JP SCHUITEMAN
WRITER-REVIEWER
Presents ...
DIVAS
SD GAY MEN'S CHORUS
Per JP Schuiteman
The extravaganza – DIVAS - an electrifying evening at San Diego's most stunning venue, the Balboa Theater! DIVAS by the San Diego Gay Men's Chorus (SDGMC), honored songstresses who have inspired, and often supported, the LGBTQ community. Webster defines the term DIVA as: “appearing in late 19th century by way of Italian, from original Latin and literally means ‘goddess.” Those in attendance, were treated to a sampling from amazing artists, who have made their mark on both the LGBTQ and the American cultures. A show to glorify our modern day Goddesses, over 20 songstresses were represented with full songs or as part of medleys.
The extravaganza – DIVAS - an electrifying evening at San Diego's most stunning venue, the Balboa Theater! DIVAS by the San Diego Gay Men's Chorus (SDGMC), honored songstresses who have inspired, and often supported, the LGBTQ community. Webster defines the term DIVA as: “appearing in late 19th century by way of Italian, from original Latin and literally means ‘goddess.” Those in attendance, were treated to a sampling from amazing artists, who have made their mark on both the LGBTQ and the American cultures. A show to glorify our modern day Goddesses, over 20 songstresses were represented with full songs or as part of medleys.
ZERO IN ON
“DIVAS”
San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus
Where: Balboa Theatre
Dates: July 29th & 30th, 2017
www.sdgmc.com
As Artistic Director, RC Haus said during his introduction, the SDGMC is less a chorus and more a show! And, that was truly my experience, as the action never stopped; complete with lights, props, fog and humongous disco ball! (Jessie Medofer Stage manager, Michael Von Hoffman Lighting Designer.) The huge Chorus, was joined not only by dancers, but a succession of entertainers, including twirlers (Righteously Outrageous Twirling Corps aka ROTC), gymnasts and other performers. Great work by the Choreographers: Joe Gregore (Producer and Choreographer) Keith Elliot (Lead Choreographer) and Charles Brown IV.
Supporting the singers, was the JazzKatz Orchestra led by Chaz Cabera. Much of the evening’s music premiered new arrangements created by Cabera. These skillful renditions of well known songs, were transformed to showcase the talents of this outstanding choir.
Many wonderful soloists performed throughout - including San Diego favorite Janice Edwards (singing “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor), who brought the already enthusiastic crowd to it's feet. Other great soloists throughout the evening, included Bryan Stanton (“Jolene”), Daniel James (“Someone Like You”), Eric Ayaso (“My Heart Will Go On”), Kori Gillis (“Hero”) and the impressive Mitch Alvarado (“I Will Always Love You”).
Many wonderful soloists performed throughout - including San Diego favorite Janice Edwards (singing “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor), who brought the already enthusiastic crowd to it's feet. Other great soloists throughout the evening, included Bryan Stanton (“Jolene”), Daniel James (“Someone Like You”), Eric Ayaso (“My Heart Will Go On”), Kori Gillis (“Hero”) and the impressive Mitch Alvarado (“I Will Always Love You”).
The Choir, is partially supported by the Sycuan Casino, which is a terrific win for SDGMC in this challenging time for Arts Funding. It was announced, that in addition to future shows at the Balboa, there will also be shows held at the Sycuan Casino. Both venues have their unique perks! As expected, with an enterprise of this proportion … there are many, many other donors as well.
Ultimately, the real Divas of this show, was not the women being honored as much as the Choir itself. The singers of the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus displayed awesome talent! The high point for me, was the Cyndi Lauper song “TRUE COLORS”. Introduced in recognition and support for those in the Trans Community, who continue their struggle for acceptance, and who were recently attacked by the U.S. President. Performed A Capella, this song showcased the harmonizing talents in this amazing and heartfelt rendition. The unified joy radiated out … and uplifted all!
Ultimately, the real Divas of this show, was not the women being honored as much as the Choir itself. The singers of the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus displayed awesome talent! The high point for me, was the Cyndi Lauper song “TRUE COLORS”. Introduced in recognition and support for those in the Trans Community, who continue their struggle for acceptance, and who were recently attacked by the U.S. President. Performed A Capella, this song showcased the harmonizing talents in this amazing and heartfelt rendition. The unified joy radiated out … and uplifted all!
If you haven't seen this magnificent SD Gay Men's Chorus, their holiday show "JINGLE" was also a sell-out,
at the Balboa Theater.
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at the Balboa Theater.
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