Patrons and parishioners alike were wowed at St. Patrick’s Parish of Bay Shore on Sunday, October 2, listening to the musical stylings of various opera composers from the late 1600s to the early 1900s performed by Divalicious – a renowned musical troupe.
The performers included Ruthann Turekian, Gina Harver, Leslie Valentine, and Daniel Ragone.
The event was made possible through grant funding provided by Legislator Steve Flotteron (R- Bay Shore) in collaboration with the Islip Arts Council and St. Patrick’s. Lynda A. Moran, executive director of the Islip Arts Council, announced the performers before the musical director of the group Ragone gave a brief introduction to the music being performed. Moran also explained the nature of the grant and how it serves a culturally enriching purpose.
“We needed to be in a house of worship,” said Moran of searching for a venue. She quickly got into contact with Pastor Rev. Seán J. Gann, who was quick to agree.
The music started with excerpts of The Marriage of Figaro by Mozart and daPonte. Ragone elucidated on why a selection commonly associated with Mozart, someone of Germanic origin, was selected for a performance in honor of Italian heritage month.
The latter composer, daPonte, was the reason. daPonte contributed much to the piece, and even has a rich history that intertwines with New York, bringing his music acumen to the new fledgling nation.
The event was well attended with the entire middle section of pews full and some sitting balcony and transept pews. Flotteron called the event a “huge success” with attendees echoing the sentiment.
Serving as the unofficial start of Italian heritage month, members of the Sons of Italy Marconi Lodge were in attendance. Afterward, Mario’s Pasticceria and Bay Shore Bean provided desert and coff
As participants enjoyed winding down to their coffee, the Bay Shore Historical Society offered numerous insights to the construction of the historic church.
The Islip Arts Council was created in 1974 and was incorporated as a not-for-profit shortly thereafter. They have sponsored numerous events and even brought the New York Philharmonic to Heckscher State Park more than 40 years ago.
