BENEFIT CONCERT FOR SAN MIGUEL PROGRAM OF NEWBURGH

Bernie William

The “Swingin”™ into Spring” Benefit Concert for the San Miguel Program of Newburgh will be presented by Frank Shiner and Orchestra 914, May 14, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Chappaqua Performing Arts Center in Chappaqua.

Westchester thespian turned businessman, Shiner, is covering the cost of the entire concert so that 100% of the ticket price will go to San Miguel”™s co-ed educational services program for underprivileged, at-risk students in Newburgh.

“The students in this program ”“ their life could”™ve been tragic,” said Shiner. “But because of San Miguel”™s direct interventions, they go on to secondary schools, colleges, careers and become productive members of their communities.”  

Shiner was Broadway bound when the show was abruptly cancelled. With a young family to feed, he put his theater career on hold and went into health care payment sales becoming founder and CEO of Westchester-based Rectangle Health, a health care payment systems company. 

But music and acting never left his soul. After a two-decade hiatus, he sang at an open mic night at the request of his wife. One song, two, then three ”“ and Frank was back in show business.   

The May 14, show will be a big band performance, backed by 22 pieces from the Orchestra 914. “My typical sound is blues and soul, but I wanted this to be upbeat and different. We”™ll do 12 to 15 songs that will have people tapping their feet,” Shiner said. 

General admission is $50; sponsor San Miguel student or family member $50; and premium admission with post-performance reception $75.