Theatrical musical performance shines spotlight on mental health

The Mental Health Association of Westchester (MHA) is thrilled to present An Evening of Conversation and Music with Modern Warrior LIVE on Wednesday, October 24th at the Chappaqua Performing Arts Center. Through a tapestry of story and music, the not-to-be-missed performance builds bridges between veteran and civilian communities while shining a spotlight on behavioral health challenges and pathways to recovery.

Created by US Veteran Jaymes Poling and renowned musician Dominick Farinacci, Modern Warrior LIVE presents a unique blend of storytelling and sound. Poling, a former infantry Staff Sergeant in the 82nd Airborne Division who spent three years in Afghanistan, narrates the autobiographical production detailing his time in the military and the challenges he faced when transitioning to civilian life back home. Poling’s journey is complemented by dynamic musical performances by Farinacci, who leads an esteemed band and guest vocalists in the performance.

“This is a universal story of adversity, challenges, and ultimately, the positive growth that can come from that,” said Farinacci, a Mack Avenue recording artist and former Global Ambassador to Jazz at Lincoln Center. “The performance spans all generations of music, and the audience can expect to hear completely new material, as well as [familiar] songs in a different context.”

“We are thrilled to bring Modern Warrior LIVE to the stage for the first time in Westchester,” said MHA CEO Charlotte Östman, LCSW-R. “As musical entertainment, their performance is impressive and powerful. As champions for mental health, their message mirrors our agency’s deeply held belief in recovery. This compelling event will resonate with all audiences, regardless of civilian or military status, and is sure to spark conversation about how we can best serve those who have served our country.”

Prior to the performance, MHA is pleased to present its first-ever Community Hero Award to Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Geraci, PhD, LMHC (US Army, Infantry, Retired) for his achievements and commitments in the field of veterans services and mental health. Being a combat leader, scholar and mental health provider has provided Lt. Col. Geraci with a unique viewpoint that he uses to assist veterans and their families to successfully transition into the civilian sector as the next leaders of communities and businesses. As an advocate for veterans mental health, Lt. Col. Geraci co-founded ProVetus, a peer mentoring initiative for veterans, as well as the Resilience Center for Veterans and Families at Columbia University’s Teachers College.

“We are especially excited to honor Lt. Col. Geraci, as this event signals our intention to re-establish services for veterans and their families,” said Östman. “Our agency was founded in 1946 to help those
returning from service during World War II, and we are committed to creating supports for the extended military community.”

The evening includes a pre-event reception featuring drinks, dinner-by-the-bite and exclusive raffle and silent auction prizes. Following the performance, enjoy a talk-back session and Q&A with Modern Warrior LIVE creators. Proceeds from the event help The Mental Health Association of Westchester provide a broad array of behavioral health programs and services to children, teens and adults, as well as establish support for the extended military community.

Details:

• An Evening of Conversation and Music with Modern Warrior LIVE
• Wednesday, October 24th at 6:00 pm
• The Chappaqua Performing Arts Center | 480 Bedford Road | Chappaqua, New York.
• “Spirit Pass” tickets are $150; “Honor Pass” tickets for veterans and active military members are $50.
• A limited number of free tickets for veterans are also available.
• To view more ticket options and register, visit www.mhawestchester.org
• For more information or to become a sponsor, contact development@mhawestchester.org or 914-265-7511.