Twenty finalists from Darien and neighboring towns gave it their all onstage, in the Darien Arts Center’s June 25 fund-raiser, “Darien’s Got Talent.” Competing acts from Darien, Westport, Norwalk, Stamford, New Canaan and Greenwich included singers, dancers, and musicians that awed both the audience of 500 at Darien High School and the panel of judges, making the selection of winners a difficult one. Tom Giles of Cos Cob, a pianist, took second prize in the adult category for his original composition “Swan Song.”
Accomplished entertainment judges included Columbia Records/Sony Music Senior Vice President John Doelp, producer of Kinky Boots, Jane Bergere, Broadway writer and director Dan Goggin (Nunsense), former professional New York City Ballet dancer Ashlee Knapp Stewart, and renowned jazz musician Joel A. Martin. After much deliberation, six winners were chosen from the adult and children’s categories and were given their awards by the DAC’s Co-President Pam Heckel.
Seasoned director, Carole Claps orchestrated the evening’s performances, with the help of Chris Coogan as musical director and BT McNicholl as Master of Ceremonies.
150 guests, including sponsors, winners and judges attended the exclusive post show party, “Darien’s Got Taste,” enjoying outstanding cuisine, entertainment by pianist Bob Rissolo, and celebrating with winners.
Baywater Properties, Dana Fead, Realtor, EastCoast Irrigation, the Eenkema van Dijk family, Goodnow Investment Group, Darien Rowayton Bank and Andrew Stefanou Salon and Spa sponsored the fund-raiser, which supports the DAC’s efforts in providing opportunities for all ages in dance, visual arts, music and theatre.
For more information, visit darienarts.org or call 203-655-8683.
