Opera singer Keri Roberts

On March 26, 2006, Palmetto Opera Company hosted a fundraiser at the state History Center billed as An Evening of Opera. Tenor Walter Cuttino, who with Nicholas Smith is artistic director of the company, entertained and also provided live libretto in introducing his own selections and those by soprano Kerri Roberts and bass-baritone Marc Rattray. Allison Hillbish accompanied at the piano.

The evening's performance was dedicated to the memory of Carroll Taussig Cantey who sang opera in San Francisco and New York, among other world cities. Tributes to Saul and Bernard Kahn were also made. The Columbia Garden Club provided flowers for the festive dinner and silent auction. Van Edwards is chairman of Palmetto Opera's Board of Directors.

Three Columbia ladies of song: Helen Tintes-Schermann, Lanny Palmer, and Jackie McNeilVan Edwards, chairman of the Palmetto Opera, with Kay McClanahan (l) and Frances Smoak Photos by Billy Rawl