Submitted by: Just Be You Performing Arts
A diverse group of models; ranging in age from 5 years old, to over 50, dazzled a sold-out audience, during The Runway In Rahway, held at the Union County Performing Arts Center Main Stage Café on Sunday, September 10, 2017. The Runway In Rahway is a premier boutique style fashion show featuring local boutiques and designers. Built on a foundation of diversity; the event showcased models from all walks of life.
“My objective for The Runway In Rahway is to give a voice to local designers and boutiques. Being a small business owner can be challenging. This event afforded them the opportunity to wow a full house of guests with their amazing collection of clothing. It was absolutely sensational. The audience cheered, clapped, and whistled. The show sold-out. There was standing room only. Rahway has never seen a show quite like that before. We look forward to coming back soon,” said Reynolds-Clarke, the founder and executive director of Just Be You Performing Arts; the organization that produced the show.
“I am thankful to Ms. Mahogany for throwing a great show. I was pleased to be a part of it,” said Delores Serecin, of Delor Couture; based in Rahway, who showcased her collection of custom made evening dresses in a stunning array of colors and styles.
Another Rahway based business owner, Kathy Givens, owner of Kat’s Vintage and Chic Boutique revealed a variety of garments; from dresses and two piece ensembles. The audience was taken back in time, as the models showcased unique clothing from her vintage store located downtown.
In addition to supporting local businesses, Reynolds-Clarke also set out to create a show that included a diverse group of models. She opened the auditions to all shapes, sizes and ages. The result was a unique group combined of mom’s, teenagers, young adults, seniors, and toddlers. For many of the participants, this was their first professional modeling job.
“My children and I participated in The Runway In Rahway and it was our first fashion show. Walking the runway was truly a wonderful and exhilarating experience. Ms. Mahogany and her team, as well as the designers, took the time to ensure that all of the models were important and respected. We are all looking forward to participating in the future. And now, as a result of this experience, my children are looking to enhance their career through modeling. We thank you Just Be You Performing Arts for an amazing event and an unforgettable experience,” said Jana DiCervo, a mother in Rahway, NJ who modeled professionally for the first time. Initially, her intention was to bring her children to audition as models, but Reynolds-Clarke encouraged her to pursue a life-long dream, and model as well.
“As a parent, it was important for me to develop a show that included everyone. I believe that beauty is all encompassing. The Runway In Rahway allowed those who may have believed they were too short, or too old, or too this or that, to be a runway model. We completely dispelled those myths,” said Reynolds-Clarke, who coaches and mentors aspiring models.
“By participating in The Runway In Rahway I gained a stronger sense of teamwork.I also gained modeling experience and found out I really love it. The show was unique, because it featured people of all sizes and ages. There was no size restriction or age restriction. It was an open environment where everyone could be themselves,” said Bella DiDomenico, 15-year’s-old, of Matawan, New Jersey.
Photos from The Runway In Rahway can be seen on their Facebook page; www.facebook.com/therunwayinrahway. Plans are underway for the next show. For information on how to audition as a model; or participate as a designer or boutique, contact Just Be You Performing Arts at: justbeyoustudios@gmail.com.
