42 The Queens Courier • november 5, 2015 FOR BREAKING NEWS VISIT www.qns.com s people making a buzz Fire Commissioner helps Holy Cross mark anniversary Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro was among those honored during the Holy Cross High School 60th anniversary gala on Oct. 30 at Russo’s on the Bay in Howard Beach. Nigro was among five notable individuals presented with the Cross and Anchor Award. Fr. Walter Jenkins, president of the Flushing school, presented the award to Nigro and to Msgr. Jamie Gigantello, vicar of development for the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens; Timothy Cavanaugh, co-founder of the Run to Daylight Education Program; Timothy Lisante, a superintendent for the city Department of Education; and former City Council Speaker Peter Vallone Sr. Proceeds from the gala benefit the Knights Fund, which provides scholarships to Holy Cross students and supports the school’s functions. FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro, Lynn Nigro, & Msgr. Jamie Gigantiello Photos by Samuel Pecoraro Msgr. Jamie Gigantiello & Father Walter Jenkins Coach Timothy Cavanaugh & Dana Cavanaugh Joe Campanella, Kunaal Katagal, Taylor Sele, Dana Cavanaugh, Timothy Cavanaugh FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro & Father Walter Jenkins In a season that has offered “Unfringed” and ongoing visits to Pirate Pete, the Secret Theatre’s current festival is entitled “Flying Solo 3.” It has effectively launched the next phase of artistic director Richard Mazda’s 2015-16 theatrical timetable. The festival consists of more than a dozen monologues with unique and thought-provoking themes. At Friday evening’s solo performances, three original, moving stories were told. To begin, “This Gonna Be on the Test, Miss?” stars writer/performer Ronna J.Levy. She stands and delivers her often funny, sometimes anguished, ultimately uplifting memories. These re-enactments, reinforced by rear wall projections, take us back to her teaching days in high school and junior college. Directed by Nora Ives, the set is mostly black with limited props. What separates this from other school-themed comedy/dramas is Levy’s unwavering sincerity and wit. At times, audience members instinctively raise their hands in what has become a classroom without walls. Definitely a solid A+! The second story, “The Boy from Bantay,” is a fascinating musical confession by writer/performer Jeremy Rafal. The spotlight shines center stage as Rafal enthusiastically auditions for another ethnic role. Apparently asked to share some personal information, the actor begins his presentation. We learn of his impoverished childhood in the distant Philippines and his dashed dreams as a concert pianist. A piano onstage is magnificently played by Rafal. He is brought to tears as he explains that musical subtleties jeopardized his success. Both Josh and Anne Boerman earn behind-the-scenes kudos for this uplifting show. The final appearance is a poignant, very well acted confession called “Ferdinand.” With a combination of children’s toys and grown-up responsibilities, we learn of the personal hardships confronting Luke Tudball as “Dad.” His never-seenonstage son, Ferdinand, is the focus of Dad’s urgent, heart-wrenching and life-affirming questions…and answers! Should we believe in the magic of gentle giants or storm through life as matadors? Playwright/ director Heather Bagnall, co-artistic director of Tasty Monster Productions with husband, Luke, offers a mesmerizing tale for all ages. Truly wonderful. The autumn/winter schedule continues with a haunting drama “Fade to Black,” then Shakespeare’s “Winter Tale” and their big production of “A Chorus Line.” Surf to www.secrettheatre.com, call their box office at 718-392-0722 or like them on Facebook. As always, save me a seat on the aisle. ‘Flying Solo’ launches next phase A VIEW FROM THE CLIFF BY CLIFF KASDEN
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