What would you like to know about St. Joan of Arc? Do you have a story about our parish or of general interest that you think others would like to hear? For story ideas, contact Jeff Rholl, jeff@stjoan.com.

JoAnn Potts got so caught up in the energy in hearing the musicians warm up for this year’s “First Reel Cabaret” that it was hard for her to tear herself away to leave.

And that was only the rehearsal.

This wonderful festive occasion that is Cabaret at St. Joan of Arc marks its 10th year in 2004. It is an in-demand event that makes people jockey for position to get tables, change their schedules to be there, and even travel great distances. For many regular attendees, it is a night of people coming together for a good cause and great sense of community, and to hear performances from some of the greatest talents this area has to offer.

But why do the musicians pass up other performance opportunities to play at Cabaret year after year? To hear some of them tell their stories, it turns out they come for much the same reasons we “fans” do.

Anna Mae Vagle:

“The gathering of musicians for the SJA Cabaret is unlike any other I have ever experienced.  It is a "working" night in which musicians wander in and out of each other's music, playing…adding their special touches…and the feeling is always of goodwill.  It is supportive and just plain FUN!  As a working musician I do not get to hear my other musician friends perform as often as I would like.  This night provides the big party for this to happen and the "reunion" is simply a wonderful connection. For St. Joan of Arc musicians, this evening is a huge project in which we all participate...give many hours of rehearsal…work out music as a group...support each other's performances and have a "blast!"  This feeling of participation and goodwill takes us a long way through the year...the connection has been made.  I feel particularly good that so many people from the parish can connect and become part of the community working together and having a great time.  It's an event like no other around here!!!”

Tim Frantzich (Brothers Frantzich):

“This was our first year and it just continued to reinforce what we already know... SJA is a special place.  There is an openness, a flowing, creative feeling in that room.  It's hard to describe but as performers we can feel the room immediately.  SJA seems to have avoided that crossed arms cynicism that is so pervasive, or maybe it's just that we sense there is an ability to dance.  So then, couple that with an evening of hanging out with great artists, watching great performances and contributing to the mix... and we have a powerful cocktail that causes the clouds to part and the sun to break through. That's it! We could feel the sun there.”
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Ann Reed

Ann Reed:

“This year was my first cabaret and I don't remember the last time I had that much fun. As a musician, you look around and there are incredible musicians: Dan Chouinard, Peter Ostroushko, Prudence Johnson, Debbie Duncan, Bruce Henry - every last one of the artists involved in the show amazing. St. Joan's is one of the few places where any person stepping across the threshold, feels immediately a part of the community. I think St. Joan's is the living, breathing definition of Community. And that is something to be celebrated.”

Robert Robinson:

“In short, I enjoy the spirit of St. Joan of Arc.  I know that the Cabaret is a fund raiser for the work that the church is doing, and I'm excited to be a part of that.  However, I most enjoy the open and inclusive attitude of St. Joan's parishioners.  They are wonderful people who have lovingly embraced me and my talents.  I'll be forever grateful for the love they show me every time I walk through the door.  And...it's not such a difficult task to perform on the same program with the likes of Gwen Matthews, Debbie Duncan, Prudence Johnson, Dennis Spears, Paul Peterson, Peter Ostroushko, Billy McLaughlin, Bruce Henry, and on and on the list goes.  I consider it a blessing that they'd ask a lowly gospel singer, such as myself, to come and share a few musical chants with the audience.”

Joe and Dan Chouinard
Joe Chouinard:

“Well, I love the Cabaret for several reasons.  For one thing, it's great to get reconnected to the musicians, many of whom I haven't seen much in the past year.  Also, there's opportunities to get to know them a bit more than you would going out to see them elsewhere.  The real high I get at the Cabaret is just the fact that so many of the incredibly talented musicians in this town come together at a church to speak their "gospel." The environment fosters a positive energy that is hard to beat.”

Bruce A. Henry:

“I came to SJA originally because of Dan Chouinard. I have been a fan of the Chouinard family for years, having first met Dan's brother Bill while performing at Rupert’s Nightclub. I was next attracted to the Vagles and their positive, upbeat, supportive energy. Now I look forward to the SJA audience. Those guys are fantastic. I meet people all throughout the year saying, "Hey, we love you at the Cabaret".  It's great to connect with so many new friends and fans.”

Music is indeed a powerfully communicating tool, touching not only those on the receiving end, but those who make it as well. Cabaret is a unique setting in which the difference between the performers and audience becomes only how far away they’re sitting, united in collective joy and community.

Writer, speaker, consultant, administrative professional, Wendy Vickers, has been an active supporter and encourager of local musicians in the Twin Cities music community for several years. Her online newsletter on local coffeehouse performers and other music-related activities can be found on her website at www.wendyv.com .
The next one’s only months away…mark your calendars and make your plans now!

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