Hollywood actor, musician to perform Benefit Concert for Central Catholic High School

John Corbett returning home to play for alma mater

WHEELING — Hollywood movie star and acclaimed musician John Corbett will perform a fist-ever benefit concert for Central Catholic High School (CCHS), Corbett’s high school alma mater.

On April 11 at 8 p.m., the doors of the White Palace will open to host The John Corbett Band. Performing songs from his self-titled debut album, Corbett will entertain the crowd with his southern rock-style of music. Corbett, a CCHS graduate from the Class of ’79, is known for his hit television roles on “Northern Exposure” and “Sex and the City” as well as standout performances in such films as “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” “Raising Helen,” and most recently “The Messengers.”

“Music has always been central to my life, much more so than acting,” Corbett says on his website. “Acting is how I make my living. Music has always been a passion—it’s something I love, something I can’t live without.”

The staff, students and alumni of Wheeling Central warmly welcome Corbett back to the Friendly City for a special event that the entire community can enjoy. “We’re very proud of Johnnie’s career accomplishments but even more proud of his steadfast support of Wheeling Central and its students,” said Joe Viglietta, CCHS principal. “He’s taking time out of a very busy filming schedule just to come to Wheeling for the day to help us raise money for our student tuition assistance fund. He really cares about the kids here and their future.”

Born and raised on the 14th Street block of East Wheeling, Corbett talks fondly of his childhood and his school years at Wheeling Central and Wheeling Catholic Elementary. It was during those early years, that Corbett gained an appreciation for music. John and his mother lived in an apartment five blocks from The Capitol Music Hall. As a kid, Corbett hung out at his uncle’s music club. It was there he would see country and rock musicians who stopped there after playing a show at the Capitol Music Hall.

After graduating in 1979, Corbett moved to California to work in a steel mill. It was only after he watched a friend’s audition that he decided to pursue an acting career. After a few TV commercial jobs, Corbett landed his first real acting break on "The Wonder Years" (1988) playing a hippie who was dating Kevin Arnold's older sister. Corbett’s mother and his life-long friend and classmate, Greg George, continue to live in the Wheeling area. George’s son, Gregory, a sophomore at Wheeling Central, is Corbett’s godson.

Following his benefit concert, Corbett will mingle with the crowd and be available for autographs and photos. Tickets, which go on sale March 17, cost $40 per person and include light appetizers at the show. Seating is limited. To purchase tickets, please call CCHS at (304) 233-1660. All concert proceeds will go to Central families in financial need.

With a foundation dating back to the 19th century, a faith-based education stands as the hallmark of Wheeling Central Catholic High School. Located in the heart of The Friendly City, Wheeling Central is proud of its 420-member student body and their outstanding academic, athletic, and community service achievements. One of seven Catholic High Schools in West Virginia, Wheeling Central is where championship lives begin.