2 Port Chester High School Singers Make Debut At Lincoln Center

PORT CHESTER, NY — Getting to Lincoln Center from Westchester County takes practice, practice practice (and natural talent doesn't hurt either).

Port Chester High School senior Jeferson Arriaza and sophomore Jordan Rivera put Port Chester in the spotlight recently, performing with the Manhattan Concert Productions Broadway Series production of "Children of Eden" at the David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center on Feb. 18.

The students were part of a chorus of 350 of the best singers from across the U.S. The production included a star-studded cast and a renowned creative team, accompanied by the New York City Chamber Orchestra. The limited engagement show was led by Broadway veterans Tony Yazbeck as stage director and Kimberly Grigsby as music director.

"It is a significant honor for Port Chester to be represented on such a prestigious stage alongside International Broadway stars and industry professionals," choral director Jonathan Pereira said.

Arriaza and Rivera were selected to participate in the concert after they submitted an audition video. But that was only the start of the story — the pair then embarked on a long and rigorous rehearsal schedule, with some of the most recognizable names on Broadway.

"Their commitment to excellence is evident in their diligent rehearsal attendance, willingness to take on challenging repertoire, and their ability to collaborate effectively with their peers," Pereira said.