The holiday season is a time to gather with old friends. But in The Villages, newcomers always are welcome.
It was that way Friday at the “Showcase of Talent” holiday program at La Hacienda Recreation Center.
The “Showcase” regulars, led by founders Diana and Joe Arlt, showed up in force but there was also room for a talented newbie.
Anthony Bucci – who moved to The Villages a few months ago from New Jersey with his wife, Aylin – seemed right at home on stage.
Bucci, who has performed in Atlantic City casinos, took the stage and delivered a smooth version of Engelbert Humperdinck’s “Man Without Love.” Then, he teamed with Diana Arlt for a stirring and reverential version of “The Prayer.”
Bucci impressed the locals. “He can really sing,” Arlt said.
“I’m the reason we’re here,” Aylin Bucci said, noting that she urged her husband to come to The Villages. “There’s so much to do here; we love it.”
Anthony Bucci was happy to be in front of a microphone in his new hometown.
“It’s exciting, but I’m treading softly because I’m new,” he said. “But I’m hoping to get more opportunities to sing in The Villages.”
Mark Steven Schmidt has already made his mark here and the tenor delivered a powerful version of “Believe,” from “The Polar Express.”
Schmidt has the rare ability to soar on high notes but also knows when to create a softer sound for an emotional impact.
BJ Odendahl made like a living doll, portraying a wind-up toy and singing “Are My Ears On Straight.” Dave Maurer put on an Elvis suit and saluted the King with his inspirational 1968 song, “If I Can Dream.”
Harmonica man Phil Caltabellotta was as warm and comfortable as a cozy fireplace as he played “The Christmas Song.” Nat King Cole made that number famous but it was written by Mel Torme and Bob Wells.
The Classy Dazzlers – Donna Vogt’s dance troupe – kicked the show off in style with a high-energy performance of “Jingle Bell Rock.”
Violet Ray and the Aloha ‘O Ka Hula dancers captured the true, spiritual meaning of Christmas with their choreography on “Silent Night.” Diana Arlt also brought deep meaning to “Ave Maria.”
The Madrigal Gals and Guys are Villages’ singers who hark back to the Renaissance tradition of “madrigal” songs. The music is traditionally from poetry and performed by small, a cappella groups. The local group has been together for about a year, and sang two numbers, including “Alleluia Madrigal.”
Tony Violanti is a veteran journalist and writes for Villages-News.com.
