The idea came to her
after wrapping up “Bible
on Broadway” last April —
the first production at The
Strand involving kids. “I’d
been dreaming of starting a
youth show choir to serve the
community,” says Mangini,
who resides in Cranberry. “I
used to direct a show choir at
Shenango High School, and
I watched the kids blossom
during performances. I wanted
to recreate that magic. After
discussing my ideas with Ron
Carter, we decided to give the
project a go.”
The group includes 35
members, ranging in age
from 7 to 15. “The kids come from a variety of backgrounds and skill
levels,” says Mangini. “Aside from being a performance group, The
StrandTastics serve as an educational program, strengthening the kids’
acting, singing and dancing skills. I’m willing to work with beginner
students if they exhibit a passion for performing and work hard during
rehearsals.”
intended for me. The best part about performing is potentially
touching the lives of others and making them smile.”
Carter appreciates the many hats that Mangini wears at the theater.
“She’s performed in several of our original concerts and full-cast
productions including a solo concert of her own called “Torch Songs.”
She’s also served as our Youth Choral Director when we’ve produced
shows with large youth casts. She’s such an incredible talent, and we
feel privileged that she enjoys performing at The Strand as well as
teaching a new generation about the performing arts. She pretty much
rocks!”
After viewing a StrandTastics performance, Mangini isn’t the only
one that rocks. Besides showing off their vocal talents, the kids really
know how to get their dance on. “We love to sing and dance,” says
Mangini. “I try to choose songs that will entertain audiences of all
ages, as well as be enjoyable for the kids. I aim to include a variety of
genres and ability levels to educate the children while having a great
time. As far as choreography is concerned, I just create a combination
of dance steps that seem to fit well with the music and are not too
difficult for little legs.”
The StrandTastics have performed at the Pittsburgh Zoo for the
National Kidney Foundation Walk, in the streets of Harmony for the
German Christmas Market, at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille, and at various
churches and club events. They also performed an original, one-act
Christmas musical at The Strand.
“The group brings so much joy to my life,” says Mangini. “Not only
can they sing and dance, but they have the most beautiful hearts I’ve
seen in young people. They respect and encourage each other during
rehearsals. It’s a beautiful thing to witness. We’re having a blast serving
the community.”
Future performances include a spring show at The Strand on June 4
and 5, with other events in the planning stages. For more information
on booking The StrandTastics for an event, contact Mary Ann
Mangini at maremang@gmail.com. To learn more about The Strand
Theater, visit thestrandtheater.org. ■
Mangini, who holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from
Grove City College, has the experience to make that happen. Some
of her many accomplishments include performing professionally
throughout the Pittsburgh region with notable TV and Broadway
stars such as Paige Davis, Brad Little, Terri Bibb, Yvette Lawrence,
Leslie Alexander, Dana Mellor, James Mellon and John Shull. She’s
also taught choir, music and drama at both Shenango High School
in Shenango Township and Riverview School District in Oakmont.
Along with being The Strand’s Children’s Music Director, she
currently tours the Pittsburgh area with her jazz quintet and teaches
voice/piano lessons at her home studio.
“When I am performing, I feel complete,” says Mangini. “It lights
me up from the inside out and makes me feel I’m doing what God
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