I took on this fascinating project during the spring and summer of 2016: arranging and orchestrating a Wabash County specific musical by Susie Jones (a retired elementary music teacher in our area). This true story was about Wabash Indiana becoming the first electrically lighted city in the world (yes, even before Paris)! I also ended up taking on the role of music director and conductor when the person who was originally going to do it encountered health problems. It was a big, exhausting undertaking, but the directors and cast members were a pure joy. I learned a lot from the experience and made some new friends, too!
July 5, 2017 at 9:22 am
It was an experience working with Debra on this musical. Having spent most of my time doing musicals on Broadway, it was not easy to “blend in ” with the locals. However, I appreciated the opportunity to show my skills and I am sure the cast appreciated the time I spent showing them what needed fixing. I was a little put back that no one gave me an autograph session, but I understand rubbing elbows with a “superstar” like myself was probably a new experience for many. I am back on Broadway helping my good friend Bette Midler clean up some things in the work she is currently performing. I went ahead and donated my fee to the Honeywell Center and felt that “Lighting up the Town” was a great summer project. Colonel Bruner
July 5, 2017 at 9:44 am
Tom — you never change! I’m sure Bette is thrilled to benefit from your vast experience on Broadway Street in Fort Wayne, Indiana. I love your quirky sense of humor, sir! It definitely helped energize me during some pretty long rehearsal days.