LEWISTON — The Gendron Franco Center kicks off the current performance season with an elegant evening at its annual Gala and Benefit Concert on Saturday, Oct. 28, at 6 p.m.  The event features a pre-concert reception with complimentary hors d’oeuvres from 12 local restaurants. 

 The entertainment portion, “Thril-LA” will showcase popular Hollywood movie and Broadway themes performed by several talented Maine artists.  The concert will begin at 7:30.

After the show, the party will continue with a post-concert reception with complementary champagne, dessert and dancing. Center staff, Richard Martin and Mitch Thomas, will direct the show. 

 The performers include Thomas, Shawn and Angela Robitaille, Michael James Litchfield, Jennifer Groover, Chris L’Homedieu, Jay Barrett, Andy Dolci , Sophie Messina, Chad Jacobson, Emily Flynn, Madison Leslie, Hayden Thomas, Madeleine Vaillancourt, John Blanchette, Chip Groover, Emilyann Drumm and her “Thriller” dance team.

 The event is open to the public; however.

Tickets are $25 each for the before and after parties and “Thril-LA” in advance.  Tickets for just the concert will be available at the door on the night of the event. Contact or visit the Box Office (46 Cedar St. or purchase online at www.francocenter.org.  Call (207) 783.1585.  Box office hours are Monday through Friday, from noon to 4 p.m.