Inaugural Midway Multicultural Music and Film Festival
On February 1st, 2020 The Midway Multicultural Music and Film Festival hosted their first awards ceremony, and Melissa and I were pleased and honored to be in attendance.
We found ourselves seated among the performing artists, media content creators and local politicians at a swimwear fashion show featuring the designs of Solvieg Cirone of Cirone Swim Swimwear. (You can follow her on Instagram at :cironeswimlingerie)
Throughout the evening, interspersed with conversations ranging from local community development to the value of art in educational and therapeutic settings, we were regaled by local performers including Mel Soul and Madame Mackintosh.
CHARLOTTE CROSSLEY gave a powerful and touching rendition of “I Know Where I’ve Been” from Hairspray, the musical.
SHELDON REYNOLDS formerly of EARTH, WIND & FIRE, performed “Dancing in September” and got everyone on their feet. Later, he took some time to chat with us, and offer some instruction on the finer points of funk guitar.
SCHERRIE PAYNE, SUSAYE GREENE & JOYCE VINCENT
Sheldon’s performance was followed by SCHERRIE PAYNE & SUSAYE GREENE formerly of THE SUPREMES with JOYCE VINCENT of TONY ORLANDO & DAWN. performing several Supremes songs.
Over the course of the evening we spoke with many of the performers and presenters, and enjoyed some wonderful food. Then, as the event was winding down, and the awards were being distributed, one more little surprise…
Melissa made a beautiful acceptance speech, mentioning Bob Jones, our cast, crew, fans, friends and supporters. I may have felt a little overcome by emotion, wine or altitude, or some combination there-of, as I expressed my love for everyone present and offered to let them come visit us in Seattle and crash at our house. I’ll have to check with our roommates, and stagger the visits.