As the club approaches a remarkable milestone, the Three Arts Club of Cornelia continues to celebrate the traditions that have defined the organization for nearly a century. Established on June 10, 1926, the club has spent the past year counting down to its 100th anniversary with a series of engaging programs highlighting the three pillars at the heart of its mission: music, literature, and art.
The club’s most recent meeting offered members and guests a lively celebration of Broadway classics in a program titled “A Trip Down Broadway.”
A Musical Journey Through Broadway
The program was organized by Music Chair Sally Higgins, who introduced Cornelia businessman, city council member, and musician Don Bagwell, affectionately known by many locals as the “piano man.”
Bagwell brought along two special guests to help bring the Broadway stage to Cornelia.
One of those guests was Robert Ray, an Atlanta musician who previously starred in both the 1979 Broadway revival and the **1984 touring revival of Oklahoma! **. The performance also featured Ginny King of Sautee, a dancer and singer who once performed in Broadway’s 42nd Street.
Bagwell and Ray share a musical history of their own. The two originally met years ago while performing at Six Flags, and the Three Arts Club program offered the perfect opportunity for the longtime friends to perform together again.
Classic Songs and Audience Participation
During the performance, the trio delighted the audience with 25 Broadway classics, covering beloved songs from some of the most iconic shows in theater history. The program included selections ranging from “Getting to Know You” to “There’s No Business Like Show Business.”
Higgins also took the stage herself, performing “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess and later joining Ginny King for a duet of “Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man” from Show Boat.
Audience members were invited to sing along on several favorites, including “Edelweiss,” “Tomorrow,” and “Oklahoma!”, turning the afternoon into a joyful and interactive musical celebration.
Welcoming New Faces
Following the performance, former club president Jean Patrick thanked the performers for what she described as an uplifting and memorable program.
Current club president Shirley Wright also welcomed ten guests and two new members to the organization, continuing the club’s tradition of inviting new generations to experience the arts.
Looking Ahead to the Next Meeting
The Three Arts Club is already preparing for its next gathering, scheduled for April 2. The upcoming meeting will feature retired dancer Amy Metz, who will present a program titled “A Twist on Tap.” Metz often reminds audiences that “dancing is like dreaming with your feet.”
As the club continues celebrating its centennial year, organizers say they welcome visitors interested in experiencing the group’s programs.
Meetings are held the first Thursday of each month (September through May) at 3:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of Cornelia First Presbyterian Church.
With nearly 100 years of history behind it, the Three Arts Club remains dedicated to its original purpose: fostering a love of music, literature, and art in the Habersham County community.
