School of Drama Presents Annual Cabaret Evening
“We Tell the Story” Features Acclaimed Composer Stephen Flaherty and Music Theater Ensemble
By Erin Keane Scott / 412-268-2068 / ekscott@andrew.cmu.eduand Pam Wigley / 412-268-1047 / pwigley@andrew.cmu.edu
Stephen Flaherty, a Pittsburgh native and Tony Award-winning musical theater composer best known for his Broadway scores for “Ragtime,” “Once on this Island” and “Seussical,” will be returning home Oct. 18 to accompany Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama’s Music Theater Ensemble for an evening of song at CLO Cabaret at Theater Square.
The annual cabaret allows the Music Theater Ensemble to work and perform with the best songwriters of the musical theater industry. Flaherty is no exception.
Stephen Flaherty is best known for his Broadway scores for "Ragtime," "Once on this Island" and "Seussical."
Since his move to New York City in 1982, Flaherty has continued to make Pittsburgh proud. Garnering an impressive list of both Broadway and film credits, Flaherty has proven the diversity and breadth of his musical talents. His accolades include Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for his music in the animated film “Anastasia.” This year he will be inducted into the Theater Hall of Fame for “Lifetime Achievement in American Theater.”
“I greatly look forward to returning to my hometown of Pittsburgh and to working and performing with the talented students of Carnegie Mellon University,” Flaherty said. “I am excited about getting to know this next generation of talent and having the opportunity to share our work with the people of Pittsburgh.”
Gary Kline, professor of voice in the School of Drama, said he is excited for Flaherty’s return.
“Bringing Stephen Flaherty back home to Pittsburgh to share his immense catalogue of songs is a particular joy. The Flaherty Cabaret will mark the sixth year of bringing illustrious songwriters who not only coach, but also perform their songs with a new generation of singers.”
“I am excited about getting to know this next generation of talent and having the opportunity to share our work with the people of Pittsburgh.” — Stephen Flaherty
Professor Peter Cooke, head of the School of Drama, echoed those sentiments. “Stephen Flaherty is a magician of the musical theater art form.”
Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Food and drink are available throughout the performance in classic cabaret style. Patrons may order from the regular CLO Cabaret menu.
Tickets for the general public are $25 each, with all proceeds benefiting the Senior Showcase, an annual spring event in which graduating School of Drama students travel to New York and Los Angeles to present their work to industry professionals.