A New Tune at the Belvedere
On a Sunday evening in June, the Belvedere Inn was packed. For the first time in more than a year, their long beloved cabaret night was back—and it seemed as if everyone in Lancaster had turned out for their triumphant return.
At least, that’s how it felt to Lindsay Bretz Morgan, who recently took over hosting and organizing the event series. “Theatre and music have been my passions forever,” Bretz Morgan shared with FLL. “And I am so thrilled to have the chance to revitalize such a beloved tradition.”
And while it might have been the easier route to simply coast on the excitement so many are currently feeling for the return to live events, Bretz Morgan, alongside pianist Scott Williams, are shaking things up at the Belvedere. Once a weekly event, the cabaret night—officially titled “Showtunes Sunday”—will now be held just once a month, every second Sunday from 8:30 to 10:30 PM. Anyone is welcome to show up and sing; sign-ups will be open throughout each event.
“We have so much talent in this area and we really want to promote those folks. That’s our main goal,” explains Bretz Morgan. “We would love to host theme nights with local theatres, like the Fulton Theatre, EPAC, Prima, the American Music Theatre, and others. We also plan to invite special guest hosts, so keep an eye out.”
Performers of all ages and experience levels are welcome to make their debut at the Belvedere. In June, a few teenagers who are involved in local performing arts programs sang, and Bretz Morgan describes the atmosphere as electric.
“There was truly a joyous, celebratory feeling in the room,” she says. “It was very relaxed. Parents came with their teens, and the adults in the room just really supported them. It was a wonderful experience for everyone involved. The 16- and 17-year-olds who sang were able to make connections for their future, as well.”
Reservations are recommended for those who would like to have a table during the event (the kitchen stays open an hour later on Showtunes Sundays), but there is also standing room around the bar. For more information and a schedule of upcoming cabaret events, be sure to visit the Belvedere’s Facebook page at facebook.com/belvedere.inn.
