Moorpark College dance faculty and choreographer Nancy Paradis and several of her dance students will be collaborating with music faculty Brendan McMullin and the Wind Ensemble to bring her late father’s music to life.

Paradis’ late father, Gunnery Sergeant (GySgt) Richard Ferraro, Marine Corps, created an array of signature 1950’s music decades ago that her mother gave her once he passed, so she is using this opportunity to honor her father and all military with his big band music.

“[It’s] an upbeat, fun, make-you-smile kind of piece,” said Paradis.

The Wind Ensemble will play the music whereas dancers will bring a visual aspect.

Allie Lieberman, a dance major at Moorpark College, will be dancing in the concert. Lieberman thinks the show can be a good experience for anyone who has lost a loved one.

“We all lose people that are close to us and then want to do something in their memory,” said Lieberman. “(Death) is something that everyone goes through.”

Paradis has always felt a strong connection with her father through music. She has been a dance professor at Moorpark College for eight years, feeling her father around her the whole time.

“I feel like he has definitely passed on his artistry through me,” said Paradis. “I’ve always felt connected through the art department (at Moorpark College).

The performance will have something to offer all types of audiences. It’s a unique story that tugs at the heartstrings all the while getting to enjoy the talent of student musicians and dancers.

“Music and dance coming together is really special for (Paradis),” said Lieberman. “It is her father’s music and she wants to make him proud.”

For additional information and ticket inquiries, please visit www.moorparkcollege.edu/PAC.