27-02-2025
Veteran performers ready to be ‘Close to you'
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – A musical tribute to one of the most treasured singing groups of all time is happening at one local theater to support its upcoming centennial celebration.
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'Close To You: A Musical Salute to the Carpenters' is happening for one performance only on March 8. The show features three of the area's most prominent performers: Maureen Collins, Mary Jo Maluso and Rick Blackson.
The special event is to help raise money for the 100th Anniversary Gala Celebration happening on Saturday, June 21. It promises to be packed with nostalgia and beloved songs so many people grew up with.
'This is going to be a nice vehicle as a fundraiser for the big gala that's happening in June,' said Maluso. 'There will be some surprises, but it's so many of the songs that you know and love.'
Blackman, who is married to Maluso, is providing the musical arrangement. Collins, also a performing staple in the Valley, says performing and raising money for a place that shaped her was a no-brainer.
'The Playhouse celebrating 100 years — it's amazing. This is where I fell in love with theater, literally back in the 60s,' said Collins. 'And we love this project and what the Carpenters meant to the world of music.'
'Close To You: A Musical Salute to the Carpenters' is happening on Saturday, March 8 at 7:30 p.m. on the main stage at the Youngstown Playhouse located at 600 Playhouse Lane in Youngstown.
Tickets may be purchased in person at the DeYor Performing Arts Center Box Office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will also be available one hour prior to performances at the Youngstown Playhouse.
For more information, call 330-788-8739 and visit
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