The Verandah Swing Singers celebrate their ten year reign this year as an integral part of Verandah’s entertainment offerings. Throughout the year they can be found singing at various events and performing their annual major production in the spring.
Lisa Zakrajsek founded the group here in 2015. With a background in jazz vocals, she reached out to other singers in the community to form a choir, but not just any choir, a show choir.
“A show choir, popularized by the TV show Glee, is a musical ensemble that combines choral singing – usually pop, jazz, or Broadway style music, with choreographed dance, often with an overarching theme,” explained Lisa. “We thought it would be the perfect mix and have a crowd- pleasing appeal.”
The original group of 20 has evolved over time with some ladies leaving and new ones joining. This year the group has 4 new members. “I am an original member of the group, and I can’t believe the growth of musical ability and talent in this group. With the expert guidance and tremendous talent of our leader, Lisa Zakrajsek, we’ve become a key part of the entertainment scene here,” said Diane Shook. “This group of awesome women have become more than singing partners but are now my friends. One of our newer members called us her ‘Swing Sisters’ and that’s how we feel about one another.”
As the director of the group, Lisa’s process for show development starts a full 12 months in advance. Since shows are based on great music selections Lisa studies hundreds of choral pieces to find arrangements that dazzle and show the singers’ voices well.
“I look for themes across the songs which eventually leads me to a show “concept.” I then develop the plot, which is always rooted in comedy, develop a “character” for each singer, and write a final script,” added Lisa. “I then learn and record each section’s parts in preparation for rehearsals. Of course, while it might start with me, it certainly doesn’t end there. It takes a village to put on the production.”
Eva Fix serves as producer, assists Lisa and the singers with all the logistics including, rehearsals, props and working on all arrangements with the club.
“It is truly a team effort, and I love being involved. Having no musical talent, I so appreciate being around all of these talented women,” said Eva. “Volunteers are a key part of the show. Many Verandah members have assisted with the back- stage crew, make-up, wardrobe, photography, video, bouncers and guest performers. These are often men, who add color and comedy to the show.”
Being a Swing Singer requires a time commitment but all of the members report it is well worth the effort and requires no more time than tennis or golf. Rehearsals are held twice a week running from October to March/April. Members are also involved researching and purchasing wardrobe items and props. The women pay for their music and costumes, but the Club picks up the big costs of production, most notable the sound company who ensures a professional presentation.
“I really love how we prepare for an event and how it all comes together at the end,” said Joyce Winchester. “I have learned so much from our director, Lisa. This experience has been so amazing – the sisterhood and camaraderie both during season and year-round is an important part of my life.
The Verandah Swing Sisters 2025 season will feature a two-night dinner and show event. The show takes place in a swanky, early 60’s Manhattan Supper Club. You can expect singing, dancing and of course lots of comedy. There will be a few surprises too, so you don’t want to miss it.
The two-night event is on April 2nd and 3rd. The evenings will begin at 5:00 PM with cocktails, 6:00 PM served dinner, and 7:30 PM show. Capacity at the River House is 225 per night and the show will typically sell out very quickly. You can register on the Club’s event calendar.
