Performing arts and music students, faculty highlight Ever Elon kickoff gala

Elon performing arts and music students and faculty provided entertainment in an emotional gala dinner marking the kickoff of the Ever Elon Campaign on Oct. 11.

The program was directed by Fred Rubeck, associate professor of performing arts. He was joined by music and performing arts faculty and students in producing a multimedia program that included singing, dancing and the premiere of two new musical works.

Choreography for the performance was done Lauren Kearns, assistant professor of performing arts.

The Ever Elon Campaign Theme was composed by faculty members Todd Coleman and Stephen A. Futrell. They were joined in recording the piece by Jacob Danieley ’12, Jim Roberts, Tony Sawyer, Matt Buckmaster, Devarrick Turner ’12, Laura Barnick ’10, Josh Carswell and the Ever Elon Choir.

The dinner also included the premiere of a new verse of the Elon University Alma Mater. Futrell added a third verse to the original lyrics written by William D. “Bill” Ellis P’70. The Alma Mater was performed by the Elon University Camerata, conducted by Futrell. 

Guests at the dinner were given a copy of a special CD recording of the musical numbers.

To see videos of the performances, click on the links at right.

Faculty and staff involved in the production included the following:

Producer- Carolyn Ent

Gala Director- Fred Rubeck

Choreographer- Lauren Kearns
Music Direction, Composer -Stephen Futrell
Composer- Todd Coleman
Writer – Bobby Clark
Production Coordinator – Christopher Waters
Research & Image Gathering- Katie Nash
Editing – Jesse Borkowski
Narrator – Don Grady
Assistant Choreographers – Rachel Perlman ‘10, Karena Thacker ‘10
Stage Manager – Stuart Richie
Assistant Stage Managers – Matt Emig, Beth Somerville