Grote to perform Broadway classics Feb. 23
Donna Grote has not performed on Broadway, but she’s doing a concert filled with tunes that have been.
Grote and Raintree Arts Council will present “A Salute to Broadway” at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23, at The Apple Shed in Clarksville. Tickets, which will be available at the door, are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and kids.
“I love musicals,” Grote said. “The songs are so fun to do. They tell a story through singing and express emotion.”
The list of 20 songs in two acts is impressive, featuring famous tunes from the most beloved musicals of the last 80 years. Grote gives away one title in discussing the mix.
“I hope to bring a little taste of Broadway to Clarksville,” she said. “There will be some older, classic shows and some newer, more ‘Popular’ ones, as well. Something for everyone.”
While Grote will solo most of the time, she’s also getting a little help. Tom Wallace of Louisiana will join her for “You’re the One That I Want” from “Grease” and Angela Maier of Bowling Green will step in on “I Will Follow Him” from “Sister Act.”
For most selections, Grote will sing to recorded backing music, but Jeff Hickerson of Hannibal will play piano on a “Mary Poppins” medley of “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” and “Spoonful of Sugar.” Props will be used on some numbers.
Grote’s love of musicals began in childhood.
“I remember watching ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and being drawn to listening to Judy Garland singing and how she could do that at such a young age,” Grote recalls.
As with so many, she’s impressed by the talent Broadway showcases. Two of her favorites are Cynthia Erivo from “Wicked” and Hugh Jackman in the movie “The Greatest Showman,” which is coming to The Great Bright Way soon.
“I have not been to a Broadway show yet, but I definitely plan to go very soon,” Grote said.
Then there’s a pause, and she channels “Les Miserables” in completing her answer.
“I can’t imagine how exciting it would be to sing on Broadway, but ‘I Dreamed a Dream.’”
And, in exiting the interview, she just can’t help but pay homage to another Garland classic.
“So, Meet Me in Clarksville on Feb. 23.”
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Donna Grote will perform “A Salute to Broadway” at 2 p.m. Feb. 23 at The Apple Shed in Clarksville. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and students.