In 2005, John Abernathy was featured in the 16th Annual New York Cabaret Convention at Lincoln Center in a tribute to Broadway composer Jerry Herman sharing the stage with legendary performers Lee Roy Reams, Michael Feinstein, Marilyn Maye, and Mr. Herman himself. That same year, he also received a nomination for Best Male Cabaret Performer from the Independent Reviewers of New England (IRNE) for his show A Cock-Eyed Optimist at Club Café in Boston, and he released his debut CD Look Straight Ahead. John has appeared as an actor in many theatres across the country and toured internationally as pianist and soloist with the musical group Up With People including a performance with the National Symphony Orchestra.