First concert in series on Oct. 22 in Haddonfield
Greater South Jersey Chorus opens its 25th anniversary concert season with an impressive number of firsts.
Christopher Thomas The chorus, nearing 100 voices, has expanded rapidly under the artistic direction of Dr. Christopher Thomas. For the first time, the chorus will perform as guest ensemble in Handel's Messiah with Symphony in C on Dec. 10 in the Gordon Theater at Rutgers, Camden.
Also, for the first time in its 25-year history, the chorus will offer a subscription series for 2016-17 concerts and special events.
The first concert in the series is the Artists' Showcase on Oct. 22. In another first, Thomas will leave the conductor's podium and step onto the stage as a soloist, performing "Go Lovely Rose" by Roger Quilter. He will be joined in the Showcase by a cast of chorus members in varied solo roles, both vocal and instrumental, at 7 p.m., Haddonfield Center and School for the Performing Arts, 19 Kings Highway. (Admission is $20; tickets available at http://gsjcshowcase2016.bpt.me)
"Though all of the pieces come from the realm of the traditional literature, there is a lightness to this year's selections," said John Vovak, production manager. "If you are a person who typically avoids classical recitals, you will be surprised. We have something different in store for you this year -- the lighter side of the classics."
Following the Artists' Showcase in the subscription series are two major holiday concerts: Jubilate! on Dec. 17 at 8 p.m., St. Isaac Jogues Roman Catholic Church, Marlton and Dec. 18 at 3 p.m., Catholic Community of Christ Our Light, Cherry Hill. Those concerts will feature both organ and brass performing a celebratory repertoire with the chorus.
The 2017 spring season begins March 4 when members claim the stage in their seventh annual staging of Cabaret! featuring varied acts in a sophisticated nightclub setting. On March 30, the 25th Anniversary Gala celebrates with Vino Forte, four courses of choral music paired with wines and cheeses.
The 2016-17 season concludes with a grand finale on May 16. Thomas and Greater South Jersey Chorus will perform Haydn's The Creation. More information about future events will be available on the chorus website, www.greatersouthjerseychorus.org.
This item submitted by Kathy Farinaccio for the Greater South Jersey Chorus.