Palisades High has graduated a large number of students who have gone on to excel in music, film and television, including Redfoo, will.i.am, Lauren London, Jeff Bridges, Forest Whitaker, Willa Holland, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Erin Gray, J.J. Abrams, Scott Alexander, David Baerwald, Alex Greenwald, David Holt, Penelope Ann Miller, David and Thomas Newman, Tom and Manfred Hofer, Philp Price, Katey Sagal, Amy Smart and Helene York.
This weekend, residents can be entertained by the next generation of up-and-coming entertainers without having to leave town as the Pali Concert Choir presents “Sounds of Cinema,” a theme concert featuring music from movies.
Choral Director Jaco Wong, in an email to Circling the News, said: “Our Concert Choir will be putting on the biggest concert of the year this coming weekend, featuring music from films. We will be joined by an orchestra and jazz band to perform countless cinematic favorites. Music contributes tremendously to films, creating long-lasting emotions and memories.”
Wong promises songs from the likes of “Singing in the Rain” and “La La Land” to “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and “Skyfall.” There will be movie clips to go with the songs and popcorn available.
“This concert will cheer you up,” Wong said.
The show is at 7 p.m. on Friday, February 21 and Saturday, February 22, in Mercer Hall on campus. To purchase tickets visit: www.kindest.com/events/sounds-of-cinema-fri. Students are $5, general admission is $15 and VIP tickets are $25. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.
The choir sang for veterans at the annual Christmas/Chanukah luncheon at the American Legion last December, and the audience was energized and excited by the performers.
Wong said that his choir budget was cut about 50 percent this past year. “It is not currently possible for Pali to fund our program, and we have to be self-sustaining,” he said. “Costs include equipment, choir folders, risers, music scores, and performance expenses.”
This spring the choir makes its annual San Francisco Tour to perform in major venues and attend educational events. Admission revenue this weekend will help fund the tour.
“I hope the community can come support us,” Wong said. “It should be a fun night.”