Broadway Star Franc D'Ambrosio Returns To Somers

SOMERS, N.Y. - An audience of over 300 people greeted Franc D’Ambrosio like an old friend on Friday, November 18, when he appeared pro bono at the Somers Middle School to benefit At Home in Somers. D’Ambrosio responded with a performance both electric and eclectic. 

The evening’s theme, Music of the Great White Way, included a half-dozen songs you thought you had forgotten, harking all the way back to George M. Cohan, and some you simply had to clap along with. 

Then, just when you sat back thinking the melody wonderful and the voice a treasure, D’Ambrosio embellished his rendition with a hint of Jolson, Cagney or Bobby Darin. Anthony Newley would surely give a nod to the entertainer’s faithful rendition of “What Kind of Fool Am I?”

Among D’Ambrosio’s distinctions are his role in Godfather III as Michael Corleone’s son, and his six and-a-half-year Broadway stint in Phantom of the Opera. The title, “World’s Longest Running Phantom” was his for ten years. Two pieces from Phantom were included in Friday’s program: “All I Ask of You,” and the duet, “Think of Me,” performed with guest Glory Crampton.

Crampton was a sparkling beauty in Act One when she entered in a black and white strapless gown and again in Act Two in flowing turquoise. Her appearance was eclipsed by her strong, rich operatic voice, shown to full advantage in Act Two with an aria from Puccini’s Turandot.

Both entertainers were accompanied by Scott Besser at the Yamaha. When you see and hear Besser’s expertise, you want to go home and donate your own piano to some worthy cause.

Click here to follow Daily Voice Somers and receive free news updates.