A Night to Remember: The Chorus of Westerly’s 2025 Summer Pops

Allie Woodard Photo

Allie Woodard Photo

Allie Woodard Photo

Mary Kate Morrissey performs during her guest set | Allie Woodard Photo

A Band Called POP performs in the pre-show | Allie Woodard Photo

Big Lux performs during his guest set | Allie Woodard Photo

The Westerly Morris Men perform in the pre-show | Allie Woodard Photo

Arthur Migliazza performs in the pre-show | Allie Woodard Photo

This year’s Summer Pops by the Chorus of Westerly was more than a concert, it was a celebration, a tribute, and a night of heartfelt community connection that will echo in Wilcox Park for years to come. Under a sky graced with perfect weather—the first in several years, the event drew one of its largest and most enthusiastic crowds in recent memory.

There was a palpable sense of something special in the air, and for good reason. Not only were the featured guest performers Broadway’s Mary Kate Morrissey, fresh from starring as Elphaba in Wicked, and local favorite Big Lux, but many also came to honor the legacy of George Kent, the Chorus’ beloved founder, who sadly passed just days before the performance. His memory was ever-present, and his influence could be felt in every note and in the spirit of the evening.

The night began with a stellar pre-show lineup. Boogie-woogie pianist Arthur Migliazza brought infectious energy to the early evening, as well as the talented young musicians of United Music School’s student-led group, A Band Called POP, whose fresh enthusiasm set a joyful tone. And, as tradition dictates, no Summer Pops would be complete without a lively appearance from the Westerly Morris Men, whose jigs and bells added that unmistakable Chorus of Westerly flair.

Music Director Andrew Howell and Resident Composer John Tafone curated an extraordinary program this year. An inspired blend of genres and eras that was, simply put, all killer, no filler. From pop to Broadway, film scores to timeless Chorus of Westerly favorites, the selections felt both nostalgic and fresh. Tafone’s arrangements were a standout. Goosebump-inducing pieces that masterfully balanced orchestral brilliance with choral richness. Howell’s leadership was, once again, masterful. His grace, humor, and passion on the podium continue to show why he was the perfect leader to carry the Chorus forward into its next chapter.

The featured guest artists brought the house—or rather, the park, down. Big Lux, Westerly’s own genre-defying violinist and rapper, lit up the stage with his fiery rendition of “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” followed by two original pieces that were emotional, thoughtful, and full of energy. He reminded everyone why Westerly is so proud to call him one of its own.

Then came Mary Kate Morrissey, whose presence elevated the evening to Broadway heights. From Sara Bareilles, Adele and Chappell Roan, to the soul-stirring power of “The Wizard and I” and “Defying Gravity,” Morrissey delivered a spellbinding performance. Her voice soared over Wilcox Park, leaving many in awe that such talent was gracing their small-town stage.

In one of the most emotional moments of the evening, Andrew Howell led the crowd in a tribute to George Kent. The entire park joined together in singing “Draw the Circle Wide” as a sea of phone lights filled the darkening sky. It was a powerful and tearful reminder of the community Kent built, and the lives he touched through music.

At the heart of the event, as always, was the multi-generational Chorus of Westerly and the Pops Festival Orchestra. There is nothing quite like hearing voices from children to elders blend in perfect harmony, bringing depth and authenticity to each piece. The orchestra, too, was in top form, delivering a rich and nuanced soundscape that elevated the entire performance.

And of course, the grand finale—the thunderous 1812 Overture, complete with cannon fire, fireworks, and the ringing of Christ Church’s bells by Executive Director Ryan Saunders himself, was a fitting, joyful exclamation point on the evening that, to put it lightly—brought all the tears to all the eyes.

As the final notes rang out and the sky shimmered with light, many were reminded of their own stories with the Chorus. For some, it was the memory of singing on that very stage. For others, it was the realization of what this event, and this organization, means to the people of Westerly. To everyone who made this year’s Summer Pops possible: thank you. Thank you for giving us a night full of pride, remembrance, and incredible music. You already know that Mr. Kent was very proud.

See you in 2026.