Musicality saw its second production, this past August 12-15 at the Little Theater in New Haven. This year's Musicality '99 continued to benefit from the donated talents of the Skinner family, Good News Contemporary Ensemble and Friends plus increased involvement of Vantage Group staff and program participants.

Last year's amazing feat of producing a show with only eight weeks of planning could only be topped by Musicality '99. This production allowed ample opportunity for planning and coordinated efforts by the Skinners and Vantage Group.

Vantage Group Program participants contributed their talents in a wide variety of areas,both on stage and behind the scenes. George Deming took production notes at rehearsals and was later involved with set building, then working backstage during performances. The Vantage Voices Chorus, under the direction and guitar accompaniment of Ellen Greist , performed Hit the Road Jack with verses sung by soloist Deborah Johnson. Deb also sang a moving version of the spiritual I'll Fly Away; her singing received a standing ovation at most performances.

Those who were a little shy about performing on-stage played other roles. Thanks to Tim Babbitt, Kirk Selden, Paul Spetrina, Larry Marone, Frank Simeone, Brian Valente and Robin Walters; these were people to meet and greet and take tickets at the front door of the Little Theater. Kathy Jetter gave a hand backstage with some of the fast-paced costume changes!

An average of 72 people attended each day's performance of Musicality. This was a successful fundraiser which raised money for the Arts and Leisure Enrichment program (for more information on this program, see page 3).

Musicality '99 was a success due to the dedication and hard work contributed by all- it was truly a team effort. To paraphrase Shakespeare, life is a stage, we are all players.