Music, friendship, and cheers filled the Brookville mansion ballroom on October 28 as Coleen Mackin, singer/songwriter, self-advocate, and Quality Assurance Trainer, hosted a lively Halloween concert and costume contest.
The event brought together people supported by Day Services in Farmingdale, Freeport, and Hicksville, along with community members from the mansion and Wheatley Farms—all ready to enjoy Coleen’s music and creativity.
On a stage with drums, guitars, and microphones, Coleen was accompanied by Edward “Eddie” Becker, her vocal coach and friend, along with performances from two local heavy metal rock bands ILLMONSTRO and Carve a Path.
The crowd buzzed with anticipation as Stanfort Perry, CEO of AHRC Nassau, greeted the crowd. “Coleen, as we all know, is a strong self-advocate,” Stanfort said. “She’s so supportive of everybody and it’s great that we can be here today to support her and these terrific bands. I look forward to hearing them throughout the day, playing music which is going to fill this building and lift our spirits.”
“Thank you Stanfort. Let’s have some ‘Rockin’ Fun!” Coleen shouted into the microphone just as the drums, guitar, and Eddie’s voice filled the room.
The crowd clapped and nodded their heads along to “Welcome to the Machine” by Pink Floyd before cheering on Coleen as she performed “This is Me” from The Greatest Showman and “Macy’s Day Parade” by Green Day.
Coleen was truly living her dream, showcasing a talent she had been honing for years. Coleen and Eddie have worked together for five years and stayed friends for five more. Throughout this ten-year relationship, Eddie noticed how she’s grown in confidence and technical ability.
“She is more outspoken than she was when we first met,” Eddie said. “Her pitch and timing have improved over the years. She’s come a long way.”
As the celebration wrapped up, guests in festive costumes were awarded certificates and posed for photos with Coleen and the bands. Everyone left with a goodie bag filled with candy and crafts as a sweet reminder to keep rockin’!