February 7, 2017
A comet blazed a trail of light and stardust over New York’s Imperial Theatre—and cast its glow over members of The McCallen and The Loughlin Societies, students, professors, and friends of St. John’s University—as they attended the hit Broadway musical, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 on January 28.
The dazzling performance, based on a segment from the classic War and Peace tome, recreated Moscow’s opulent salon scene in 1812 as Napoleon’s armies advanced and young men were quick to drink, love, and duel. Of course, the ladies, in all their fine evening wear and flirtatious intrigues, were ever present.
“This particular event was special because it represented all constituents—faculty, students, and donors—sharing a cultural and educational experience, as well as socializing together, which made for an unforgettable time,” noted Susan M. Damiani ’87CBA, Director of the Office of Gift Planning.
The uniqueness of the staging added to the experience as performers interacted with audience members. The theatre was transformed to have pathways wend through the audience with some seats on the main stage. One lucky audience member on the stage even received a kiss on the cheek from the play’s bad boy, Anatole Kuragin, played by Lucas Steele. Creative light effects, and a star-studded cast led by singer Josh Groban, had the St. John’s contingent afterward thinking ahead to their next theatre outing.
“It was a great show—everything from the historical origins to the wonderful dancing and singing,” said Frank Le Veness, Ph.D. ’63Ed, ’64G, ’68Ph.D., a government and politics professor at St. John’s who was accompanied by his grandson. “We had a wonderful time.”
“I thought the show was terrific! It made me curious enough to want to read the book,” said Anna Lukachik ’80Ed, a member of The Loughlin Society.
Joann Heaney-Hunter, Ph.D. ’78C, ’81G, a theology and religious studies professor at St. John’s, and her husband, Gregory Hunter, Ph.D. ’75C, who are new members of The McCallen Society, said they had a fantastic evening.
When asked how it felt to be a new member of The McCallen Society, Dr. Heaney-Hunter said, “I’ve been a part of the St. John’s family for a very long time, so this is just one more level.”
After the play, the group dined at the nearby Daniela Trattoria, where they discussed the show and reminisced about St. John’s University. “Everybody was sitting together at the restaurant, there was great food and great company—it was just a perfect day,” said Dr. Heaney-Hunter.
To learn more about becoming a member of The McCallen Society and establishing your legacy through planned gifts to St. John’s, please contact Susan M. Damiani at 718-990-7562; [email protected]. Visit The McCallen Society webpage at stjohns.edu/giftplanning to learn about upcoming events.