Chamber Fund-Raiser Gets Patrons Out of Their Seats

An interactive nightclub act this past Saturday night enticed many patrons to sing along and pay for the privilege to become stars for the evening.

The first-ever fund-raising event — Pianos for a Purpose — was sponsored by the Pacific Area Chamber of Commerce.

Pianist Phil Manois, a 1993 Pacific High School graduate, was accompanied by pianist Bill Romer. They offered a new take on a dueling piano nightclub act before an audience of 300 at the Eagles Feb. 2.

An eclectic mix of music ranged from old-fashioned rock to country and western and rap, including having the audience members sing along.

The duet paid tribute to the Beatles, Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, Garth Brooks Charlie Daniels and rapper Shock G.

The Chamber hosted the event to replace its former fantasy night festival, and organizers deemed it a success.

“It was a great start,” said Tim Baker, Chamber president.

Seated at round tables, patrons dined on a buffet dinner prepared and served by the Eagles Auxiliary.

In a competitive bidding process, patrons could pay for requests, which often involved someone in the audience performing.

A number of patrons were willing to get onto the stage and help the headliners entertain. Cellphones were often used to photograph or video the performance.

Duke Matlock performed “Twist and Shout.” Trisha Lewis performed three rap numbers.

Greg Horvath knew all the words to the “Devil Went Down to Georgia” as the dueling Manois piano stood in for the legendary fiddle.

Proceeds from the evening will help to upgrade the sound and lighting system at the Pacific High School auditorium.

Final numbers were not available yet on how much money was raised, but organizers said they were happy with the event.