CGMC ‘unplugged’ for holidays | Entertainment News | beverlyreview.net – The Beverly Review
The Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC) and special guest Chicago Tap Theatre will celebrate the holiday spirit with some a cappella favorites and holiday classics in “CGMC: unplugged” on Sunday, Dec. 5, at 3 p.m., at Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St.
The audience will join almost 150 singing members of the chorus and 20 dancers as they sing and dance through holiday classics including two spirituals by Jester Hairston, “Silver Bells,” a new rendition of “Carol of the Bells,” a Hanukkah parody and Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You.”
“Very much like MTV in the 1990s,” said Artistic Director James Morehead, “we are doing some acoustic versions for this show paired with some seasonal favorites.”
CGMC has been working hard, staying safe and adhering to strict COVID-19 protocol and procedures. Singers were split into two groups to rehearse so that social distancing could be practiced, and masks were required for all rehearsals.
For members who were not ready to be in a room full of people, rehearsals were broadcast on Zoom.
“We are managing,” said Morehead, “and, thankfully, the music-making is still occurring.”
The prospect of performing onstage again brought several members back to the chorus, both new and returning. The strong sense of community that permeates the organization is being rebuilt and revived.
“I’m thrilled to sit in front of a room of singers again and not a screen of boxes,” said Morehead. “For our first large show back with everyone, I purposely planned for a few backups in case we had to pivot again like we did at the beginning of the pandemic.”
Masks must be worn at all times in each venue. Visit the BAC website for more information and requirements.
Tickets range from $25 to $52 with additional per-ticket fees.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the website at cgmc.org.