FROM A NEWS RELEASE

NEGAUNEE — The talented culinary artisans at Strega Nonna are partnering with local playwright Leslie Parkkonen to create a feast for the senses. IronArts, also known as the Peninsula Arts Appreciation Council, is helping to produce the event, which will raise money for the restoration of the Historic Vista Theater.

The premier event is set for Sunday at Strega Nonna, located at 432 Iron St. in Negaunee.

Parkkonen’s “Leading Lady: Stories from the Stage…and Life,” uses musical theatre to blend sharp-witted humor and storytelling while exploring ambition, love, loss and the courage it takes to keep showing up when life goes off-book.

The show also features the talented Claire Decker-Pepin, and Allyse Belanger on vocals, with Negaunee native Marcia Nora Hicks providing accompaniment for the show.

IronArts President Rusty Bowers said he is honored to be involved in a show written by a person as talented as Parkkonen.

“I have known Leslie for decades as a generous and gifted singer, actor and director,” said Bowers. “I have seen her put her heart and soul into Vista Theater shows time and time again. The fact that she’s using her personal journey to benefit the building’s restoration does not surprise me.”

Strega Nonna itself is the perfect venue for such an event, he said.

“Rachael and her staff have been so generous with their time and talent, and I have no doubt this delicious dinner will reflect the care she has for her craft and her community,” said Bowers.

Negaunee’s City Manager Nate Heffron will also make an appearance during the event to share an update on the Vista’s restoration since the city took ownership two years ago. “The work on the Vista is continuing and we know IronArts is eager to help in any way it can,” Heffron said. “The city is grateful to Strega Nonna and all the efforts of everyone involved in this production.”

Doors will open at 5 p.m. Tickets are $75 each and include a buffet dinner, live preshow music with John Mallo, and theatre performance with dessert spread during intermission.

More information can be found at https://strega.fun/events/dinner-theatre-fundraiser-for-paac-vista-ironarts-at-strega-leading-lady