Local Woman, Broadway Talent Sings At Times Square With USO to Welcome in New Year

WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY — Westhampton residents will get a chance to cheer a hometown girl on New Year's Eve, as Broadway actress and singer Siri Howard performs at Times Square with the USO.

Howard, a familiar talent in Westhampton who performed in a series of roles during her years at Westhampton Beach High School and serenaded rapt audiences as part of The Howard Sisters, a group that included her real-life siblings, has gone on to Broadway success, lighting up the stage with her talents in 'Les Misérables'" and other touring productions.

On New Year's Eve, Howard and her husband Max Quinlan will perform with the USO; they are slated to be onstage, and on television, between 8:45 p.m. and 9 p.m.

"My husband Max Quinlan and I love having the opportunity to perform together, which began when we met on the 25th Anniversary tour of 'Les Misérables', continued on Broadway with the show, and now here with the USO," Howard said. "To feel like we are giving back through performance and getting to do that together is so fulfilling and wonderful. Both our fathers and grandfathers are veterans, so it's very personal to both of us."

The USO, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary, Howard said, brings messages of love and hope to troops; this year, the goal is to send 1.4 million messages from residents nationwide.

"Through the USO we have the opportunity to give back to our men and women in uniform, and to connect them to family, home, and country. Where words fail, music speaks; through our performances we can honor both active duty military members as well as veterans, and help inspire, and honor them. We are the force behind the Armed Forces," she said. In addition, Howard noted, "2016 marks the end of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the USO, and what a way to end it, with performing in Times Square where it all began."

The USO is inviting all Americans to "be part of a united force driven to meet the needs of service members and their families—join us. #BetheForce," the USO said on its website.

So far, more than 1.2 million of a 1.4 million goal have been sent. To send a message of support, click here.

For Howard, the night marks a pinnacle in her flourishing career. "What a once in a lifetime experience to sing in Times Square on New Year's Eve," she said. "We are thrilled for the opportunity, and can't wait to celebrate the new year with millions of people!"

Howard's proud mother, Linda Howard — who nurtured the musical journeys of her daughters, as well as countless students, during her career as a music teacher at Westhampton Beach High School and organist at Westhampton Presbyterian Church — said watching her daughter perform on New Year's Eve is the latest joy in a lifetime of pride.

"It's always thrilling to see and hear Siri perform. She brings talent, passion and integrity to every performance. Her father, a WW II veteran, would have been so proud," she said.

Photos courtesy of Siri Howard.

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