Musical Tribute For Frank Jasensky October 23 to Benefit ALS Association

Musical Tribute For Frank Jasensky October 23 to Benefit ALS Association 

Musicals at Richter (MAR), celebrating its 32nd season as the longest-running outdoor theater in Connecticut, will recognize the contributions of longtime volunteer and Danbury resident Frank Jasensky in a Broadway-style musical tribute on Sunday, October 23 at The Palace Danbury Theatre in Danbury at 3 p.m.  A reception will follow.  All proceeds benefit the ALS Association – Connecticut Chapter.

The October 23 revue features a program of Broadway favorites performed by a talented group of Richter veterans and friends, including Christopher Gladysz (Brewster, NY); Elyse Jasensky, Barbara Kessler and Priscilla Squiers (Danbury); Juliette Garrison Koch (Millbrook, NY); Robert Bria (Redding); and Chris Matthews (Yorktown Heights, NY). Emceed by John McMahon (Newtown), the afternoon’s offerings are under the musical direction of Dan Koch (Millbrook, NY).

Affectionately known as “Father Goose,” Frank Jasensky has been the tireless volunteer technical director and sound engineer for MAR’s popular Fairy Tale Theater series, which completed its 18^th season at the Wooster School this past July. The Fairy Tale Theater troupe is comprised of young local actors who perform hour-long, interactive versions of classic children’s tales.  The beloved play series is adapted and directed by Mr. Jasensky’s wife, longtime performer and educator Elyse Jasensky, who narrates the performances as Mother Goose.

In addition to his work with Fairy Tale Theater, Mr. Jasensky has also volunteered in various technical capacities for the MAR main stage productions over the years, even making an onstage appearance in a production of  “Guys and Dolls.”

The October 23 musical revue and reception benefits the ALS Association – Connecticut Chapter, the only national not-for-profit health organization dedicated solely to the fight against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).  Also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord, robbing patients of their ability to walk, talk and eventually, breathe. The ALS Association covers all the bases — research, patient and community services, public education, and advocacy — in providing help and hope to those facing the disease. Mr. Jasensky was diagnosed with ALS last year.

The Palace Danbury is located at 165 Main Street in Danbury. The suggested donation is $20 and all proceeds benefit the ALS –Connecticut Chapter. Reservations are not required but are suggested for planning purposes.  To RSVP, email alsfundraiser@musicalsatrichter.org. For additional information on this and other MAR programs, visit the website or leave a message at 203-748-6873.