AEA
ACTRESS | SINGER | DANCER | VOICE-OVER ARTIST
ARTS EDUCATOR | AUDITION PREP COACH | DIRECTOR | INTIMACY CAPTAIN | GRAPHIC DESIGNER | MARKETING DIRECTOR | ARTISTIC DIRECTOR | ACTIVIST
ACTRESS | SINGER | DANCER | VOICE-OVER ARTIST
ARTS EDUCATOR | AUDITION PREP COACH | DIRECTOR | INTIMACY CAPTAIN | GRAPHIC DESIGNER | MARKETING DIRECTOR | ARTISTIC DIRECTOR | ACTIVIST
Desiree Montes is an AEA-Equity Singer | Actress | Dancer | Voice-Over Artist and has been a part of the professional Central Florida theatre, film, industrial, and theme park entertainment industry for over 17 years. She is also an Audition Preparation Coach, Director, and Arts Educator. In addition to theatrical stages all over Central Florida, you may have seen her at Universal Studios as Mabel (The Blues Brothers Show) and as Celestina Warbeck (Diagon Alley). As well as Coral/Peach (Finding Nemo: The Musical), and annually as a Gospel/R&B Singer (Joyful! A Celebration of the Holiday!). Some of her notable credits include “Norma Valverde” (Hands on a Hardbody), “Aida” (Aida: the Musical), “Sarah” (Ragtime: the Musical), “Daniela” (In The Heights), and “Billie Holiday” in 3 regional productions of (Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill). She made her Off-Broadway debut at the 2019 New York Musical Festival in the Osceola Arts produced production of, Flying Lessons. Actively seeking to be a voice for equality, diversity and inclusion, in addition to being on the Central Florida Liaison Committee, the Equal Employment Opportunity Committee, and the WDW Negotiation Action Committee for Actors' Equity Association, Desiree serves on the executive team as the Communications & Digital Outreach Lead for Central Florida Entertainment Advocacy, where she has developed and continues to maintain the structure and functionality of CFEA’s websites. She holds certifications in Integrated Marketing Communications: Advertising, Public Relations, and Digital Marketing, as well as Neuromarketing & Marketing Psychology. She formally served as Marketing Director for Opera Orlando & Director of Marketing for Garden Theatre. Desiree Montes serves as Orlando Fringe's Artistic & Marketing Director.
the LATEST
ATTEND THE TALE...
SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET
SEP 7 - OCT 1, 2023
SANFORD, FL | THEATER WEST END
Attend the dark, witty and Tony Award-winning tale of love, murder and revenge set against the backdrop of 19th century London.
Sweeney Todd has become a bloody, worldwide success since being awarded eight Tony's, (including Best Musical), for its Broadway premiere. Stephen Sondheim's and Hugh Wheeler's (A Little Night Music, Pacific Overtures) tasty, thrilling, theatrical treat has simultaneously shocked, awed and delighted audiences across the world.
An infamous tale, Sweeney Todd, an unjustly exiled barber, returns to nineteenth century London, seeking vengeance against the lecherous judge who framed him and ravaged his young wife. The road to revenge leads Todd to Mrs. Lovett, a resourceful proprietress of a failing pie shop, above which, he opens a new barber practice. Mrs. Lovett's luck sharply shifts when Todd's thirst for blood inspires the integration of an ingredient into her meat pies that has the people of London lining up... and the carnage has only just begun!
SEP 7 - OCT 1, 2023
SANFORD, FL | THEATER WEST END
Attend the dark, witty and Tony Award-winning tale of love, murder and revenge set against the backdrop of 19th century London.
Sweeney Todd has become a bloody, worldwide success since being awarded eight Tony's, (including Best Musical), for its Broadway premiere. Stephen Sondheim's and Hugh Wheeler's (A Little Night Music, Pacific Overtures) tasty, thrilling, theatrical treat has simultaneously shocked, awed and delighted audiences across the world.
An infamous tale, Sweeney Todd, an unjustly exiled barber, returns to nineteenth century London, seeking vengeance against the lecherous judge who framed him and ravaged his young wife. The road to revenge leads Todd to Mrs. Lovett, a resourceful proprietress of a failing pie shop, above which, he opens a new barber practice. Mrs. Lovett's luck sharply shifts when Todd's thirst for blood inspires the integration of an ingredient into her meat pies that has the people of London lining up... and the carnage has only just begun!
Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill
AUG 8 - AUG 18 2023
It is an evening of theatre you don’t want to miss. Starring Hope Rep newcomer Desiree Montes* as Billie Holiday and last year’s Artist in Residence, Ayesu Lartey as Jimmy Powers. Playing in the historic Knickerbocker Theatre in downtown Holland from August 8th -18th. Get your tickets today to hear the story and music of one the most iconic musicians ever, come to life on the Hope Rep stage.
AUG 8 - AUG 18 2023
It is an evening of theatre you don’t want to miss. Starring Hope Rep newcomer Desiree Montes* as Billie Holiday and last year’s Artist in Residence, Ayesu Lartey as Jimmy Powers. Playing in the historic Knickerbocker Theatre in downtown Holland from August 8th -18th. Get your tickets today to hear the story and music of one the most iconic musicians ever, come to life on the Hope Rep stage.
"Montes is a dead ringer for Billie Holiday. She looks, sounds, moves just like her, and hearing her sing many of her most recognizable songs, from “God Bless the Child” to “Strange Fruit” to “What a Little Moonlight Can Do” with accompaniment from Music Director Ayesu Lartey is a gift. And hearing her tell the woeful and tragic stories from her life while in a booze- and heroin-fueled haze we know she never pulls out of is downright painful."
"Many a keen performer has attempted to capture the iconic jazz singer and composer known nearly as well for her long-suffering as for her genius as an artist, from Diana Ross to Audra McDonald to, most recently, Andra Day, on screen, each bringing her own take on the legend. However, to witness Montes in this role on the Knickerbocker Theatre stage, is an unparalleled experience, as if watching the unraveling of one of the 20th Century’s finest artists."
"Montes captures Holiday’s fiery personality as she wends her way through the stories, at times humorous, but always tragic, interspersing them with songs, making us feel terrific compassion for Holiday and leaving us wanting more as she saunters in and out of the spotlight, from the edge of the piano to up and down stairs to her stage, lighting cigarettes, sipping gin, and at one apex moment, shooting up backstage."
"Many a keen performer has attempted to capture the iconic jazz singer and composer known nearly as well for her long-suffering as for her genius as an artist, from Diana Ross to Audra McDonald to, most recently, Andra Day, on screen, each bringing her own take on the legend. However, to witness Montes in this role on the Knickerbocker Theatre stage, is an unparalleled experience, as if watching the unraveling of one of the 20th Century’s finest artists."
"Montes captures Holiday’s fiery personality as she wends her way through the stories, at times humorous, but always tragic, interspersing them with songs, making us feel terrific compassion for Holiday and leaving us wanting more as she saunters in and out of the spotlight, from the edge of the piano to up and down stairs to her stage, lighting cigarettes, sipping gin, and at one apex moment, shooting up backstage."
Apologies to Lorraine Hansberry (You Too August Wilson)
OCT 5 - OCT 30, 2022
“The world you’re about to see ain’t yours”
In this “historically inaccurate” world – imagine the US had a second Civil War that segregated the country. A community of an all-Black state raises concerns after a resident’s partner, who is Afro-Latinx, moves to town. This dynamic, funny, and heart-wrenching winner of the 2021 Yale Drama Series Prize was previously seen at Orlando Shakes as a part of PlayFest 2020. Now see this ground-breaking, fully produced production!
Approximately one hour and 30 minutes, with no intermission.
Content Advisory
Children under 5 will not be admitted into the Theater.
OCT 5 - OCT 30, 2022
“The world you’re about to see ain’t yours”
In this “historically inaccurate” world – imagine the US had a second Civil War that segregated the country. A community of an all-Black state raises concerns after a resident’s partner, who is Afro-Latinx, moves to town. This dynamic, funny, and heart-wrenching winner of the 2021 Yale Drama Series Prize was previously seen at Orlando Shakes as a part of PlayFest 2020. Now see this ground-breaking, fully produced production!
Approximately one hour and 30 minutes, with no intermission.
Content Advisory
Children under 5 will not be admitted into the Theater.
REVIEWS
Elaina Walton as 'Alice', Desiree Montes as 'Yael', Renata Eastlick as 'Jules' in Apologies to Lorraine Hansberry (You Too, August Wilson)." (Tony Firriolo / Courtesy photo)
"Desiree Montes and Renata Eastlick share a powerful and believable connection in both unfinished tales; Eastlick radiates an inner strength, Montes glows with an inner warmth the world can’t dampen." - Matt Palm, Orlando Sentinel
"If we accept there is such a thing as “mindless entertainment” — and I think we all have experienced that at some point — then it stands to reason its opposite exists. That might be just what “Apologies to Lorraine Hansberry (You Too, August Wilson)” is — a play in which nearly every line is meant to engage your mind." - Matt Palm, Orlando Sentinel
"If we accept there is such a thing as “mindless entertainment” — and I think we all have experienced that at some point — then it stands to reason its opposite exists. That might be just what “Apologies to Lorraine Hansberry (You Too, August Wilson)” is — a play in which nearly every line is meant to engage your mind." - Matt Palm, Orlando Sentinel
From left to right: Zoa Glows as 'Isaak', Desiree Montes as 'Yael', Elaina Walton as 'Alice', KP Powell as 'Lorenzo', and Renata Eastlick as 'Jules' in Apologies to Lorraine Hansberry (You Too, August Wilson)." (Tony Firriolo / Courtesy photo)
"..the play boldly, comically, and with a good deal of passion and emotion, takes us into an entirely new concept of what blackness and queerness mean today." - Mike Freeman, Freeline Media
"Desiree Montes as Yael, K.P. Powell as Lorenzo and Zoa Glows as Izaak each have their own sublime moments when they stand out and make a striking impression." - Mike Freeman, Freeline Media
"Desiree Montes as Yael, K.P. Powell as Lorenzo and Zoa Glows as Izaak each have their own sublime moments when they stand out and make a striking impression." - Mike Freeman, Freeline Media
"And the play itself will resonate with me even longer, thanks to a beautiful, first-class production that had me ugly crying while sitting front and center...The performances are equal parts funny, lacerating, joyful, satirical, and deeply moving. An outstanding ensemble of five brings forth a work that is exceedingly intelligent and unapologetically Black.
While the final sequence brought me to ugly tears as these five perfect humans stood onstage freely speaking what Blackness means to them in front of a predominantly white audience with heartbreaking honesty and clarity, I continued to cry on my way home thinking that the white people in the audience that needed to hear it probably did not—making the need for this brilliant work more necessary than it did when it first began.
Go. Spend your money. Listen. Listen to Renata Eastlick. Listen to K.P. Powell. Listen to Elaina Watson Listen to Zoa Glows. Listen to Desiree Montes (but also WATCH her, because her face says about a million more words than the ones she actually speaks).
Listen to connect." - Matthew MacDermid
While the final sequence brought me to ugly tears as these five perfect humans stood onstage freely speaking what Blackness means to them in front of a predominantly white audience with heartbreaking honesty and clarity, I continued to cry on my way home thinking that the white people in the audience that needed to hear it probably did not—making the need for this brilliant work more necessary than it did when it first began.
Go. Spend your money. Listen. Listen to Renata Eastlick. Listen to K.P. Powell. Listen to Elaina Watson Listen to Zoa Glows. Listen to Desiree Montes (but also WATCH her, because her face says about a million more words than the ones she actually speaks).
Listen to connect." - Matthew MacDermid
LADY DAY AT EMERSON'S BAR & GRILL - for 1 weekend only!
Directed by: Ramona Ramdeen
Starring: Desiree Montes as Billie Holiday
Musical Direction, and playing Jimmy Powers: Meachum L. Clarke
It’s March 1959. Just four months before her death, the legendary Billie Holiday is performing one of her final performances in South Philadelphia. She sings at a run-down bar accompanied by Jimmy Powers on the piano and shares stories about her life. The audience experiences more than a dozen musical numbers interlaced with sass, humor, and nostalgic moments that portray the riveting lady who was Lady Day.
LIMITED TIME PERFORMANCES:
Thursday DEC 9 at 8pm
Friday DEC 10 at 8pm
Saturday DEC 11 at 8pm
Sunday DEC 12 at 2pm
Sunday DEC 12 at 8pm
Directed by: Ramona Ramdeen
Starring: Desiree Montes as Billie Holiday
Musical Direction, and playing Jimmy Powers: Meachum L. Clarke
It’s March 1959. Just four months before her death, the legendary Billie Holiday is performing one of her final performances in South Philadelphia. She sings at a run-down bar accompanied by Jimmy Powers on the piano and shares stories about her life. The audience experiences more than a dozen musical numbers interlaced with sass, humor, and nostalgic moments that portray the riveting lady who was Lady Day.
LIMITED TIME PERFORMANCES:
Thursday DEC 9 at 8pm
Friday DEC 10 at 8pm
Saturday DEC 11 at 8pm
Sunday DEC 12 at 2pm
Sunday DEC 12 at 8pm
"Friends, I *strongly* encourage you to go see Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill at Players by the Sea Theatre.
Desiree Montes gives a MASTERFUL performance as Billie Holiday—from the moment she steps onstage, she takes you on a captivating and oftentimes mesmerizing journey. She is thoughtful and present, and brilliantly shifts between grounded and ungrounded in one harrowing second.
This isn’t a cabaret. It’s not a biography. It’s one moment, one night in time where you get lost with Billie." - Bradley Akers
"Billie is played by Desiree Montes, and she is absolutely spectacular. She sings and talks (and slurs convincingly) and clearly has been channeling Lady Day her entire life." - Stephen Dare
"What can I say about this lovely Lady???? She embodied the role of Billie Holiday and I am so glad to have met her!!!!!! She really is beautiful inside and out!!! Such an inspiration!!!" - Kanesha Mitchell
"That was an entire master class on monologue. She was simply amazing. You are a gem. I felt indebted to you by the end of the show. Good Lord!!!!! - Marquia Presley
"You were AH-MAZING! I totally enjoyed your show!" - Kimberly Allen
"What a way to honor one of our Greats!....wonderful." - Darlene Breitenbach
"We were fortunate to see you do this show twice. You were wonderful." - Charlene Smith
"Super Amazing show!" - Maya Hall
"You are so badass." - Bradley Akers
Desiree Montes gives a MASTERFUL performance as Billie Holiday—from the moment she steps onstage, she takes you on a captivating and oftentimes mesmerizing journey. She is thoughtful and present, and brilliantly shifts between grounded and ungrounded in one harrowing second.
This isn’t a cabaret. It’s not a biography. It’s one moment, one night in time where you get lost with Billie." - Bradley Akers
"Billie is played by Desiree Montes, and she is absolutely spectacular. She sings and talks (and slurs convincingly) and clearly has been channeling Lady Day her entire life." - Stephen Dare
"What can I say about this lovely Lady???? She embodied the role of Billie Holiday and I am so glad to have met her!!!!!! She really is beautiful inside and out!!! Such an inspiration!!!" - Kanesha Mitchell
"That was an entire master class on monologue. She was simply amazing. You are a gem. I felt indebted to you by the end of the show. Good Lord!!!!! - Marquia Presley
"You were AH-MAZING! I totally enjoyed your show!" - Kimberly Allen
"What a way to honor one of our Greats!....wonderful." - Darlene Breitenbach
"We were fortunate to see you do this show twice. You were wonderful." - Charlene Smith
"Super Amazing show!" - Maya Hall
"You are so badass." - Bradley Akers
Starring:
Jennica McCleary as Winifred Sanderson
Desiree Montes as Mary Sanderson
Kristen Sheola as Sarah Sanderson
Your favorite soul sucking sirens of Salem, Winifred, Sarah and Mary Sanderson, return in a brand new theatrical rock concert! An evening filled with music and parodies covering many decades and genres, the Sanderson Sisters will cast a spell sure to have you singing, laughing and dancing till you die!!! This show may not be appropriate for younger…..children.
Bette Midler Tribute Artist, Jennica McCleary, originated Winifred Sanderson at Disney’s Magic Kingdom production ‘Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular’ 2015 (a now viral video) in Orlando, FL. She has worked with Legends in Concert and Pattycake Productions and has been featured MTV, VH1, Entertainment Tonight. She was also featured in The Hocus Pocus 25th Anniversary Bash on Freeform as well as Freeform’s Halloween Road. She is thrilled to have conjured this fan-fiction style concert, while battling breast cancer, to celebrate everyone's inner magical badass witch.
"Desiree Montes, known in RegionalTheatreLand for her portrayal of the legendary Billie Holiday in LADY DAY... a role she has played in more than one production, truly knocked Whitney's GREATEST LOVE OF ALL out of the park and was probably heard all the way to Kathy Najimy's house." -Bobby Patrick [BWW]
Jennica McCleary as Winifred Sanderson
Desiree Montes as Mary Sanderson
Kristen Sheola as Sarah Sanderson
Your favorite soul sucking sirens of Salem, Winifred, Sarah and Mary Sanderson, return in a brand new theatrical rock concert! An evening filled with music and parodies covering many decades and genres, the Sanderson Sisters will cast a spell sure to have you singing, laughing and dancing till you die!!! This show may not be appropriate for younger…..children.
Bette Midler Tribute Artist, Jennica McCleary, originated Winifred Sanderson at Disney’s Magic Kingdom production ‘Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular’ 2015 (a now viral video) in Orlando, FL. She has worked with Legends in Concert and Pattycake Productions and has been featured MTV, VH1, Entertainment Tonight. She was also featured in The Hocus Pocus 25th Anniversary Bash on Freeform as well as Freeform’s Halloween Road. She is thrilled to have conjured this fan-fiction style concert, while battling breast cancer, to celebrate everyone's inner magical badass witch.
"Desiree Montes, known in RegionalTheatreLand for her portrayal of the legendary Billie Holiday in LADY DAY... a role she has played in more than one production, truly knocked Whitney's GREATEST LOVE OF ALL out of the park and was probably heard all the way to Kathy Najimy's house." -Bobby Patrick [BWW]
Director: Desiree Montes
Music Director: Brandon Martin
Choreographer: James Tuuao
Stage Manager: Hope Griffin
Costume Designer: Indigo Leigh
Scenic Designer: Tramaine Berryhill
Lighting Designer: Bradley Cronenwett
Fight Director: Bill Warriner
Asst Stage Manager: Erica Felton
Asst Costume Designer: Sumalee Eaton
"What an incredible production your version of Aida was. We loved every aspect of the show. You did an incredible job and omg the performances and omg the voices....and omg the production values. Just spectacular all around. Loved the little twist u added at the end that lead us to think they were together again and had a son. I may or may not have gotten a little weepy eyed." - Randy Tapper
"The show was amazing, they all were amazing!" - Jenny Ortega
"Great show, *killer* costumes, and a big shout out to the Nubian ensemble's blending, nuance, and deep emotion...That show was blessed with many talented singers. And y' all, watch out for this Naomi Gomez chick too... She's got something special, that one. So glad I got to enjoy it on its final day. You should all be very proud of your work, especially Desiree Montes congrats all!" - Richard Gebo
"It was an amazing show! Gave me goosebumps and tears in my eyes at the same time." - Audience Member
"Just saw Aida, my first time ever at Osceola Arts, with some of my favorite people in the cast and crew. WOW. Congrats, you talented, beautiful, amazing humans,. What a show." - Sterling Lovett
"Friends and Family GO to Experience One of The Most Amaziiiiiiing and Beautiful Broadway Musical you can see in your Life The history,The music,The songs…All in one word a Masterpiece!!! With The Amaziiiiing Virginia Roebuck as AIDA, Anthony Callender as The Magnificent RADAMES and The Incredible Naomi Gomez as AMNERIS, Sharing the Stage with a Talented and Breathtaking Cast, Directed by the Talented,Singer,Actress and More Miss Desiree Montes!!!"
"On this smaller scale, Montes has nicely compensated with softer, more poignant imagery — the newly enslaved being stripped of their possessions is a particularly evocative touch" - Matt Palm, Orlando Sentinel
Music Director: Brandon Martin
Choreographer: James Tuuao
Stage Manager: Hope Griffin
Costume Designer: Indigo Leigh
Scenic Designer: Tramaine Berryhill
Lighting Designer: Bradley Cronenwett
Fight Director: Bill Warriner
Asst Stage Manager: Erica Felton
Asst Costume Designer: Sumalee Eaton
"What an incredible production your version of Aida was. We loved every aspect of the show. You did an incredible job and omg the performances and omg the voices....and omg the production values. Just spectacular all around. Loved the little twist u added at the end that lead us to think they were together again and had a son. I may or may not have gotten a little weepy eyed." - Randy Tapper
"The show was amazing, they all were amazing!" - Jenny Ortega
"Great show, *killer* costumes, and a big shout out to the Nubian ensemble's blending, nuance, and deep emotion...That show was blessed with many talented singers. And y' all, watch out for this Naomi Gomez chick too... She's got something special, that one. So glad I got to enjoy it on its final day. You should all be very proud of your work, especially Desiree Montes congrats all!" - Richard Gebo
"It was an amazing show! Gave me goosebumps and tears in my eyes at the same time." - Audience Member
"Just saw Aida, my first time ever at Osceola Arts, with some of my favorite people in the cast and crew. WOW. Congrats, you talented, beautiful, amazing humans,. What a show." - Sterling Lovett
"Friends and Family GO to Experience One of The Most Amaziiiiiiing and Beautiful Broadway Musical you can see in your Life The history,The music,The songs…All in one word a Masterpiece!!! With The Amaziiiiing Virginia Roebuck as AIDA, Anthony Callender as The Magnificent RADAMES and The Incredible Naomi Gomez as AMNERIS, Sharing the Stage with a Talented and Breathtaking Cast, Directed by the Talented,Singer,Actress and More Miss Desiree Montes!!!"
"On this smaller scale, Montes has nicely compensated with softer, more poignant imagery — the newly enslaved being stripped of their possessions is a particularly evocative touch" - Matt Palm, Orlando Sentinel
Official trailer for three60tv Casting's
"echo"
Desiree Montes "Hannah"
TUNE IN TODAY AT 6pm est.
3/24 8PM EST
CLICK THE GRAPHIC FOR THE LIVE STREAM NOW!
Greater orlando performing arts relief
"Local theater leaders have come together to form GOPAR: Greater Orlando Performing Arts Relief. This is an ongoing relief effort to help folks involved in the performing arts who are going through hard times. We have partnered with St. Luke's Methodist Church and all donations are tax deductible. Donations can be accepted at any time via their website. No amount is too small...or too big!
Please share this information with all your friends! Let's show our Central Florida theatre folks our love!
Here is our mission:
"To provide easy-access assistance - in times of crisis - to individuals in the Greater Orlando area who typically derive income from the performing arts and/or theme park entertainment sectors. To be sensitive to each individual’s unique circumstances and to offer a holistic approach toward achieving long term solutions for financial, physical, and emotional well-being."
Please share this information with all your friends! Let's show our Central Florida theatre folks our love!
Here is our mission:
"To provide easy-access assistance - in times of crisis - to individuals in the Greater Orlando area who typically derive income from the performing arts and/or theme park entertainment sectors. To be sensitive to each individual’s unique circumstances and to offer a holistic approach toward achieving long term solutions for financial, physical, and emotional well-being."
~GOPAR virtual launch event~
now streaming this weekend only
Central Florida Arts Leadership Pulls Together To Create GOPAR Greater Orlando Performing Arts Relief COVID-19 has shaken almost every industry in our nation. Among the hardest hit is ENTERTAINMENT. Arts, Event and Entertainment industry professionals have lost thousands of jobs and millions in wages nationwide since March. With one of the nations largest entertainment populations based in Central Florida, and no certainty of industrys restoration timing, a vast number of people find themselves furloughed or laid off, and struggling. In response, local Arts and Entertainment Leaders have rallied together to help those who are experiencing hardship with the creation of the GREATER ORLANDO PERFORMING ARTS RELIEF program, GOPAR. GOPARs aim is to help industry professionals navigate successfully through uncertain times with a variety of support and financial services. The new charitable organization launches officially on Friday, September 4th at 8pm with a virtual fundraising event on the GOPAR Facebook Page that will highlight local performances and insight to the arts communitys activities during the COVID-19 Crisis. Organizers strive to present an evening of fun that will leave the community hopeful about the future and aware of available resources. The broadcast will be available throughout the Labor Day weekend. This is an extension of the Social Distance Showcase Series that helped kickstart GOPARs efforts. Hosted by Orlando area theatrical mainstays Kenny Howard, Rich Charron and Michael Wanzie, and featuring many of the areas most prominent theater professionals, the Showcase raised more than $19,000 and helped 188 artists with $100 cash grants. In partnership with St. Lukes United Methodist Church, GOPAR will offer resource advocacy, including financial assistance, food resources, physical and mental health resources, volunteer opportunities and more, leveraging St. Lukes well-established social support programs, partnerships and expertise. The launch event will also reveal the GOPAR website, featuring program partners and available resources. Central Florida is so blessed with a tremendous talent pool, but at the moment so many of those artists are unemployed due to the coronavirus and are in jeopardy of losing any state or federal assistance they may have had, says Jim Helsinger, Artistic Director at Orlando Shakespeare Theatre. Our community needs to take steps to ensure we can keep talented artists who are in temporary distress in our area for the future enjoyment of all. GOPAR will become an accredited, 501c3 staple for the Central Florida community, much like The Actors Fund in New York City, offering a single connection and point of support for thousands of on-stage, technical and production professionals who are largely self-employed contractors or work part-time for numerous employers.
From the comfort of your own homes...and two drive-in style outdoor performances!
A digital concert experience featuring the finest local talent and Space Coast Symphony Orchestra performing beloved musical theater and opera pieces, but with a twist: all of the classic tunes will be performed by singers of the opposite gender!
With local audiences hungry for new performances, Central Florida Vocal Arts and Space Coast Symphony Orchestra are excited to announce that the show must go on… online! The two organizations who have been collaborating since 2016 will meet again this August to perform a Gender Bender revue, a digital concert experience featuring the finest local talent performing beloved musical theater and opera pieces, but with a twist: all of the classic tunes will be performed by singers of the opposite gender!
Have you ever wondered what the Impossible Dream might sound like interpreted by a gifted mezzo soprano? Or what if instead of a Dancing Queen, a Dancing KING were to take the stage? For just a $10 digital ticket, audiences can attend our digital broadcast (via Facebook private group and private YouTube Live link) on Friday, August 28th and Saturday, August 29th with interactive commentary. Ticketholders will also have access to the performance via YouTube after the premiere. These performances will be filmed by the talented Tyla Harrington of ViewHouse Productions, a Black-female owned production company as we continue our commitment to supporting our BIPOC community.
On these same evenings, Space Coast audiences will have the opportunity to enjoy this performance live at Drive In concert venues.
Producer and Executive Director, Theresa Smith-Levin asserts “We are committed to continuing to provide audiences with outstanding performances during this pandemic. While nothing replaces the magic of live theatre, we have an obligation to our network of artists and audiences to continue to program new performances and innovate new methods of delivery. Digitally prepared and drive in performances provide the perfect medium to do so”.
Local opera and musical theatre veterans, Morgan Davis Peckels, Bryan Hayes, Desiree Montes, David Bracamonte, Sarah Stead and Jacob Pence under the baton of Space Coast Symphony maestro, Aaron Collins will bring musical magic and artistry to audiences, wherever they may be. Enjoy a world class performance from the safety and comfort of your own home, while supporting the longevity of performing arts in your community for just a $10.00 ticket.
With local audiences hungry for new performances, Central Florida Vocal Arts and Space Coast Symphony Orchestra are excited to announce that the show must go on… online! The two organizations who have been collaborating since 2016 will meet again this August to perform a Gender Bender revue, a digital concert experience featuring the finest local talent performing beloved musical theater and opera pieces, but with a twist: all of the classic tunes will be performed by singers of the opposite gender!
Have you ever wondered what the Impossible Dream might sound like interpreted by a gifted mezzo soprano? Or what if instead of a Dancing Queen, a Dancing KING were to take the stage? For just a $10 digital ticket, audiences can attend our digital broadcast (via Facebook private group and private YouTube Live link) on Friday, August 28th and Saturday, August 29th with interactive commentary. Ticketholders will also have access to the performance via YouTube after the premiere. These performances will be filmed by the talented Tyla Harrington of ViewHouse Productions, a Black-female owned production company as we continue our commitment to supporting our BIPOC community.
On these same evenings, Space Coast audiences will have the opportunity to enjoy this performance live at Drive In concert venues.
Producer and Executive Director, Theresa Smith-Levin asserts “We are committed to continuing to provide audiences with outstanding performances during this pandemic. While nothing replaces the magic of live theatre, we have an obligation to our network of artists and audiences to continue to program new performances and innovate new methods of delivery. Digitally prepared and drive in performances provide the perfect medium to do so”.
Local opera and musical theatre veterans, Morgan Davis Peckels, Bryan Hayes, Desiree Montes, David Bracamonte, Sarah Stead and Jacob Pence under the baton of Space Coast Symphony maestro, Aaron Collins will bring musical magic and artistry to audiences, wherever they may be. Enjoy a world class performance from the safety and comfort of your own home, while supporting the longevity of performing arts in your community for just a $10.00 ticket.
Screenshots from the Digital Production "GENDER BENDER"
Streaming Now!
Streaming Now!
Click me for more info on the Empower the Arts Campaign.
Grab your kids or yourself and hang with me and my little ones as I (maybe we) sing through some of the songs that often get played or sung on repeat in my house.
"In a world that is filled with tension and uncertainty, Desiree Montes finds a mental reset whenever she is close to her children. They dance and sing together each day, taking a break from the world around them. In this virtual cabaret performance, she’ll be performing some of the songs they like to sing the most.
Desiree Montes is a beloved performer throughout Central Florida. She appeared as ‘the Witch’ in the inaugural production of Into the Woods in the Theatre program at CFCArts, and also traveled to New York City as ‘Lydia’ in Flying Lessons at the New York Musical Festival. Some of her favorite roles include ‘Billie Holiday’ in Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill, ‘Sarah’ in Ragtime, ‘Aida’ in Aida, and ‘Norma’ in Hands on a Hardbody."
Pay-what-you-will tickets start at $5
50% of your ticket price goes directly to the performer, and 50% goes to support CFCArts!
"In a world that is filled with tension and uncertainty, Desiree Montes finds a mental reset whenever she is close to her children. They dance and sing together each day, taking a break from the world around them. In this virtual cabaret performance, she’ll be performing some of the songs they like to sing the most.
Desiree Montes is a beloved performer throughout Central Florida. She appeared as ‘the Witch’ in the inaugural production of Into the Woods in the Theatre program at CFCArts, and also traveled to New York City as ‘Lydia’ in Flying Lessons at the New York Musical Festival. Some of her favorite roles include ‘Billie Holiday’ in Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill, ‘Sarah’ in Ragtime, ‘Aida’ in Aida, and ‘Norma’ in Hands on a Hardbody."
Pay-what-you-will tickets start at $5
50% of your ticket price goes directly to the performer, and 50% goes to support CFCArts!
Les Miserables Virtual Orchestra for Black Lives Matter:
Do You Hear the People Sing?
Enjoy 100+ musicians from around the world.
Breonna Taylor's murderers are still free. Keep fighting the good fight, and bring those awful people to JUSTICE. Do you HEAR the people SING?!
Do You Hear the People Sing?
Enjoy 100+ musicians from around the world.
Breonna Taylor's murderers are still free. Keep fighting the good fight, and bring those awful people to JUSTICE. Do you HEAR the people SING?!
I was approached by Central Florida Vocal Arts and along with many other performers given an opportunity to have my voice heard via their platform in support of the #BlackLivesMatterMovement and in support of Black Theatre Girl Magic BTGM
(Please consider donating at: https://www.facebook.com/donate/19556...)
When asked to perform a song that reflected what I am feeling currently, this piece spoke to me. It and the artist who made this song famous are both near and dear to my heart. Thank you Cesar De La Rosa for lending your talents and time to help me bring this video together.
(Please consider donating at: https://www.facebook.com/donate/19556...)
When asked to perform a song that reflected what I am feeling currently, this piece spoke to me. It and the artist who made this song famous are both near and dear to my heart. Thank you Cesar De La Rosa for lending your talents and time to help me bring this video together.
Thank you for asking me to contribute to this project
Krystal Arvelo
"“Speechless” from the live-action Aladdin movie originally performed by Naomi Scott, arranged as a trio. If you’ve seen the “choose your class” meme, I’m the bard. This is my way of expressing my thoughts about the Black Lives Matter movement and paying tribute.
Part 1 is a trio that I arranged (with the help of Iris Johnson on some of the alto notes) and I am so grateful to have the talents of Iris and Desiree Montes on this track. These ladies are ridiculously talented, brilliant, brave, and abundantly kind. Thank you both for doing this, for believing in this vision, for bringing your beautiful voices to the project, and for being you.
Part 2 is where we #SayTheirNames. A special thanks to everyone who took the time to record themselves and participate. It means the world.
On the eve of Juneteenth, I hope this video is meaningful to you. It is my heart and soul on display. If it touches you, please donate to Black Lives Matter or one of the many organizations that is helping the cause, educate yourself on anti-racism books as well as black fiction and art, vote in the elections to effect change, and speak out."
Krystal Arvelo
"“Speechless” from the live-action Aladdin movie originally performed by Naomi Scott, arranged as a trio. If you’ve seen the “choose your class” meme, I’m the bard. This is my way of expressing my thoughts about the Black Lives Matter movement and paying tribute.
Part 1 is a trio that I arranged (with the help of Iris Johnson on some of the alto notes) and I am so grateful to have the talents of Iris and Desiree Montes on this track. These ladies are ridiculously talented, brilliant, brave, and abundantly kind. Thank you both for doing this, for believing in this vision, for bringing your beautiful voices to the project, and for being you.
Part 2 is where we #SayTheirNames. A special thanks to everyone who took the time to record themselves and participate. It means the world.
On the eve of Juneteenth, I hope this video is meaningful to you. It is my heart and soul on display. If it touches you, please donate to Black Lives Matter or one of the many organizations that is helping the cause, educate yourself on anti-racism books as well as black fiction and art, vote in the elections to effect change, and speak out."
“𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐢𝐭𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟, 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐰𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝” -Stevie Wonder
I'd like to thank my collaborator & Audio/Video Producer Cesar De La Rosa for dedicating so much time and care to this project. Special thanks to Beau Mahurin for providing all of the customized rehearsal material we needed straight from your fingertips. To my Artists, thank you not only for your professionalism and tremendous talent, but for baring your souls, being open to vulnerability and sharing your hearts through this project.
Artists: Desiree Montes, Elodie S. Germain, Virginia Roebuck, Jade Jones, Qiana Nioka D'Shaun Miles, Michael Morman, Brandon Martin, Casey Gulledge, Will Scott, Jamaal K. Solomon
I'd like to thank my collaborator & Audio/Video Producer Cesar De La Rosa for dedicating so much time and care to this project. Special thanks to Beau Mahurin for providing all of the customized rehearsal material we needed straight from your fingertips. To my Artists, thank you not only for your professionalism and tremendous talent, but for baring your souls, being open to vulnerability and sharing your hearts through this project.
Artists: Desiree Montes, Elodie S. Germain, Virginia Roebuck, Jade Jones, Qiana Nioka D'Shaun Miles, Michael Morman, Brandon Martin, Casey Gulledge, Will Scott, Jamaal K. Solomon
"As some of our communities start to “open” back up we will be producing a musical series called “OPENING UP!” The series will include some of our favorite Broadway opening numbers and feature the amazing talent we’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with in the past. We hope this brings some light and fun to your day!" -KelsayMoralesCasting
Next up: Skid Row from Little Shop of Horrors! Enjoy!
Next up: Skid Row from Little Shop of Horrors! Enjoy!
BGVS for Josh Groban (Bridges Tour 2020 Florida)
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“Flying Lessons” has received several awards and was a finalist for several others. These awards were evaluated by a team of judges in the audience.
It’s still hard for me to believe that our little show went to the New York Musical Festival, much less walked away with the reviews that we did and now with some awards to boot. Thank you to every person who helped make this all possible!
It’s still hard for me to believe that our little show went to the New York Musical Festival, much less walked away with the reviews that we did and now with some awards to boot. Thank you to every person who helped make this all possible!
Coral/Peach
Finding Nemo: The Musical - Closing Cast
(Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom)
Finding Nemo: The Musical - Closing Cast
(Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom)
BGVS "This is Me" (Miss America Teen 2019)
Online radio noir series
Tune in to hear me voice-over as the sassy, jazz & blues singing Nola native "Louise Olivier"
Seasons 1-3 airing exclusively at
www.nolanoir.com
Seasons 1-3 airing exclusively at
www.nolanoir.com
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