Molloy University CAP21 students shine at Carnegie Hall benefit concert

Molloy University and its renowned CAP21 Musical Theatre program took center stage at Carnegie Hall, delivering an unforgettable night of music, storytelling, and Broadway brilliance.  

The benefit concert, “Seth Rudetsky and His Broadway Friends,” drew a packed house as Emmy-nominated Broadway personality Seth Rudetsky led a star-studded lineup in a celebration of talent, artistry, and the future of musical theatre. 

The evening featured dazzling performances by Kerry Butler, Santino Fontana, Erika Henningsen, Nikki M. James, Norm Lewis, Taylor Louderman, Andrea Martin, Jessie Mueller, Javier Muñoz, Zachary Noah Piser, Leah Reineck, Will Swenson, and Joy Woods.  

Many performed signature songs from their most iconic roles, while also sharing selections that marked the early stages of their artistic journeys—some dating as far back as junior high or community theatre. Audience members were treated to surprise appearances as well, adding to the magic of a night possible only at Carnegie Hall. 

“It was a thrilling evening of Broadway stars singing the songs that made them famous and sharing the songs they performed before they were stars,” Rudetsky said.  

The South Shore Symphony, under conductor and music director Aaron Gandy, accompanied the performers, filling the room with the rich and layered sound of a full orchestra. Rockville Centre’s Wayne Lipton, the president of the symphony, played a pivotal role in ensuring the concert captured the spirit and energy of a true Broadway production. 

Molloy University President James Lentini praised the success of the Nov. 25 show and the visibility it brought to both the university and its rising student artists.  

“We are thrilled that our students and community had the opportunity to be part of such an extraordinary evening at Carnegie Hall,” Lentini said. “Molloy’s commitment to preparing the next generation of performers, directors, and creators while celebrating Broadway’s enduring impact was evident, and the energy onstage was palpable.” 

A highlight of the night was the participation of CAP21 Musical Theatre students, who shared the stage with the celebrated performers. Each student is enrolled in the university’s rigorous Bachelor of Fine Arts program, which offers conservatory-style training in acting, voice, dance, and stagecraft. Students split their studies between Molloy’s Rockville Centre campus and the CAP21 Manhattan facility, gaining both academic depth and real-world experience that culminates in an industry-level Senior Showcase.  

Alumni of the program include major names such as Lady Gaga, Kristen Bell, Matthew Morrison, and rising Broadway star Nichelle Lewis, who graduated in 2021 and starred as Dorothy in the 2024 revival of “The Wiz.” 

Behind the scenes, the concert came together through the efforts of Rudetsky, Angelo Fraboni—the artistic director of the Madison Theatre at Molloy University—and the university’s office of advancement, which helped bring the event to near full capacity. Their collaboration ensured an evening that exceeded expectations and highlighted the growing influence of Molloy and CAP21 on the future of musical theatre. 

As the curtain fell, the magic of the night lingered—leaving students, professionals, and audience members alike inspired by a celebration of Broadway’s past, present, and future. 

For more information on Molloy University’s CAP21 Musical Theatre program, visit Molloy.edu.