Sunday proved a sort of homecoming for former Lisle resident David Zak.
Zak, executive director of Chicago`s Bailiwick Theatre, brought the repertory company`s current production, ”Songs of the Season,” to Queen of Peace Center for its annual holiday benefit.
Combining the magic of old holiday classics such as ”Count Your Blessings” from ”White Christmas” to ”Chestnuts Roasting on a Open Fire” with newer non-traditional selections such as ”Santa Baby,” the musical review truly captured the romance and nostalgia of the holiday season. A raffle and refreshments added to the festivities.
Funds raised will benefit Queen of Peace Center, a home for seniors constructed by the Benedictine sisters on the unused half of the convent at 1910 Maple Ave., Lisle.
”This brings back a lot of memories for me,” Sister Mary Patricia said. ”It brings a lot of happiness to life to hear these songs I heard when I was a baby. This really puts you in the holiday spirit. Plus it`s nice to see a hometown boy make a success.”
She recalled teaching Zak when he was a student. Upon graduating from college, Zak taught English at Benet Academy across the way before going into theater.
”It`s great to be back in Lisle and see many old friends,” Zak said.
”I think the senior home is a wonderful use of this space.”
His parents organized the event with the help of Sister Benita, Queen of Peace`s administrator.
”We`ve wanted to get the company out to the suburbs,” Zak said. ”This is the easiest show to pick up and take on the road. Plus it fits our needs and their needs so it`s equally beneficial.”
In its third year at Bailiwick, ”Songs of the Season” originated as an alternative to the more traditional ”Nutcracker” and ”A Christmas Carol,” Zak said. ”We wanted to give people something different. The show keeps changing because we keep finding new, undiscovered or forgotten carols.”
Sister Benita said she was pleased with the turnout of approximately 200: ”This is a pretty good crowd for the first time.
