The Oak Street Singers are working hard to make their “Immortal Hollywood” show the best it can be before competition season starts in January.  Along with flashy costumes and difficult harmonies, another step taken to improve their performance was bringing in choreographer Lara Menard.

Currently, she is a professional singer and dancer in a show in Branson, Mo.  However, her past experience includes shows and dance troupes from Los Angeles, Calif., to New York City, N.Y., and every city in between.  Her most famous gig, though, would be her time spent as a Rockette in the famous Radio City group.

Menard and Oak Park choir director Chris Droegemueller met eight years ago at a show choir camp when they were paired together to choreograph a number.  They clicked immediately and their friendship has blossomed over the years.

Each pre-competition season since then, Menard has returned to Oak Park to help Oak Street with a number for their show.  This year, she choreographed the women’s number.

Getting to work with someone of Menard’s talent and experience is a great opportunity for the Oak Street ladies.  Her challenging dance moves, quick teaching pace, and maturity expectation is great exposure for the Oak Streeters to learn what post-high school performance is like.