Kateri Kapers returns to rock the Rev. Brown School
The Swinging, Singing Saints & Sinners are ready to perform SPARTA Watch out for witty one-liners and melodious music to fill the air in Sparta this weekend. The Kateri Kapers variety show has returned to feature community talent again. Feet will be tapping, hands will be clapping, and parodies perfectly performed. With roots dating back to the Victorian era of stage shows there will be song, dance, magic, and comedy on Friday and Saturday nights that promise fun for all. There are 22 scheduled acts for the ninth season of this event, billed as The Singing, Swinging Saints & Sinners of Blessed Kateri. Parish members as well as local area residents will be performing. In addition to individual vocalists belting out songs to which the audience can sing along, Master of Ceremony Tom Gibbons and Angela Duguay will introduce acts that include the Metropolitan Saxophone Quartet performing songs from Billy Joel and Coldplay; the Fabulous Ceili Dancers of the Irish American Association of Northern NJ (IAANJ) who will dance reels and jigs to 'Conamarra'; a dazzling dry land synchronized swim routine by Blessed Kateri's Aquatic Synchronauts; The Great Garsetti Magic Show; and the Zumbalicious Babes of Blessed Kateri & Friends who will shake their way through a world music inspired Zumba dance routine in the Bhangra-style of East India. The local band Equinox'will also perform as well as serve as the house band for the event. Church member Pat O'Malley said, "Kapers is a fun-raiser, not a fundraiser for Blessed Kateri. Kapers is all about community and we are grateful to be putting on our ninth annual show!" In addition to being the producer of the event, O'Malley will also take the stage to perform classic American Standards "Fly Me To the Moon" and "Misty." In addition to the stage acts, there will be door prizes, a turkey raffle, and a 50/50 drawing. The tradition of tailgating will also continue this year, and guests are welcomed to BYOB and while coffee, tea, soda, and baked goods will be provided. Those in attendance will be able to personalize their own table settings and have a chance to win a prize for best tailgate table. The show will run this weekend on Friday, Nov. 18 and Saturday, Nov. 19 at 7:15 p.m. in McKenna Hall at the Rev. Brown School, 294 Newton Sparta Rd, in Sparta. All proceeds will go towards the general funds and community efforts of the Blessed Kateri R.C. Parish. Guests must be 21 years of age or older. Advance ticket prices are $15 each / $25 for two, or, at the door for $20 each / $30 for two. Tickets can be purchased at the Blessed Kateri Parish, 427 Stanhope Rd in Sparta. For more information call 973-729-1682. Written and photographed by Glynnis Jones