Patricia Hurter and Donna Viscuso have come full circle from their days as Dogwood Pageant contestants. Each was crowned Dogwood Queen, and for the past two years, the women have been working together as directors of the Phoenixville Jaycees Dogwood Pageant.
Both Hurter and Viscuso have worked many hours on many aspects of the pageant, including setting the stage and working out behind-the-scenes logistics of the April 12, 2008 event.
Though vitally important to a performance, scenography, the art of creating the set for a stage, is simply one part of the pageant. This is only the creative part of our involvement. Productions are costly undertakings that require the work of numerous people behind the scenes, substantial funding and a strong commitment from all involved in order to be successful.
“Our approach to directing the contestants was to bring out the best of their talents, values, and personalities. We hope to help them make a memory that will always be an important part of who they are, where they came from and where they want to go on their journey through life” said Viscuso. “We also have returning contestants who want to continue to be a part of the production.”
“Each one of these contestants brings something special to the performance which promises to be a great evening of entertainment,” said Hurter.
Viscuso and Hurter hope that as we watch the physical revitalization of Phoenixville and come out to support community events, we also include the Dogwood Pageant, held Saturday April 12th at 7pm in Samuel K. Barkley Elementary School auditorium, Second Ave. Phoenixville. Tickets can be purchased from the contestants or at Ultimate Hair Salon, 365 Nutt Road, Phoenixville, 610-933-8302 at a cost of $10.00 for general admission.
This year’s Dogwood Ball is being held at the Club at Shannondell on Egypt Road in Audubon on Friday evening May 9th. The public is cordially invited to attend. The cost is $36.00 per person. Cash bar begins at 6:30 pm and dinner is served at 7:00 pm. DJ and Live music from 7:30 until 10:30 pm
Full course dinner includes a Tossed Garden Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette dressing and a choice of three entrees.

Chicken Marsala with Mushrooms and Fresh Herbs
Top Sirloin with Merlot Wine Demi Glaze
Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes with Champagne Mustard Sauce
all with Herb roasted potatoes and seasoned green beans with thyme butter

Warm Apple Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream
Dinners include soda, ice tea, fresh brewed coffee and hot tea, rolls and butter.
Advanced Tickets only are on sale at the Ultimate Hair Salon, Nutt Road and Second Ave. Phoenixville, or call Donna at 610-948-7066 by April 29th
There will be no tickets sold at the Door.