Chicago Gay Men's Chorus (CGMC) proudly announces its upcoming spectacular showcase, "Party Like it's 1983," as the grand finale of the 40th Anniversary Season. This electrifying show promises to transport audiences back in time to the vibrant era of the early '80s! Celebrate the rich history and progress of the LGBTQIA+ community May 17-19, 2024 at three Chicagoland locations! Visit cgmc.org/spring for more info and tickets.
Inspired by the chorus's founding year 1983, Artistic Director James J. Morehead shares, "As we close out our 40th season, it was exciting to reflect back to the very beginnings of CGMC. What was happening at the time? Who was on the radio? What were we wearing? At such a momentous milestone, we are taking a moment to celebrate where we've come from and honor those who made this possible today."
"Party Like it's 1983" offers a nostalgic journey through the cultural landscape of the early '80s, featuring tributes to iconic movies like "Flashdance" and "Risky Business," alongside chart-topping hits from artists like Cyndi Lauper, Duran Duran, and Journey. The show's creative process involved extensive research into historical events, cultural trends, and musical highlights of the era, culminating in a dynamic and immersive experience for audiences.
Talking about the show's significance, Morehead remarks, "We take a few moments to reflect on how much things have or haven't changed since 1983, especially in our opening number." The Chorus takes time to ruminate on how far the LGBTQIA+ community has come since that founding year.
"Party Like it's 1983" not only celebrates the past but also embraces inclusivity and acceptance, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie within CGMC and beyond. Morehead adds, "The wide variety of music reflects the wide variety of singers in CGMC. All the different styles and genres give us each a moment to shine."
As audiences immerse themselves in the magic of "Party Like it's 1983," CGMC hopes to entertain and inspire reflection on social progress. "Most of the show will be familiar, but in true CGMC style, there are a few curve balls," says Morehead.
"Party Like it's 1983" promises to be an unforgettable celebration of music and community, inviting audiences to join CGMC on a journey through time and memory. For more information and ticket purchases, visit cgmc.org/spring.
WHEN/WHERE
- Friday, May 17, 2024 at 8:00 PM - Studebaker Theatre, Fine Arts Building,410 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
- Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 8:00 PM - North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60077
- Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 3:00 PM - Northeastern Illinois University Auditorium, 5500 N St Louis Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
TICKETS
Tickets range from $25 - $50 with additional per ticket fees. All sales are final – no refunds or exchanges. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.cgmc.org/spring.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Find us online on Facebook: @ChiGMC, X: @chicagogmc, and Instagram: @cgmc.
ABOUT CHICAGO GAY MEN’S CHORUS
The Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC) has been an integral part of Chicago’s cultural and gay communities since 1983. For more than three decades, the chorus has entertained audiences across the continent with innovative musical programming exploring everything from love to politics to the sometimes fabulous, sometimes challenging world of being gay; often all at the same time. Our always-memorable performances have included original musical revues; full-length book musicals; traditional choral concerts and intimate cabaret presentations; all punctuated with our signature joyous irreverence. Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus was inducted into the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame in 2001. Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs presented CGMC with the 2023 award for Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities in honor of LGBTQIA+ history month in October 2023. The Chicago City Council passed a resolution celebrating CGMC’s 40th Anniversary in December 2023, and the Chorus was recognized by Mayor Brandon Johnson.