Suzie Harrison
Gary Shapiro, a math teacher at Laguna Beach High School for 22
years, will present the 16th annual fundraiser concert for the "Safe
and Sober Grad Night" party Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
The concert, called "No Suits Allowed," will be made up of student
performers and will be arranged and accompanied by Shapiro, who is
also a musician.
"It's a fundraiser for the seniors every year," chairperson Pam
Levin said.
She explained that almost every high school has a "Safe and Sober
Grad Night" program. The graduates will be bused to an all-night
party in lieu of going out and partying.
"It's a good way to end graduation," Levin said. "It usually has
different forms of entertainment and is a lot of fun for the kids."
She said the location of the party is a big surprise.
All of the proceeds will go toward the 2004 Grad Night fund.
Shapiro volunteers his time to organize the students, rehearse and
accompany some students with their pieces as well as solo
performances.
"Usually 24 to 30 different students play, this year there are 28
students," Levin said.
She said it is like an "unplugged" kind of concert.
Students perform a variety of pieces, including original
compositions. There will be bands, guitarists and vocal selections.
Levin gives big kudos to Shapiro's generosity.
"He's just a really interesting, great guy and a great, great math
teacher," Levin said. "He encourages the students and helps them to
get out there [and perform]."
She explained that students invite their friends and families and
the families invite more friends and relatives.
"It's kind of like a hometown kind of thing," Levin said.
The concert will start at 7:30 p.m. but tickets will go on sale at
5:30 p.m. at the Laguna Beach High School's Artists' Theater at 625
Park Ave. It's usually a sellout so people are advised to purchase
their $10 tickets early.
