Wednesday, October 21, 2009

By Vinette K. Pryce

CONTINUED

To Sir With Love

                          Sir Willard White

                                             

“I am truly honored to be here,” London-based opera singer Sir Willard White said. A 2007 honoree, the knighted alum was unable to attend then but was formally lauded two years ago for the international success he has attained since leaving the Mountain View Ave. institution. Fortunately, the distinguished opera star was booked at the Metropolitan Opera for a series of concerts and was able to join his colleagues who lavished him with endearing praises and love.

“I saw you on PBS in ‘Porgy & Bess’,” a fellow alum said.

Joined by his son John on Oct. 10, 2009, the bass / baritone, knight accepted the plaque he should have collected two years ago.

He expressed his belated gratitude to the membership that acknowledged his stellar accomplishment in theater and music.

He reflected on the years he honed his skill at the teaching of music teacher Mrs. Fitchett from 1962 to 1967.

As he spoke, alums beamed pride in recalling the European instructor and her penchant for imparting classical compositions to her students.

Former drama student, Long Island resident and independent, marketing executive Basil Marshall related to the poignant legacy. Sir Willard shared recollection of Marshall’s creatively, dramatic capacity. Allegedly, the young, thespian danced with himself – dressed head to toe, half male and half female.

Carberry House won the drama competition that year, Sir Willard stated.

Comic Relief From A Northern Star

Sir Willard shared the honors with Toronto-based, comedian Owen Blakka Ellis, Clarendon-resident Olympian Neville Myton, O.D., Dr. Marcia Livingston and Prof. Maureen Samms-Vaughan, O.D.

Ellis seemed to have imported his own cheering squad from Canada.

Reportedly, he is teaming with Louis Robinson and others to empower the Excelsior alums in Canada to a progressive Excelsior association up north. Ellis said he hopes Canada will follow the example set by the USA chapters in fostering aid to the school.

On this occasion it seems his class of the ‘77 represented because they undoubtedly responded with the most vociferous cheers each time the year was mentioned.

The teacher, writer, performing artist and community development worker took nostalgia to the limit boasting a memorable an unprecedented defeat when his ‘D’ stream colleagues whipped the likely champion “B” streamers in an unforgettable contest he still revels.

That reflection brought laughter to the black-tie crowd. Continued.......