NIU soon will have its own “An American in Paris.”

For the first time, NIU will be holding a benefit for the Opera Workshop, said Barbara Sullivan, editorial assistant for the NIU Office of Public Information.

The benefit will be held on Oct. 10 from 7 to 10 p.m. in NIU’s art Museum, on the second floor of Altgeld Hall. Sullivan said “the reason we are having this benefit is due to cutbacks in our department.”

“The proceeds from this benefit will go toward costumes, sets and lights for the undecided spring opera,” said Lee Strawn, workshop stage director.

Strawn added that the benefit is a good alternative event for parents on Homecoming weekend. “Entertainment will be provided by the school of music faculty and students. Dancing and singing will be one of the dominant entertainment themes in

this event,” he said.

The music provided for dancing will be performed by the NIU Jazz Combo, directed by Antonio Garcia. Gershwin melodies also will be performed by pianist William Koehler.

Sullivan said members of the opera workshop Diane Ragains, Myron Meyers and Lee Strawn will be singing popular songs from Broadway, Hollywood and Paris while Elwood Smith accompanies at the piano.

A silent auction will be held featuring prizes donated by local merchants. Prizes include weekend trips to Chicago and opera tickets.

Sullivan said champagne, rose wines and French pastries will be served, as well as other delights.

Admission is $25 per person, $15 of which is tax deductible, Sullivan said. Deadline for purchasing a ticket is Oct. 1, and a limited supply of tickets are still left.

For more information call 753-1551.