For Immediate Release: November 29, 2005
Media Contact: Roger Ricker, Media Theatre, 610.891.0100

The Media Theatre, Delaware County's only professional award-winning music theatre, is joining forces with Media Music, a new recording studio. The joint venture is designed to raise awareness of the theatre's mission and the importance of self-expression through the arts. Media Music, a state-of-the-art recording studio and teaching facility located at Franklin and Olive Streets in Media, will produce a CD with Media Theatre's Roger Ricker performing with piano and bass accompaniment.

Media Theatre Artistic Director said, "When Mike Gibbons, the President of Media Music, approached me about doing a CD, I immediately suggested Roger Ricker. He has become known in the community for his vocalism and more than 400 people attended his concerts here at the theatre."

The CD, entitled "Here To Stay", is a compilation of inspirational and patriotic songs which reflect our country's heritage and cultural diversity. "This is a perfect tie-in with the music theatre company's mission statement," Cline explained. "Music theatre styles change, reflecting music that is current with populist tastes."

Michael Gibbons explained his desire to open a recording studio in the heart of Delaware County. "I have a huge love for all kinds of music, and want to further its study and appreciation in Delaware County," he said. "Media Music has instructors for many different instruments. Lessons are available for all age groups. It is my goal to present a safe learning environment for children so that they may express themselves artistically. This is a perfect partnership with the Media Theatre."

One of Media Theatre's students will be featured on the CD as a representation of the theatre's work with students interested in music theatre. Alex Larsen, who has appeared in five Media Theatre productions and has been a member of the theatre school and summer camp for four years, sings two duets with Roger Ricker on "Here To Stay".

"The Media Theatre introduces us to local talent, and talent from across the country," Gibbons said. "With the theatre's credibility, and our state-of-the-art equipment, we represent a new avenue for young people and local artists. That is why Media Music wanted to become involved in a fundraising CD project with Media Theatre. It's important to support our professional music theatre."

Patrick Ward, Media Theatre's Executive Director, is looking forward to more joint ventures with Media Music. "Our Delco Idol contest is coming up again this summer, and we have already discussed plans for a recording contract for the winner," he said.

Gibbon's business partner and producing technician Jamie Brown is creating the unique sound for "Here To Stay" with Ricker and piano accompanist Michelle Ferdinand. The bass player is Joe Catrambone.

Ricker, suggested by Cline to perform on the CD, couldn't be happier to lend his vocals to the project. "In the studio, we have created somewhat of a different approach to familiar songs," he stated. "The quality of the recording has allowed me, as an artist, to encounter what we are all capable of in a new way. The fact that it all supports the Media Theatre is the icing on the cake. For $20, you can make a donation to the Media Theatre and receive a well-produced professional CD. This is truly about the best in all of us."

Orders for "Here To Stay" are available online now at www.mediatheatre.org. The CD will be available at the Media Theatre in December. Call The Media Theatre at 610-891-0100 for information.

Media Music's phone is 610-566-1444 and its website is www.mediamusicstudio.com.

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