Rehearsing for a perfect 10th

Some of Newport-Mesa’s movers and shakers were moving and shaking it for a good cause Saturday at a rehearsal for the upcoming Children’s Hospital of Orange County Follies performance. With hands in the air, the volunteer performers prepared for the 10th annual CHOC benefit show, “Fantom of the Follies.”

More than 100 cast members have been rehearsing since February for shows that will be held May 20 and 21 at the Orange County Performing Arts Center. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the charity performance and show producers are aiming to raise $1 million for the hospital.

“It’s going to be the best ever,” said director John Vaughan.

Money raised from this year’s event will go toward a family zone for the hospital’s intensive care unit, said Lois Augustine, director of community relations for the CHOC Foundation for Children.

The annual event draws volunteer performers from all experience levels ? many have backgrounds in song and dance, while others are new to the stage.

Singer Mia Maffei has participated in the CHOC Follies production for 10 years.

“I love sharing my talents,” said Maffei, who has a musical theater background.

Newport Coast couple and former reality TV stars Glenn and Mindy Stearns are both performing for the first time.

“This has been the most unbelievable challenge,” said Mindy Stearns, who worked for six years as an entertainment reporter with KTLA.

Glenn Stearns said he now has a newfound appreciation for those who act, sing and dance.

“I’ve got two left feet, it’s hard,” Stearns said. “I’m a business guy, you use a different side of the brain.”

The performers have each contributed a significant amount of time preparing for the show, rehearsing about 10 hours a week, but they all agree it’s worth it.

“It is a lot of work, but we’ve enjoyed it tremendously,” said Leslie Cancellieri, an event co-chair.

For show tickets or information, call the CHOC Foundation for Children, (714) 532-8690.dpt.08-choc-2-B.1PhotoInfoAR1QNJ7O20060508iyx54vncSolo performers for the CHOC Follies rehearse for the upcoming performance of ‘Fantom of the Follies’ on May 20 and 21. dpt.08-choc-1-B.1PhotoInfoAR1QNJ7M20060508iyx56wncMARK DUSTIN / DAILY PILOT(LA)Rehearsal for the CHOC Follies was in the old Wells Fargo building at Bristol Street and Town Center Drive Saturday morning.