On May 2, 2025, Cardinal Newman’s Fine Arts Department presented Journey the Night Away at the Duncan Theatre at Palm Beach State College, showcasing the exceptional talent of over 100 students in grades 9–12. The concert featured performances by the Beginning Concert Percussion Ensemble, Chorus I, Women’s Chorus, Honors Chorus, Vocal Soloists, and the Concert Wind Ensemble.
The evening served not only as a performance but also as a celebration of student achievement, musical growth, and community. Special senior ceremonies honored the graduating Class of 2025, and the concert highlighted both group and individual accomplishments from throughout the year.
Concert Highlights
Ensemble performances under the direction of Chorus/Music Director Roberta Rehner included Carry the Light, For Good from Wicked, and Another Day of Sun.
Stunning vocal solos were performed by Gabriella Salandy, Charlie Gusmano, Sophia Perez, Lily Monteiro, and a duet by Elias and John Azzi.
The Concert Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Band Director David Bayardelle and Percussion Director Michael Rivero, performed selections including Pirates of the Caribbean, El Camino Real, You’ll Never Walk Alone from Carousel, and The Fairest of the Fair.
Other News
Several band students earned Superior ratings at District Solo Evaluations and State competitions:
Snare Drum: James Wandtke – Superior (District), Excellent (State)
Alto Sax: Agatha Isaac, Isabella Anderson, Luke Dabu, Emma Pientka, Sophia Correa
Trombone: Luis Sardina, Isabelle Beausejour
Clarinet: Olivia Nocera
Flute: Cybella Mir
Tenor Sax: Nicholas Ramos
Percussion: Matthew Dabu, David Morales-Morales
Beyond the Stage
This year, the Fine Arts Department created unforgettable experiences for students:
In February, the Band, Chorus, Art Departments, and Spirit Dance Team participated in Disney Imagination Campus at Walt Disney World. Chorus students recorded a soundtrack to Disney’s Frozen, while band members and dancers marched down Main Street, USA.
Art Club students, led by Mrs. Haley, also joined in this immersive arts education experience.
Grease, Halftime Shows, and More
Congratulations to following Choral students who starred in the musical theater production of GREASE in April: Charlie Gusmano (Danny), Sophia Perez (Sandy), Lily Monteiro (Jan), Riley Gorman (Frenchy), Tessa O’Sullivan (Rizzo), Elizabeth Allaga (Mrs. Lynch), Elias Azzi (Johnny Casino), Ella Goodrich (Sonny), Victoria Miquel (Eugene), Valentina Sharoubim (Cha-Cha), Lyla Perry and Gabi Salandy (ensemble). Thank you to Ms. Rehner who served as the Vocal Director/Rehearsal Pianist for the production.
The CN Band performed at the Miami Heat Halftime Show, home basketball games, and lacrosse games.
Other Performances
The Chorus/Mass Ensemble, directed by Ms. Rehner, perform at the Baccalaureate Mass on May 9 at Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola.
The CN Band directed by Mr Bayardelle, along with senior vocalists Sophia Perez, Lily Monteiro, and Charlie Gusmano (coached by Ms. Rehner) will perform the National Anthem at Graduation on May 12 at the Kravis Center.
Underclassmen chorus members will sing at the May Crowning Mass on May 15.
Performances at Rosarian Academy’s Pep Rally and Freshman Orientation.
From classroom to concert hall, Disney to Main Street, and stage to stadium, the Cardinal Newman Fine Arts Department continues to inspire students to grow as performers, musicians, and leaders.
Bravo to all our talented Crusaders—what a year!
Photo Credit: Jodi Mennes