We have lost nearly 190,000 people in the US alone to COVID-19. But one whose struggles we heard about more than many was father, husband, and Broadway star Nick Cordero.
There is a memorial tribute tonight at the Broadway on Demand website at: https://www.broadwayondemand.com/watch/channel/all-shows/series/aKBEcTX7pwGQ-nick-cordero-memorial-tribute/episode/fgOtARMcuky3-join-us-tonight-7pm-et-in-celebration-of-nick-cordero?t=0
The description of the tribute from the website says:
As Nick’s family and friends come together to celebrate his life, this tribute event will include photographs, videos, memories and commentary from those he grew up with, worked with, and shared his talent with, as well as special performances by those with whom he shared the stage. Proceeds benefit the Save the Music Foundation. Text CORDERO to 41444 to donate. Save The Music Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps students, schools, and communities reach their full potential through the power of making music. Founded in 1997, Save The Music partners with school districts and raises funds to restore music programs in public schools. Since inception, we have donated over $58 million worth of new musical instruments and technology to over 2,159 schools in 276 school districts around the country–impacting the lives of countless students. Learn more about us and our efforts at www.savethemusic.org.
He fought the good fight, and leaves behind many who love him. RIP Nick Cordero.
UPDATE: Wow, I don’t know when I’ve cried so much for someone that I didn’t now before the news reports about his battle against COVID-19. But what a great memorial. As they sing in the musical Bye Bye Birdie:
If ya gotta go, that’s the way to go
Of course, it helps if your friends, as well as your wife, are Broadway-caliber singers, dancers, and musicians. Still, the tributes from his family and childhood friends who aren’t stars were equally heartrending. His wife was such a trooper…but then, that’s what performers are. If nothing else, this is such a great collection of descriptions of a wonderful man for his very young son, who unfortunately will probably not have many memories of him.
A theme that ran through the night was “Live Your Life,” which was a song Cordero wrote, but also a philosophy he lived by. That will be the way I memorialize him the most.
If you missed it, here is the video:
BlissFullU 