Nick just returned from Las Vegas, where he conducted for Lorna Luft. They opened for Don Rickles in the showroom at the Stardust. Can you say Rat Pack? LOL Nick reports it was a great show and a terrific time was had by all. The show sold well and the audience was standing at the end of Lorna’s set every night.

While there, Lorna, being a long time friend of Barry Manilow, got Nick in to see the end of Barry’s show at the Las Vegas Hilton. Nick came back raving about it. Apparently Barry has matured enormously as an artist. Nick had two direct quotes: 1) “That man has perfect intonation!” and 2) “A lot of people have achieved fame and fortune, but Barry’s one of the few who really deserves it.” They also shared what Barry calls “Frank Friday”; an homage to Sinatra where everyone in the show retires to the lounge and has a couple of drinks and relaxes. Nick was treated like royalty and is grateful for the hospitality and a lovely time with a true artist.

The first draft of Cinderella is nearly completed. At the time of this update Nick had two numbers left to write, most of which are reprises of prior songs. Cinderella will be presented as the first show of 2007 by the Nine O’Clock Players of Hollywood.

Nick will be orchestrating all the music for both the undergraduate and graduate commencement exercises for Kean University which will be held at NJPAC and the PNC Center respectively.

Nick is in discussions to play for the Summer Conservatory program at the PaperMill Playhouse and is also being considered as musical director/arranger for the NJ Theatre Alliance’s gala in the fall.