Paramount Season Kicks Off Sunday with Graymoor Benefit

Looking for an opportunity to listen to an internationally recognized Celtic musician?

How about an opportunity to support a worthy cause and be present for first the show at the Paramount Center for the Arts since it's been taken over by new management?

Well, the opportunity will be there to do all three this Sunday when accordian player John Whelan and his band perform during the 10th annual benefit concert for the Sisters at Graymoor in Garrison. The show begins at 2 p.m. at the Paramount.

"It's running a little later this year," said Sister Eilish Sweeney, director of development for the Franciscan Sisters. "We weren't sure if we could have it this year after we heard the Paramount had closed."

The sisters were able to save the show at the last minute by working out an arrangement with Red House Entertainment, the new operators of the Paramount. Red House took over theater operations earlier this month.

The proceeds from the show will go toward the care and financial support for the sisters at Graymoor. Graymoor, founded in 1898 with the goal of adopting the Franciscan tradition and be promoting Christian unity and mission.

Sweeney said John Whelan was more than willing to participate in this year's benefit.

Whelan, a native of England, who has sold more than 250,000 records, has toured throughout Europe and the U.S.

He has appeared in the movie picture Ride With The Devil, which was directed by Ang Lee, and his music has been featured in a number of television shows, including "Sex in the City."

"We're excited about to be able to help them out and play at the Paramount for the first time," said Whelan, who currently resides in Alabama. "I've played with Pete Seager locally and Jay Ungar, but this will be my first time at Paramount."

Whelan said showgoers can expect a cross of Celtic and world music during Sunday's show.

Sweeney said as many as 500 people have attended past benefits.

"We don't expect that many people to show because we started later this year and it's Memorial Day weekend," Sweeney said. "But we still hope people come and enjoy the show."

Tickets are $25.00 and are on sale now at the Sisters’ Gift Shop at Graymoor or by phone at (845) 230-8228.  Tickets are also available the day of at the Paramount.