The musical theater students at the Somerset Count Vocational and Technical High School (SVTHS) chose to make Voices of September 11th the recipient of the proceeds for this year's show. The evening's message was, "Tonight we remember the past, hope for the future and appreciate the present."

The end of the academic year marks the Somerset County Vocational and Technical High School's (SCVTHS) annual Cabaret-style fundraiser. The benefit, this year named, "There Will Be Light", was held at the Bridgewater Marriott Tuesday night

The students originally chose the idea of a NYC cabaret in honor of 9/11, but remained undecided on what charitable organization would be honored. "They chose the New York idea because everyone has something they love about The City," said Sean Morris, the student's Music Director. It was after Morris researched the work of the local non-profit organization, Voices of September 11th, that the students made their decision. "I brought it up with the students and they loved the idea," he said.

The set list was comprised of New York-themed numbers including Green Day's When September Ends, Elton John's Levon and Billy Joel's New York State of Mind. One student dedicated a song to her cousin, a rescue worker who died on 9/11. Another student cried as she sang a beautiful tribute to her brother who recently enlisted in the military.

The Musical Theater Program offers its students an intensive course of study focusing on acting, music and dance. The department aims to refine the student's voice and movement techniques, as well as character development.

"I was so impressed by the creativity, expression and talent of the SCVTHS students. The selection of songs and the full program itself was poignant and touching, with an underlying message of community, hope and resilience," said Sheri Burkat, VOICES Program Director and speaker at the night's event. "VOICES is sincerely grateful for the generosity and support of Sean Morris and his students."