DeKalb native discovers show business prospects

By Jill Flanagan

Denise Schafer, an actress, singer, and dancer originally from DeKalb, will be performing with members of NIU’s Jazz Ensemble at the Egyptian Theater, 135 N. Second St., at 3 p.m. on Feb. 17. The performance, entitled “The Kishwaukee Kabaret,” will benefit the Kishwaukee Community Orchestra.

Schafer has performed in productions in New York City’s Equity Theatre, Chicago’s Round Playhouse, and with the St. Louis Municipal Opera. She has portrayed Maria in “West Side Story,” Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz,” and Chava in “Fiddler on the Roof.” She has also performed in productions of “The King and I,” “Brigadoon,” and “The Unsinkable Molly Brown.”

Some of Schafer’s film credits include “Michael’s Coming” and “The World According to Garp.” Her television credits include appearances on “Ryan’s Hope” and “Kup’s Show” as well as voiceovers and jingles in many commercials.

Schafer has most recently focused her attention on nightclubs. She has performed over 100 times in nightclubs including Mickey’s in New York City, Gaslight Club in Chicago, and the Torarica Hotel in South America. She currently performs on the Sea Breeze, a ship of the Dolphin Line.

Schafer, who grew up in DeKalb, has studied with Norman Gulbrandsen and Mary Jane Ernhardt and received her degree in vocal performance from Northwestern University.

Between engagements, Schafer performs for the benefit of the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra, which performs four concerts a season.

Tickets are $7 per person or $12 for two. They are available through members of the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Board, the Junction Bookstore in DeKalb, Royal Travel and Tours in Sycamore, or at the door on Feb. 17.