The
StrandTastics
Under the direction of Cranberry resident Mary Ann
Mangini, The StrandTastics are lighting up local stages.
BY KATHY RUDOLPH
T
he retro-esque facade of Zelienople’s Strand Theater
on North Main Street looks ready for a nostalgic
walk back in time with classic movies and old-time
movie theater candy and popcorn.
But The Strand is much more. Since its reopening in
2009 by The Strand Initiative, the nonprofit has breathed
new life into the performing arts scene, not only for
Zelienople, but for many North Pittsburgh suburbs. Its
offerings include a wide variety of live concerts, both
current and classic movies, musicals and more.
It would only make sense that kids should be involved
in this innovative endeavor, and that’s how The StrandTastics Youth
Choir was born.
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“At The Strand, we’ve been interested in a youth program
for the theater since its Grand Reopening in 2009,”
says Ron Carter, The Strand’s President and Executive
Director. “But time and resources always kept any serious
consideration or pursuit of it on the back burner. So when
Mary Ann approached us about developing a youth show
choir, we jumped on it immediately.”
“Mary Ann” is Mary Ann Mangini, a professional jazz
vocalist, musical performer and educator. “Several years
ago, The Strand began to incorporate children into their
Main Stage productions,” says Mangini. “I was hired to be
the Children’s Music Director, since I had an education background
and love working with kids.”