BY HILLARY VIDERS
SPECIAL TO NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS
HAWORTH, N.J. —— On Nov. 18, Haworth Library was transformed into a Greenwich Village-style cabaret that showcased local talent, and that talent was amazing.
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That evening, 28 performers of all ages, some as young as 5 years old, took the stage and wowed the standing room only audience in the Haworth Coffeehouse Open Mic. The community event was organized and hosted by the Haworth Arts Committee under the direction of Claudia Gaard.
The atmosphere in the “coffeehouse,” i.e., the library’s meeting room, was enhanced by a professional sound system and stage lights, and candlelit tables. Musical pro Carol Kenny accompanied the singers on keyboard.
In an adjoining room, volunteer Vivian Stern sold cookies, donuts, brownies, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. Admission to the show was free and proceeds from the sale of the refreshments were donated to support local arts and recreation programs.
Over the last seven years, the Haworth Coffeehouse has provided a welcoming platform for singers and musicians, as well as poets, storytellers, dancers and comics. The Open Mic Coffeehouse holds four shows a year.
Performers were welcomed to the stage by Jane Keitel, who also conducted brief interviews. This particularly helped relax the younger rising stars and provided additional entertainment for the audience.
In addition to the many vocalists, there were guitar and flute performances. Although most of the performers were amateurs, there were professionals as well, and several of youngsters were proteges of local voice coaches.
Although the format of the show was “first come, first up” with a signup sheet, the youngsters were allowed to perform first, from 7-8 p.m. The audience was filled with preening parents, adoring grandparents and neighbors, many of whom took photos and videos. The songs ranged from pop, rhythm and blues and a host of show tunes, particularly from Disney movies.
What was most surprising and delightful was the fact that none of the little performers, even the 5 year olds, seemed at all nervous. In fact, most of them had a stage presence that you would expect of seasoned musicians!
The Haworth Arts Committee is a huge asset to the town of Haworth, which is home to some 3,000 residents. In addition to the Open Mic Coffeehouse shows, they produce the annual Midsummer’s Night Jam and at Halloween, “Ghost Stories at The Pond.” All of their events are filled with talented performers and lots of enthused spectators.
Past participants of events hosted by the Haworth Arts Committee have noted how much they enjoy the spirit of the community among the talented performers and the supportive staff.
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