Tickets are on sale for “An Evening of Shining Stars,” a special needs talent show set for May 3. The eighth annual event, presented by the Shining Stars Network, will be held at the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway at 7 p.m.
Last year, more than 30 special needs performers and their high school “buddies” performed for an audience of more than 1,000. This year’s program titled “The Greatest Show” will feature music from Broadway, movies and a few original songs.
“We are so excited to give our special cast the chance to perform at such a great venue once again,” noted Shining Stars Network co-founder and co-director Sally Curci. “Last year was electric. The audience was wonderful and our performers were just amazing. Our audience has grown each and every year, and our cast continues to grow as we spotlight talent from around Union County. It’s going to be another night to remember.”
Speaking of past shows, Shining Stars Network co-founder and president Mike Curci said, “It was like being on Broadway. It’s a classic venue, our performers showed how talented they are, and the audience support was simply fantastic. We can’t wait to do this again in May. Everyone is very excited.”
“We continue to be inspired by their talents every day,” said Shining Stars co-director Nicole Greene. “This a wonderful chance for our cast to not only learn new songs and choreography, but to build all-important self-confidence and self-esteem, which they take with them away from the stage.”
Adam Fleissner, who has performed in every Shining Stars show, can’t wait to take the stage next month. Fleissner, who will sing a Broadway tune, said, “We meet so many great people.”
Tickets, which range from $15 to $30, can be purchased at www.UCPAC.org/events. The Union County Performing Arts Center is located at 1601 Irving St.
Shining Stars Network Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Union County that “shines the light on” the special needs community by creating inclusive events such as the talent show, dances at local high schools, and an Ambassadors basketball team (a special needs team that travels to play local first responders and other organizations) to help promote inclusion, friendship and understanding.