June 26, 1981
History
Approaching the start or its third year, the Windy City Gay Chorus finds itself involved in many exciting projects. At the time of this writing. the possibility of performing in Orchestra Hall during the 81-82 season grows stronger each day. Hopefully as you are with us tonight, plans will have been finalized. Also on the calendar is a 1982 joint concert with the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus in New York over Valentine’s Day weekend . (The following year, they will join us here in Chicago.) A major fundraising campaign gets underway with this evening’s performance to provide for the sizeable transportation cost that we will incur. We hope that you will be inspired to help in this important event.
Perhaps the single most exciting project already in the planning stages is the first North American Gay Choral Festival. At the initial meeting of the Directors and managers of the Gay/Lesbian Choruses hosted by the WCGC last month, it was decided to hold concert(s) in New York City during September of 1983. (Are you ready for Radio City Music Hall?) There are currently eighteen choruses in the U.S. and Canada with a combined membership in excess of 1,000 voices that will be participating in the historic event.
But what about the Chorus today? Founded by Jerry Carlson, recently appointed musical director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles, and with the love and support of its many dedicated members, WCGC has grown to become a viable participant in Chicago’s music circles. At the same time, it continues to put forth a strong positive image of the Gay/Lesbian Community both for those within and outside of its ranks.
Windy City Performing Arts 