Yes, Virginia, there really was a Tin Pan Alley. From around 1885 to the 1920’s, this New York City enclave was the music publishing capital of the world. Legend has it that a newspaper writer coined the term because all those pianos being pounded in publishers’ demo houses sounded like hundreds of people banging on tin pans. But don’t be fooled by all that craziness. The era produced folks like George M. Cohan, Irving Berlin, Harold Arlen, and Sammy Cahn–Broadway’s founding fathers.

Tipping our hats in tribute will be five terrifically talented tune-types: Ryan Cappleman, Laura Monagle, Beth Mulkerron, and Jon Stewart, along with our Rising Star, Homestead High’s Mari Duckler.

We’re very excited to welcome accomplished music director and performer Ruben Piirainen for his first time at our Musical MainStage piano, where he’ll be joined by Tim Karth on drums.

Songs from the era include Alexander’s Ragtime Band, Sweet Georgia Brown, and Cheek to Cheek. Let’s chase away our winter blues with some good old fashioned, they-don’t-write-’em-like-that-anymore sing-along (we don’t mind) classics.

Hosting the proceedings will be Sunset’s version of Kathy Lee & Hoda…wine-guzzling gal pals Susan Loveridge and Peggy Peterson Ryan.

Performers:
Ryan Cappleman
Laura Monagle
Beth Mulkerron
Jon Stewart

Rising Star: Mari Duckler (Homestead High School)

Music Director: Ruben Piirainen
Drums: Tim Karth

Narrators: Susan Loveridge and Peggy Peterson Ryan

Stage Manager: Mary Gensler