This past fall semester marked a busy time for members of Scheck Hillel’s Jordan Alexander Ressler Arts program. From our Matanot Shelanu showcase to the band and orchestra’s Winter Concert, the stage lights shined brightly on our students!
Matanot Shelanu, a comedy musical showcase featuring songs and choreography from various plays, highlighted performers from both the musical theater and band/orchestra departments. With performances derived from musicals such as “Comedy Tonight” from Steven Sondheim’s A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and skillful musical solos, this one-of-a-kind production’s two acts captured the hearts and minds of both musical enthusiasts and non-listeners alike. Matanot Shelanu spanned two shows from November 11 to November 14. Despite its small number of performers, its cast left an indelible impression on members of the audience. These performers, ranging in age from grades 4-11, each brought a unique set of skills to the table. While a majority of the cast participated in theatrical performances, others took to showcasing their talents in piano, violin, and even flute, playing songs such as the classical “Hungarian Dance #5” and the well-known “Siman Tov”.
Yet another highlight of the first half of the 2024-2025 school year was the amazing band and orchestra Winter Concert, which took place on December 9 at the Hollywood Performing Arts Center. This concert combined elements of both classical and pop music and featured special guest musician Saul Dreier, a 99-year-old Holocaust survivor who joined the orchestra in playing the “Hatikva”, Israel’s national anthem. He then played the joyful “Hava Nagilah” in a duet with orchestra teacher and conductor Angelica Losada. Dreier is credited with establishing the Holocaust Survivor Band to share his love of music, which kept him alive during the Holocaust. Following Dreir’s performance, the Preludio Orchestra played. Afterward, the Beginning Concert Band made their debut with “Ancient Hunters”, followed by other songs. The Intermezzo Orchestra then came on stage to perform “Hallelujah” with Saul Dreier. The concert’s music slowly shifted to a more contemporary style with the Symphonic Band’s Michael Jackson mashup and Whitney Houston tribute.
In regards to Jewish culture, the Camerata graced the audience with a dazzling “Mi Shebeirach L’Tzahal” and other classical pieces. Finally, orchestra and band students came together to create the Scheck Hillel Philharmonic. They played the iconic “Pink Panther” theme song, and a mashup with the songs from the renowned musical, The Phantom of the Opera.
Participants of the Jordan Alexander Ressler Arts program give their thanks to Stuart Rosenthal, John Baldwin, Michel Klein, Matt Villa, and Angelica Losada for putting together these special productions, and look forward to more exciting performances in the upcoming spring semester.
