstarter Backer: Shefik Show less

Whoopi Goldberg is an actress, comedian, author, and television personality. A recipient of numerous accolades, she is one of 16 entertainers to win the EGOT, which includes an Emmy Award, a Grammy Award, an Academy Award, and a Tony Award.

In 1983 and 1984, Goldberg first came to national prominence with her one-woman show "Moms", in which she portrayed Moms Mabley. Goldberg first performed the show in Berkeley, California. The Oakland Museum of California preserves a poster… Show more

Whoopi Goldberg is an actress, comedian, author, and television personality. A recipient of numerous accolades, she is one of 16 entertainers to win the EGOT, which includes an Emmy Award, a Grammy Award, an Academy Award, and a Tony Award.

In 1983 and 1984, Goldberg first came to national prominence with her one-woman show "Moms", in which she portrayed Moms Mabley. Goldberg first performed the show in Berkeley, California. The Oakland Museum of California preserves a poster advertising the show. Goldberg has stated that her influences include Mabley.

Mabley was a pioneering stand-up comedian and actress. She began her career on the theater stage in the 1920s and became a veteran entertainer of the Chitlin' Circuit of African-American vaudeville. Mabley pushed the boundaries of comedy, by tackling topics such as gender, sex, and racism.

Mabley was the subject of "Whoopi Goldberg Presents Moms Mabley" a documentary which was first broadcast on HBO, on November 18, 2013. In 2014, the documentary was nominated for two Emmy Awards at the 66th Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards (Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special, and Outstanding Narrator). Funding for the documentary was partially raised through a successful Kickstarter campaign, of which Shefik supported financially as a backer and received on-screen acknowledgment (Special Thanks) in the end-credits.

The documentary includes vintage clips and recordings of Mabley, as well as recent interviews with some of the world's top comedians, including Goldberg, Eddie Murphy, Joan Rivers, Kathy Griffin, Robert Klein, and Bill Cosby. A true passion project for first-time director Goldberg, the documentary shows Mabley's historical significance and profound influence as a performer vastly ahead of her time.

Goldberg also served as Producer of the documentary, along with 3-time Emmy Award winner George Schlatter as Executive Producer, and Emmy Award nominee Tom Leonardis as Producer.

Special Thanks: Shefik Show less

Technologies: Joomla

LG Electronics is a South Korean multi-national electronics company headquartered in Yeouido-dong, Seoul, South Korea. LG Electronics is a part of LG Corporation, the fourth largest chaebol in South Korea, and often considered as the pinnacle of LG Corporation. LG Electronics is also the world's second largest television manufacturer behind Samsung Electronics.

As a means to educate consumers regarding the technologies associated with 3D television (3D TV), LG Electronics initially… Show more

LG Electronics is a South Korean multi-national electronics company headquartered in Yeouido-dong, Seoul, South Korea. LG Electronics is a part of LG Corporation, the fourth largest chaebol in South Korea, and often considered as the pinnacle of LG Corporation. LG Electronics is also the world's second largest television manufacturer behind Samsung Electronics.

As a means to educate consumers regarding the technologies associated with 3D television (3D TV), LG Electronics initially published a website in 2011, titled "3D Entertainment Now" (http://www.3dentertainmentnow.com). Shefik developed this website as a UI Developer at Publicis Modem, where he incorporated technologies such as PHP and WordPress.

As of 2017, most 3D television sets and services are no longer available from manufacturers.

According the website information published in 2011, not all 3D TV images are created equal. Be sure you understand the differences between the two types of technologies and what they mean (Active TV vs. Passive TV).

Active 3D works this way: An electronic signal is paired to active shutter 3D glasses from the television, and it opens and closes (or "shutters") the left and right lenses of the glasses rapidly to match the images on the screen. In other words, they dim the left lens and then the right lens in quick succession. The brain sees the fast-moving alternating frames as 3D. The complicated technology can make the active eyeglasses expensive and heavy.

Passive 3D operates by separating images for each eye and then converging them to deliver the 3D images. Different kinds of light are blocked in each eye and this creates the illusion of depth. This allows the 3D passive glasses to be significantly more affordable and lighter than active glasses. Some say the passive 3D TV picture resolution quality is not as good as an active 3D TV, although recent 3D TV tests have shown consumer preferences for the passive 3D TV picture image.

Credits

- UI Developer: Shefik Show less

Sanofi Pasteur is the vaccines division of the French multinational pharmaceutical company Sanofi. Sanofi Pasteur is the largest company in the world devoted entirely to vaccines. Sanofi Pasteur provides more than 1 billion doses of vaccine each year, making it possible to immunize more than 500 million people across the globe. A world leader in the vaccine industry, Sanofi Pasteur offers the broadest range of vaccines protecting against 20 infectious diseases. The company's heritage, to create… Show more

Sanofi Pasteur is the vaccines division of the French multinational pharmaceutical company Sanofi. Sanofi Pasteur is the largest company in the world devoted entirely to vaccines. Sanofi Pasteur provides more than 1 billion doses of vaccine each year, making it possible to immunize more than 500 million people across the globe. A world leader in the vaccine industry, Sanofi Pasteur offers the broadest range of vaccines protecting against 20 infectious diseases. The company's heritage, to create vaccines that protect life, dates back more than a century.

Sanofi is a French multinational pharmaceutical and healthcare company.

As part of a partnership with March of Dimes, Sanofi Pasteur initially published a website in 2009, titled "Sounds of Pertussis" (http://www.soundsofpertussis.com). In 2011, Shefik developed an iteration this website as a UI Developer at Publicis Modem, where he incorporated technologies such as ColdFusion and Flash. The website was intended for United States residents only.

The Sounds of Pertussis campaign is a national education campaign from March of Dimes and Sanofi Pasteur to help raise awareness about the potential dangers of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, and the importance of adult tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccination. As part of the campaign, actress, singer, and mother Jennifer Lopez helped launch a public service announcement (PSA) to raise awareness about how adults can help prevent contracting and spreading pertussis to babies.

Started in 2009, the campaign continues to help educate parents, grandparents, caregivers and others in close contact with infants about the importance of getting vaccinated with the adult Tdap vaccine to help protect themselves and to help stop the spread of the disease to infants.

The Office of the Mayor of New York City proclaimed August 11, 2011 as Pertussis Awareness Day, which falls during National Immunization Awareness Month.

Credits

- UI Developer: Shefik Show less

Technologies: Drupal

Technologies: WordPress

Condé Nast is a global mass media company founded in 1909 by Condé Montrose Nast (1873-1942), and owned by Advance Publications. The company's media brands attract more than 72 million consumers in print, 394 million in digital and 454 million across social platforms. These include Vogue, The New Yorker, Condé Nast Traveler, GQ, Glamour, Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair, Pitchfork, WIRED, and Bon Appétit, among many others.

GQ (formerly Gentlemen's Quarterly and Apparel Arts) is an… Show more

Condé Nast is a global mass media company founded in 1909 by Condé Montrose Nast (1873-1942), and owned by Advance Publications. The company's media brands attract more than 72 million consumers in print, 394 million in digital and 454 million across social platforms. These include Vogue, The New Yorker, Condé Nast Traveler, GQ, Glamour, Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair, Pitchfork, WIRED, and Bon Appétit, among many others.

GQ (formerly Gentlemen's Quarterly and Apparel Arts) is an American international monthly men's magazine based in New York City and founded in 1931. The publication focuses on fashion, style, and culture for men, though articles on food, movies, fitness, sex, music, travel, celebrities, sports, technology, and books are also featured.

Since 1957 (as Gentleman's Quarterly) and 1967 (as GQ), the publication has inspired men to look sharper and live smarter with its unparalleled coverage of style, culture, and beyond. From award-winning writing and photography to binge-ready videos to electric live events, GQ meets millions of modern men where they live, creating the moments that create conversations.

As part of a co-branding partnership with Valspar Paint, GQ published a blog titled "The Inside Man" (https://www.gq.com/theinsideman). Shefik developed this blog as a Web Developer, where he incorporated technologies such as PHP and MySQL, utilizing the content management system WordPress. Valspar is currently a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Sherwin-Williams Company. Founded in 1866, the Sherwin-Williams Company is a global leader in the manufacture, development, distribution, and sale of paints, coatings and related products to professional, industrial, commercial, and retail customers.

The blog, written by Brett Fahlgren and Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan, was well-received.

Credits

- Web Developer: Shefik Show less

Condé Nast is a global mass media company founded in 1909 by Condé Montrose Nast. The company's media brands attract more than 72 million consumers in print, 394 million in digital and 454 million across social platforms. These include Vogue, The New Yorker, Condé Nast Traveler, GQ, Glamour, Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair, Pitchfork, WIRED, and Bon Appétit, among many others.

WIRED is where tomorrow is realized. It is the essential source of information and ideas that make sense of a… Show more

Condé Nast is a global mass media company founded in 1909 by Condé Montrose Nast. The company's media brands attract more than 72 million consumers in print, 394 million in digital and 454 million across social platforms. These include Vogue, The New Yorker, Condé Nast Traveler, GQ, Glamour, Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair, Pitchfork, WIRED, and Bon Appétit, among many others.

WIRED is where tomorrow is realized. It is the essential source of information and ideas that make sense of a world in constant transformation. The WIRED conversation illuminates how technology is changing every aspect of our lives — from culture to business, science to design. The breakthroughs and innovations that WIRED uncovers lead to new ways of thinking.

As part of a co-branding partnership with Continental Airlines, WIRED published a blog starting on March 27, 2010, titled "Mile-High Innovation Tech for Travelers". Shefik developed this blog as a Web Developer, where he incorporated technologies such as PHP and MySQL, utilizing the content management system WordPress. Continental Airlines was a major airline in the United States that operated from 1934 until 2012 when it merged with United Airlines.

The blog, written by Robert McGarvey, was well-received. McGarvey has covered technology and travel for over 20 years, for dozens of national magazines and newspapers. He authored "How to Dotcom" in 2001, he wrote "The Techno Traveler" column for Biz Travel for several years, and he blogged for Internet Evolution and CIO Update.

In the virtual age, face-to-face meetings are more critical than ever. Business travel is on the rise, with ground breaking technologies enhancing — not eliminating — in-person communication. Readers joined McGarvey, as he traveled the United States to various technology conferences, from CITA to MobilWare, in search of the innovations poised to impact the business travel experience.

Credits

- Web Developer: Shefik Show less

Technologies: WordPress

The 61st Primetime Emmy Awards were held on September 20, 2009, broadcast on CBS. It took place at Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, California. On July 13, 2009, the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced that Neil Patrick Harris would host the ceremony, which drew 13.3 million viewers.

After teaching himself computer programming in the 2000s, Shefik secured his first position in the field of Internet Technology, as Technical Producer at the internationally renowned magazine TIME… Show more

The 61st Primetime Emmy Awards were held on September 20, 2009, broadcast on CBS. It took place at Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, California. On July 13, 2009, the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced that Neil Patrick Harris would host the ceremony, which drew 13.3 million viewers.

After teaching himself computer programming in the 2000s, Shefik secured his first position in the field of Internet Technology, as Technical Producer at the internationally renowned magazine TIME and its website time.com. His primary duties involved developing web-based applications, which served millions of website visitors daily. In addition, Shefik was tasked with conducting regular training sessions with key members of the editorial staff, to educate them on the proper usage and best practices of the technology that Shefik developed and maintained on a daily basis. As such, he engaged with staff across TIME's international bureaus, and aligned himself with the understanding of cultural conditions.

Coincidentally, while Shefik worked at TIME, Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States. Shefik was already in the process of developing a web-based live blogging system for usage at TIME (an idea he proposed). Therefore, the United States presidential election of 2008 served as a launch for the live blogging system. Shefik's development proved to be successful, as his idea came to fruition. For the live blogging system, Shefik incorporated technologies such as PHP and MySQL, utilizing the system WordPress.

Due to the success of the live blogging system, Shefik produced coverage of other highly trafficked events at TIME, some of which also became cross-promotions with the editorial teams at the sister magazines People and Entertainment Weekly. This included Shefik producing TIME's live coverage of the 61st Primetime Emmy Awards, working with journalist James Poniewozik to bring up-to-the-minute commentary.

Credits

- Technical Producer: Shefik Show less

"Ben" is a song written by Don Black and Walter Scharf for the 1972 film of the same name (a spin-off to the 1971 killer rat film "Willard"). It was performed by Lee Montgomery in the film and by Michael Jackson over the closing credits. "Ben" won a Golden Globe for Best Song. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1973.

Though Jackson only had one major role in a feature movie — 1978's "The Wiz" — he worked with top film directors on videos and short films. "The… Show more

"Ben" is a song written by Don Black and Walter Scharf for the 1972 film of the same name (a spin-off to the 1971 killer rat film "Willard"). It was performed by Lee Montgomery in the film and by Michael Jackson over the closing credits. "Ben" won a Golden Globe for Best Song. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1973.

Though Jackson only had one major role in a feature movie — 1978's "The Wiz" — he worked with top film directors on videos and short films. "The Wiz" starred Jackson with Diana Ross, Nipsey Russell, Ted Ross, Mabel King, Theresa Merritt, Thelma Carpenter, Lena Horne, and Richard Pryor. Quincy Jones supervised the adaptation of songs.

"Thriller" is often cited as a pop culture phenomenon and a Halloween anthem. The "Thriller" music video was directed by John Landis and premiered on MTV on December 2, 1983. Many elements of the video have had a lasting impact on popular culture, and it was the first music video inducted into the National Film Registry. It has been named the greatest video of all-time by various publications and readers' polls.

"Michael Jackson's This Is It" is a 2009 American documentary–concert film about Jackson's rehearsals and preparation for the concert series of the same name scheduled to start on July 13, 2009 at The O2 Arena in London, but canceled due to his death 18 days prior on June 25.

The film received generally positive reviews from both critics and Jackson fans. It made $261 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing documentary/concert film of all-time.

Shefik aided in the production of a Jackson retrospective video for TIME, where he was employed as Technical Producer. The video highlighted the theatrical release of "This Is It", as well as Jackson's career in film, including 1986's "Captain EO" (written by George Lucas, and directed by Francis Ford Coppola), 1987's "Bad" (written by Richard Price, and directed by Martin Scorsese), and more.

Production: Shefik Show less

Dubbed the "King of Pop", Michael Jackson is regarded as one of the most significant cultural figures of the 20th century. Over a four-decade career, his contributions to music, dance, and fashion, along with his publicized personal life, made him a global figure in popular culture. Jackson influenced artists across many music genres. Through stage and video performances, he popularized complicated dance moves, such as the moonwalk, to which he gave the name, as well as the robot. He is the… Show more

Dubbed the "King of Pop", Michael Jackson is regarded as one of the most significant cultural figures of the 20th century. Over a four-decade career, his contributions to music, dance, and fashion, along with his publicized personal life, made him a global figure in popular culture. Jackson influenced artists across many music genres. Through stage and video performances, he popularized complicated dance moves, such as the moonwalk, to which he gave the name, as well as the robot. He is the most awarded individual music artist in history.

In 2009, while preparing for a series of comeback concerts, "This Is It", Jackson died from an overdose of propofol administered by his personal physician Conrad Murray, who was convicted in 2011 of involuntary manslaughter.

Jackson is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with estimated sales of over 400 million records worldwide. He had 13 Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles (more than any other male artist in the Hot 100 era) and was the first artist to have a top-ten single in the Billboard Hot 100 in five different decades. His honors include 15 Grammy Awards, 6 Brit Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and 39 Guinness World Records, including the "Most Successful Entertainer of All Time". Jackson's inductions include Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (twice), Vocal Group Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame, Dance Hall of Fame (the only recording artist to be inducted), and Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame.

Ice-T, Spike Lee, Lenny Kravitz, Jeffrey Daniel, Savion Glover, Jeanne White-Ginder (mother of AIDS-stricken Ryan White), Carson Daly, and Clive Davis commented on Jackson's music and its influence on their lives and the world. When Jackson passed away, Shefik was employed as Technical Producer at TIME, and he aided in the production of a Jackson tribute video.

Production: Shefik Show less

Season 8 of "American Idol" premiered on January 13, 2009, and concluded on May 20, 2009. Judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson continued to judge the show's contestants, along with Ryan Seacrest as host. The season introduced Kara DioGuardi as the fourth judge on the panel. It was also Abdul's final season as a judge. Kris Allen, a native of Conway, Arkansas, was announced the winner of the competition on May 20, 2009, defeating runner-up Adam Lambert after nearly 100 million… Show more

Season 8 of "American Idol" premiered on January 13, 2009, and concluded on May 20, 2009. Judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson continued to judge the show's contestants, along with Ryan Seacrest as host. The season introduced Kara DioGuardi as the fourth judge on the panel. It was also Abdul's final season as a judge. Kris Allen, a native of Conway, Arkansas, was announced the winner of the competition on May 20, 2009, defeating runner-up Adam Lambert after nearly 100 million votes were cast. This was the second season where both of the final two contestants had been in the bottom three or two at least once before the finale, with the first being Season 3.

Season 8 saw numerous changes to the format of the show. There were 36 semi-finalists instead of 24, and 13 finalists instead of 12, 9 contestants chosen by the public, and 4 by the judges in a wild card round. Another addition was the "save", which was used on the top 7 results show to veto Matt Giraud's elimination.

Multiple contestants from this season were signed to record deals. This included winner Kris Allen, who was then signed to 19 Entertainment/Jive Records, runner-up Adam Lambert, Danny Gokey, Allison Iraheta, Lil Rounds, Anoop Desai, Michael Sarver, and Mickey Guyton.

The Season 8 finale took place at the Nokia Theatre L.A. Live, located in downtown Los Angeles, California. While Shefik was employed as Technical Producer at TIME, he produced a video highlighting the "American Idol" pre-show red carpet event, where he secured Season 6 runner-up Blake Lewis as the correspondent. On the red carpet, Lewis beatboxed for the crowd and chatted with finalists across various seasons: Brandon Rogers (Season 6), Melinda Doolittle (Season 6), Michael Johns (Season 7), Mandisa (Season 5), Kimberley Locke (Season 2), Syesha Mercado (Season 7), and Kristy Lee Cook (Season 7).

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The 81st Academy Awards ceremony, presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, honored the best films of 2008 and took place on February 22, 2009. It was televised by ABC, directed by Roger Goodman, and hosted by Hugh Jackman.

The telecast garnered almost 37 million viewers in the United States.

After teaching himself computer programming in the 2000s, Shefik secured his first position in the field of Internet Technology, as Technical Producer at the… Show more

The 81st Academy Awards ceremony, presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, honored the best films of 2008 and took place on February 22, 2009. It was televised by ABC, directed by Roger Goodman, and hosted by Hugh Jackman.

The telecast garnered almost 37 million viewers in the United States.

After teaching himself computer programming in the 2000s, Shefik secured his first position in the field of Internet Technology, as Technical Producer at the internationally renowned magazine TIME and its website time.com. His primary duties involved developing web-based applications, which served millions of website visitors daily. In addition, Shefik was tasked with conducting regular training sessions with key members of the editorial staff, to educate them on the proper usage and best practices of the technology that Shefik developed and maintained on a daily basis.

While Shefik worked at TIME, Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States. Shefik was already in the process of developing a web-based live blogging system for usage at TIME (an idea he proposed). Therefore, the United States presidential election of 2008 served as a launch for the live blogging system. Shefik's development proved to be successful, as his idea came to fruition. Not only did he produce the live blog coverage for the presidential and vice-presidential debates, but also for the historic election night coverage itself, where Obama was hailed as the 1st United States President of African-American descent.

Due to the success of the live blogging system, Shefik produced coverage of other highly trafficked events at TIME, some of which also became cross-promotions with the editorial teams at the sister magazines People and Entertainment Weekly. This included Shefik producing TIME's live coverage of the 81st Academy Awards, working with journalists Kate Betts, Richard Corliss, and James Poniewozik.

Credits

- Technical Producer: Shefik Show less

The 66th Golden Globe Awards, honoring the best in film and television of 2008, was broadcast by NBC on January 11, 2009, in Beverly Hills, California. Produced by Dick Clark Productions, the broadcast was watched by approximately 14.6 million viewers.

After teaching himself computer programming in the 2000s, Shefik secured his first position in the field of Internet Technology, as Technical Producer at the internationally renowned magazine TIME and its website time.com. His primary… Show more

The 66th Golden Globe Awards, honoring the best in film and television of 2008, was broadcast by NBC on January 11, 2009, in Beverly Hills, California. Produced by Dick Clark Productions, the broadcast was watched by approximately 14.6 million viewers.

After teaching himself computer programming in the 2000s, Shefik secured his first position in the field of Internet Technology, as Technical Producer at the internationally renowned magazine TIME and its website time.com. His primary duties involved developing web-based applications, which served millions of website visitors daily. In addition, Shefik was tasked with conducting regular training sessions with key members of the editorial staff, to educate them on the proper usage and best practices of the technology that Shefik developed and maintained on a daily basis. As such, he engaged with staff across TIME's international bureaus, and aligned himself with the understanding of cultural conditions.

Coincidentally, while Shefik worked at TIME, Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States. Shefik was already in the process of developing a web-based live blogging system for usage at TIME (an idea he proposed). Therefore, the United States presidential election of 2008 served as a launch for the live blogging system. Shefik's development proved to be successful, as his idea came to fruition. For the live blogging system, Shefik incorporated technologies such as PHP and MySQL, utilizing the content management system WordPress.

Due to the success of the live blogging system, Shefik produced coverage of other highly trafficked events at TIME, some of which also became cross-promotions with the editorial teams at the sister magazines People and Entertainment Weekly. This included Shefik producing TIME's live coverage of the 66th Golden Globe Awards, working with journalists Kate Betts, Richard Corliss, and James Poniewozik to bring up-to-the-minute commentary.

Credits

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George Faison is a celebrated American dancer, choreographer, teacher, and theater producer. He made history in 1975, when he became the first African-American to win a Tony Award for Best Choreography for 'The Wiz: The Super Soul Musical "Wonderful Wizard of Oz"'. Faison is also an Emmy Award nominee.

"The Wiz" is a musical with music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls (and others) and book by William F. Brown. It is a retelling of L. Frank Baum's children's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz"… Show more

George Faison is a celebrated American dancer, choreographer, teacher, and theater producer. He made history in 1975, when he became the first African-American to win a Tony Award for Best Choreography for 'The Wiz: The Super Soul Musical "Wonderful Wizard of Oz"'. Faison is also an Emmy Award nominee.

"The Wiz" is a musical with music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls (and others) and book by William F. Brown. It is a retelling of L. Frank Baum's children's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" (1900) in the context of contemporary African-American culture.

The 1975 Broadway production won 7 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. It was an early example of Broadway's mainstream acceptance of works with an all Black cast.

A film adaptation was released in 1978, with Ted Ross and Mabel King reprising their roles, alongside Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell, Theresa Merritt, Thelma Carpenter, Lena Horne, and Richard Pryor. A live television production of the stage version, "The Wiz Live!", was broadcast on NBC on December 3, 2015.

On June 26, 2017, Broadway Sings For Pride premiered its 7th anniversary benefit concert "Unstoppable" in New York City. This milestone event was filled with singing (from pop to Broadway), stories, special celebrity guests, and more. Proceeds of the event were donated to Tyler Clementi Foundation and Orlando's Contigo Fund. Broadway Sings for Pride is a multiple award-winning, non-for-profit organization that brings together Broadway talent, activists, and celebrities, to educate the public, raise awareness of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

The event featured a special cast reunion of "The Wiz", comprising the original Broadway cast and creative team, as well as members of the National Tour, Broadway Revival, 40th Anniversary Celebration Concert, and the live television production. Attendees saluted Faison with an ovation during the benefit concert, where Shefik served as Videographer, as well as a featured Speaker.

Videographer: Shefik Show less

"Viva Variety" was an American sketch comedy series that aired on Comedy Central from April 1997 to December 1999. The series satirized European variety shows.

The show starred Thomas Lennon as Meredith Laupin, Kerri Kenney as the former Mrs. (Agatha) Laupin, and Michael Ian Black as Johnny Blue Jeans. In addition to comedy sketches, the show featured musical guests and various performers. Periodically, a troupe of women called "The Swimsuit Squad" would dance much like the "Fly Girls"… Show more

"Viva Variety" was an American sketch comedy series that aired on Comedy Central from April 1997 to December 1999. The series satirized European variety shows.

The show starred Thomas Lennon as Meredith Laupin, Kerri Kenney as the former Mrs. (Agatha) Laupin, and Michael Ian Black as Johnny Blue Jeans. In addition to comedy sketches, the show featured musical guests and various performers. Periodically, a troupe of women called "The Swimsuit Squad" would dance much like the "Fly Girls" on "In Living Color".

Episode 11 of Season 2 featured 5-time Grammy Award winner Dionne Warwick and Chuck Jackson, performing the duet "If I Let Myself Go", which Jackson released on his 1997 album "I'll Never Get Over You" on Wave Entertainment. The song was first released in 1985 by Evelyn "Champagne" King, on her album "A Long Time Coming". Jackson teamed with longtime friend Warwick to record "If I Let Myself Go", arranged as a duet by Charles Wallert.

The recording received critical acclaim and charted at number 19 on the Gavin Adult Contemporary Charts. Jackson followed with "What Goes Around, Comes Around", another Wallert production and composition, and reached number 13 on the Gavin Charts. During 1997 and 1998, Shefik served as a national publicist for both Warwick and Jackson, and Shefik secured the talent booking with Comedy Central for their appearance on "Viva Variety". At the time, Shefik was employed at the public relations firm Double XXposure.

Jackson is an American R&B singer who was one of the first artists to record material by Burt Bacharach and Hal David successfully. He has performed with moderate success since 1961. His hits include "I Don't Want to Cry", "Any Day Now", "I Keep Forgettin'", and "All Over the World". Jackson is also the co-writer of the song "Where Do Broken Hearts Go" (along with Frank Wildhorn), recorded by Whitney Houston for her second studio album, "Whitney" (1987).

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"All That" is a sketch comedy television series created by Brian Robbins and Mike Tollin. The series originally aired on Nickelodeon from April 16, 1994 to October 22, 2005, lasting 10 seasons, and was produced by Tollin/Robbins Productions and by Schneider's Bakery in Season 10.

The series features original short comedic sketches and musical guests aimed toward a young audience. Its sketches parody contemporary culture and are performed by a cast of child and teen actors. Early episodes… Show more

"All That" is a sketch comedy television series created by Brian Robbins and Mike Tollin. The series originally aired on Nickelodeon from April 16, 1994 to October 22, 2005, lasting 10 seasons, and was produced by Tollin/Robbins Productions and by Schneider's Bakery in Season 10.

The series features original short comedic sketches and musical guests aimed toward a young audience. Its sketches parody contemporary culture and are performed by a cast of child and teen actors. Early episodes were taped at Nickelodeon Studios at Universal Orlando Resort, and then moved to Hollywood at the theatre Nickelodeon on Sunset, where other Nickelodeon shows, such as "The Amanda Show", "Kenan & Kel", and "Drake & Josh" were filmed.

"All That" went on to become a fixture on Nickelodeon for over a decade, and has received acclaim for its diverse cast and impact on children's television. The series has spun off several members of the cast in their own Nickelodeon television series with varying levels of success.

In 2019, Robbins, the current President of Nickelodeon and Co-Creator of the original series, announced a revival of the series with original cast member Kenan Thompson serving as Executive Producer, with Kel Mitchell later confirmed in the same role.

Episode 12 of Season 3 featured R&B recording artist Mona Lisa, performing the remix to her single "Just Wanna Please U (Stevie J. Version)", which was from her debut album "11-20-79" (1996), released on Island Black Music / Island Records. Multi-platinum recording group The LOX appears on the remix, courtesy of Bad Boy Entertainment. During 1997 and 1998, Shefik served as a national publicist for various recording artists on Island Black Music, and he secured the talent booking with Nickelodeon for Mona Lisa's appearance on "All That". At the time, Shefik was employed at the public relations firm Double XXposure. Golden Globe Award nominee John Leguizamo also appeared the same episode with Mona Lisa.

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