THEY’RE GONNA SHINE

Young performers take
center stage with heart and hope

A sold-out fundraiser on Feb. 26 at The Triad offered a fast-moving night of entertainment and an emotionally moving glimpse into the Stars of Tomorrow Project, introducing many of its current and former participants through song, dance, and heartfelt testimonials. Opening eyes and hearts to new experiences while creating community, this nonprofit group changes lives and fosters talent.

Co-founder and co-host Tony Danza brought his charm and likability as well as his obvious sense of caring and dedication to the young people in the program. Stars of Tomorrow has had a busy spring, as usual, with performing arts classes—offered at no cost to students—trips, and preparations for their production of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The evening was festive and lively, but had a bittersweet tone due to the very recent loss of one of its key staff members, music instructor Timothy Riley.

Vibrant musical performances included selections from Grease and The Wiz, along with Michael Jackson’s hit, “Beat It.” While some numbers relied on pre-recorded accompaniment, karaoke-style, the singing voices and dancing talent were impressive and invigorating. Major community support and presence come from members of the local police force who join forces to sing with the youth members of Stars of Tomorrow in the Cops and Kids Chorus. The stage brimmed with talent. Even more impactful, emotionally, were some moving speeches by members who talked about how much the program meant to them—”a safe haven,” a place where they are accepted and embraced, with self-esteem and a sense of family growing like spring flowers. One young man shared his before-and-after story so touchingly and endearingly that it provoked tears. For some, the activities are the first real exposure to the rewards of acting and theatre/performing arts in general as part of a team—and finding one’s passion there.

Alumni and staff spoke of how the program and its participants have grown. Graduates have gone on to be professional performers or become staff members to mentor the next wave of teens and young adults.

As a surprise for “Uncle Tony,” the grateful Stars family unveiled a musical gift for the doting Danza. It was a song with original words, dedicated to him, set to the theme of Who’s the Boss?, the TV sitcom he memorably starred in. He provided sparkling entertainment himself, bringing the band from his nightclub act and sending things soaring with a swingin’ “Fly Me to the Moon.” Then, in serious mode, he reflected on acceptance of people of all backgrounds and the ideals of a more inclusive society in “The House I Live In (That’s America to Me).”

A group number exhorting the need to “Be Optimistic!” (“You can win as long as you keep your head in the sky if things around you crumble”) ended the event on a high.

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Tony Danza and the Stars of Tomorrow
Stars of Tomorrow Project
The Triad, 158 W. 72nd St. in New York City
reviewed Feb 26, 2026
for more information, visit The Stars of Tomorrow Project and Tony Danza

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