Sinatra impersonator does it 'his way'

Against the background of a lit-up Philadelphia skyline, "Ol' Blue Eyes" treated partygoers to some of his most popular hits Friday night when Harrison College House hosted a "Sinatra and Antipasto" event in its rooftop lounge. The event featured elaborate dZcor, swing dancing lessons, a selection of antipasti and a truly lifelike Frank Sinatra impersonator. Part of the "Penn p.m." program that seeks to provide weekend alternatives to the drinking scene, Harrison House's rooftop dances gained popularity and a following last year. "We developed a concept last year for the dances," House Dean Art Casciato said. "And it seems to be working quite well." Past rooftop dances have featured live Afro-Cuban, jazz and swing music. But why a Sinatra impersonator? Casciato happened in on a club in his old neighborhood and found there "the most authentic Sinatra impersonator I've ever heard." Indeed, Joe Barilla amazed the crowd with his crooning and his dramatic entrance. He sang renditions of favorites "Fly Me to the Moon" and "The Best is Yet to Come" so realistically that more than a few wondered if he was "for real." Some even ventured out onto the dance floor during his set. Addressing the crowd of post-Sinatra-ites, he asked in disbelief, "Do you guys really know this music?" And although many in the crowd were familiar with Sinatra's music, earlier in the night students learned something that was altogether new. While the awkward first steps and bewildered faces showed an inexperienced swing dancing crowd, by the time DJ Ken Thompson finished instructing them, the participants were jumping, jiving and wailing with the best of them. One dancer was even spotted in era-appropriate attire, complete with white bobby socks and Mary Janes -- shiny black patent leather shoes worn during the 1940s. "We decided to take a chance with something different this year," Casciato said. College sophomore Mariel Focseneanu said she thinks Penn p.m. is a great idea. "If I wasn't at this event, I'd probably be at a frat." Still, others attended the event for a different reason. Wharton sophomore Robbie Smith turned out for "the food for the $1 donation." Casciato stressed that all proceeds collected with the $1 donations would be donated to the charity Coaches vs. Cancer. Comprised of local college basketball coaches, the organization is near to Casciato because of his close friendship with Penn basketball coach Fran Dunphy. Some students were content to sit on the sidelines, enjoying the antipasti, the company and the view. "I love swing music," College sophomore Marteki Dodoo said. "My friends were coming and it's Friday night, so I want to relax and release some tension."