Ben's Theater Celebrates Two Decades of Musical Performances

Ben's Theater in Jomtien has reached a remarkable milestone, celebrating its 20-year anniversary. The venue, known for hosting a variety of informal concerts, has evolved tremendously since its inception. Two decades ago, musical talents like Monika Petra, Barry Pethig, and Roger Farman graced the stage in the initial shows. Following the age-old adage that 'Time flies when you're having fun,' the theater has certainly seen its fair share of enjoyable moments, which echo back to Shakespeare's words about the fleetness of pleasurable hours and Virgil’s famed Latin phrase about the irretrievable flight of time.

Marking the 20^th anniversary, a splendid concert by the 'Heavenly Voice Singers' took place recently. These gifted students are refining their Classical Vocal Performance under the guidance of Prof. Nancy Tsui-Ping Wei at Mahidol University's College of Music. Prof. Wei, with an extensive background in nurturing vocal talent and serving on international competition judging panels, ensures her students gain broad exposure to prestigious stages globally.

The lineup featured the sopranos Pimmada Ko-amornsup, Alisara Arial, and Pichamon Mookmaneekun, alongside tenor Jatupol Phintip and bass-baritone Jatuphol Nuanjan, accompanied by accomplished pianist Anant Changwaiwit. The performers showcased their memory and musical diversity with different programs than previously presented. The concert opened with a trio rendition of Dowland's 'Come Again, Sweet Love doth Now Invite,' paving the way for an evening filled with diverse performances, from Mozart’s aria 'Bester Jüngling' to the warm ensemble pieces of Franz Lehár’s operatic works.

The concerts at Ben's Theater have not only been a platform for these performers but also a testament to their growth in musicianship, under Prof. Wei's tutelage. The singers' biographies demonstrate their progression in the musical arts, with Pimmada being a recent winner at the Princess Galvani Vadhana Institute, while Alisara and Jatupol have both received acclaim in international competitions.

The event was noteworthy for both the variety of pieces performed and the professionalism displayed. The music spanned genres and eras, including Schubert's 'Licht und Liebe,' odes to love by Gustav Holst, and Strauss’s lively 'Die Fledermaus' performances. Even the accompanist, Anant Changwaiwit, shined in his role as a supportive virtuoso, contributing significantly to the success of the performances.

The concert concluded with an unmistakable celebration of music, culminating in an enthusiastic ‘Drinking Song’ from Verdi’s 'La Traviata,' much to the audience’s delight. It was truly a memorable event, honoring the theater's history and promising a future resonance with music.

anniversary, concert, music