SAD NEWS: NY area cabaret fans were stunned last week to receive word of the passing of singer/vocal coach/entertainer Marianne Challis who died peacefully in her New York City studio on Thursday, August 29th. Marianne was a professional voice teacher in New York City and primarily taught Broadway theater professionals. She also served as a vocal technician for organizations such as Disney Productions and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. But to cabaret fans she was the "ultimate party girl", presenting an annual stream of highly popular and highly entertaining cabaret shows. Ms. Challis and her adoring husband of 30 years operated Broadway Boot Camp, a workshop for young actors and musical theater performers through their Southport Studio Theater program, teaching their unique blend of developmental acting and musical theater training. Always full of life, and full of fun, Ms. Challis was an exciting person to know, and one always felt special and alive in her presence. Funeral services were held on Sunday, September 2nd, attended by friends and admirers from near and far. Sue Matsuki attended the service and has written a report on the celebration which will be on the website shortly. Memorial gifts may be made to the "Marianne Challis Scholarship Fund" for students persuing musical theater - via Southport Studio Theater, 1305 Jennings Rd., Fairfield, CT 06824; or Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS,165 West 46th Street #1300, NY, NY 10036.copyright 2011-12 - See cabaret listings from all over the world at CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE - YOU ARE WELCOME TO POST YOUR COMMENTS BELOW
