In March, the Boise Gay Men’s Chorus performed two outreach concerts in Pocatello and Idaho Falls. Each city got a dose of Broadway flair through song, as the chorus performed a variety of hits from award winning musicals like Cats, Rent, Hairspray, Les Miserables, and more! As usual, BGMC added their own special touch to many songs, updating gender roles in hits traditionally sung by women. Each show was hosted by local organizations, both Dragapalooza in Idaho Falls and FCUCC and Trinity Episcopal churches in Pocatello. These concerts, while performed for vastly different audiences, shared similar messages through the variety of Broadway show themes. Most importantly, each song performed was a message of love, hope, and inspiration.
The program, which was also performed to Boise March 27 & 28, consisted of both serious and fun songs. Jeremy Gross brought the audience to tears with Not My Father’s Son, wearing six inch heels in the process. Seasons of Love and No Day but Today, both from Rent, are songs that director Adam Wade Duncan said “really drive home the message that right now is the time to make positive change.” Other comedic pieces like Forget about the Boy and Gentlemen’s Choice (formerly Ladies’ Choice) kept the audience giggling unexpectedly. Overall, each performance was well received and people were grateful for a visit by the fast growing Boise chorus. “BGMC again brought diversity and an inspiring message to Idaho cities that don’t normally have access to these types of performances.” Rodney Busbee, organizer of Boise Pridefest.
The mission of the Boise Gay Men’s Chorus is to open hearts and minds through creative expression. The chorus used this trip as an opportunity to share this mission with new audiences as well as a bonding opportunity. On Saturday, there was a membership retreat geared towards revealing why each person was a part of BGMC.
There were group activities, opportunities to share ideas and feelings, and most importantly, it was a safe place for everyone participating. “Both tears were shed and much laughter was shared. A renewed sense of pride could be seen in the chorus Saturday night, during and after the show.” Fernando Menendez, Chorus president.
BGMC loves taking pictures and posting events on Facebook to let all our friends and family know what we’re up to. To see more pictures of what happened during our trip, check out Boise Gay Men’s Chorus on Facebook. Also, visit www.boisegaymenschorus.com to see the latest offerings of tickets as well as events held locally!
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