Shanna Sharp
Good food, fabulous entertainment, and a great cause are coming together at Christ Episcopal Church in downtown Poughkeepsie for Pasta & Pride, a special dinner and cabaret on Friday, October 23, 2026, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
The evening will bring together friends, neighbors, and members of the Hudson Valley's LGBTQ+ community and their allies for a celebration of music, laughter, inclusion, and community—all while raising funds to renovate the historic church's kitchen.
For generations, Christ Church has been a gathering place for worship, fellowship, and community service. Its kitchen plays an important role in that ministry, supporting parish meals, special events, and hospitality. Funds raised through Pasta & Pride will help modernize the kitchen, making it more functional and better equipped to serve both the congregation and the wider Poughkeepsie community.
The festivities begin with a pasta dinner from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., followed by a cabaret performance at 7:30 p.m.featuring acclaimed entertainers Shanna Sharp and Brian J. Nash.
Shanna Sharp is a singer-songwriter and recording artist known for her soulful voice, engaging storytelling, and captivating stage presence. Originally from Alabama, Sharp has performed at some of New York City's celebrated music and cabaret venues, including Joe's Pub, Birdland, and the historic Stonewall Inn. Her music blends folk, pop, and Americana with humor, heart, and a distinctly personal style.
Joining her is Brian J. Nash, an award-winning pianist, singer, musical director, and producer whose career spans Broadway-related productions, New York cabaret, and international performances. Nash has collaborated with celebrated artists including Audra McDonald, Jennifer Holliday, Deborah Cox, and Ana Gasteyer. Together, Sharp and Nash promise an unforgettable evening of wonderful music, laughter, and a few surprises.
“Pasta & Pride is about bringing people together, celebrating who we are, and reminding our community that everyone has a place at the table,” said the Rev. Tommy Dillon, Interim Rector of Christ Episcopal Church. “We're also raising money to renovate our church kitchen, which is at the heart of so much of our hospitality and community life. What better way to support that work than gathering around tables for good food, great music, and a little fabulousness?”
The celebration takes place during October's LGBTQ+ History Month, a time to recognize the history, contributions, and resilience of LGBTQ+ people. For Christ Church, the occasion also reflects the congregation's commitment to being a welcoming and affirming spiritual home for all people.
“We believe the Church should be a place where people experience God's love, not judgment or exclusion,” Dillon added. “You don't have to be Episcopalian—or even religious—to come enjoy the evening. Just bring your appetite, your friends, and a willingness to have a good time!”
Pasta & Pride is generously sponsored by Goodnight Kenny, a popular Poughkeepsie gathering place and supporter of the local LGBTQ+ community. Christ Church is grateful for Goodnight Kenny's partnership in helping make this special evening possible.
Following the cabaret, guests are invited to continue the festivities at an informal after-party at Goodnight Kenny.
Tickets are $20 for dinner, $20 for the cabaret, or $35 for both. Guests may enjoy the dinner, the performance, or the entire evening.
Advance tickets are available through Zeffy:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/annual-galapasta-and-pride-a-dinner-and-concert-for-the-community
Everyone is welcome! Whether you're a longtime parishioner, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, or simply someone looking for a wonderful Friday evening, Pasta & Pride promises a memorable night while supporting a historic Poughkeepsie church and its continued service to the community.