October 5, 2005 – Sylvia Bierschenk

'Stars and Stripes Forever' involves community

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The Stephen F. Austin State University School of Music's production of "Stars and Stripes Forever: a Patriotic Revue" on Saturday, Oct. 15, and Sunday, Oct. 16, will involve a wide cross section of the Nacogdoches community.

Mayor Bob Dunn, representatives of the armed forces and SFA's ROTC, the Raguet Elementary Choir and the SFA Pops Orchestra are among those who will assist the SFA A Cappella Choir in its presentation of a multi-sensory patriotic concert.

Dr. Tim King, SFA director of choral studies, said that during the world's current complex state of terrorism, catastrophic events and conflicting politics. He hopes the concert will "rekindle the patriotic fervor of a time gone by."

"The program includes the toe-tapping 'Salute to the Armed Forces,' Irving Berlin's familiar and renowned 'God Bless America' and the stirring, heart-felt spiritual 'Deep River," he said.

The highlight of the concert will be the grand finale, "Our Flag Was Still There." The musical was created by Deborah Craig-Claar with music composed and arranged by David T. Clydesdale. Featured soloists will be seniors Matt Moody, of Kirbyville, and Frances Teal, of Nacogdoches.

The Saturday performance will begin at 7:30 p.m., and the Sunday performance is at 2:30 p.m. Both shows are in W.M. Turner Auditorium.

The event is a part of the SFA College of Fine Arts' University Series. Prior to the Saturday concert, the college will host a 6:45 p.m. reception in Griffith Gallery to honor the show's corporate sponsor, Citizens 1st Bank. At 7 p.m., Dr. Richard Berry, dean of the college, will give an informative talk about the program.

Tickets to "Stars and Stripes" are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for students and children. All seats are reserved.

For more information, please visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.