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ARTS + CULTURE
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
HIGHLIGHTS Over the Rainbow The Community AIDS Network hosted a “Wizard of Oz” sing-along event May 15, at The Francis. Here are some of the best-dressed at the event. See more photos online at YourObserver.com.
Scott Perry and Daryl Lyle
Photo by Nick Reichert
Stevie Lee Romero says he either wants to have a career in acting or in medicine. To him, both help make people feel better.
Photos by Nick Reichert
Crystal Valles and Cheyenne Garry
“The first number, which was ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow,’ got everybody singing, and they kept singing. It exceeded our expectations. The age range was from 20 to 91. At the end of the evening, I mentioned doing ‘The Sound of Music’ next year and the audience stood up and clapped.” – Scott George, Community AIDS Network director of development
Red slippers help decorate the venue.
Generous Act Stevie Lee Romero got his shot on the big stage last year in Asolo Repertory Theatre’s production of ‘The Grapes of Wrath.’ Now, he’s giving back.
NICK REICHERT A&E EDITOR
S
tevie Lee Romero remembers when acting became more than a hobby. In fact, he remembers the exact moment. It was December 2010. Romero, then 10, was onstage at the Manatee Players Riverfront Theatre in the title role of “Oliver!” He portrayed the quickwitted, charismatic, spunky character with ease. “It was my first role that counted,” says the 14-year-old who had acted in a few other community theater productions before. “I like it because you can be different people at one time, but still be the same person when you go home.”
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