Schools

FREE Players to sing Broadway tunes at Clarke High School

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Broadway show tunes are set to hit the W.T. Clarke High School stage as a special needs acting group prepares to put on the big show for the community on Nov. 5.

The Family Residences and Essential Enterprise Players, in conjunction with the East Meadow School District, will present the highly anticipated show, “Sing the Broadway Classics with 20 Years of Love” at Clarke High School beginning at 7 p.m. All seats are $15 and group homes are $10, with accompanying staff to sit for free.

“The wonderful acting crew is going to sing Broadway classics from musical theatre as well songs from previous productions the FREE Players have put on,” Patrice Dobies, East Meadow’s director of special education and pupil personnel services said. “The group is very excited to put on this show for the community. I think it’s something everyone will enjoy.”

Since 1977, FREE supports more than 4,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities, mental illnesses and traumatic brain injuries. It sponsors The FREE Players, a group of passionate actors and performers of all abilities.

The FREE Players’ partnership with the East Meadow School District has been strong since its inception in January 2008 when actors performed “Guys and Dolls” locally. Since then, The FREE Players have showcased their talent through shows like “Beauty and the Beast,” “Damn Yankees,” and most recently, a successful production of “Legally Blonde, Jr.” in early June.

“Programs like these bring the community together,” Dobies said. “Everyone who comes to the shows always have a great time while supporting a great cause.”

Proceeds will benefit future FREE Players’ events while a small portion will benefit the East Meadow SEPTA. Tickets are currently on sale and can be ordered by calling (516) 495-3201.