The South Wales Gay Men's Chorus is finally set to return to the stage after over two years away due to the Pandemic. The Chorus will be heading to the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama on April 2, presenting their much-awaited comeback performance 'Together Again'.
The chorus has been together since 2008 and has undergone significant transformation and change over that time. They have grown from a small group of like-minded singers to an internationally recognised award-winning choir, and a loved and respective part of South Wales' LGBT+ community. Read More: First look inside Gareth Bale's new Cardiff city centre mini-golf bar Par 59
Having been away from performing for so long, the idea behind the choir's return has been centered around inclusion, bringing the LGBT+ community together and celebrating lives and stories through their songs. This initiative became even more important after the choir was forced into a performing hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Many members of the 40 strong chorus see it as an "integral" part of caring for themselves and promoting their own, and others', mental wellbeing. The lockdown and restrictions were especially hard on the chorus. Many members said that the chorus is the only social outlet they have and something that they look forward to attending every week.
The concert is deliberately entitled, ‘Together Again’ which underlines why inclusion and connection are more important than ever to those in marginalised communities.
“We’re so excited to re-connect with our audience at the concert. Now that the Covid protections have eased, singing in person is back on the schedule and we wasted no time getting a program of songs together and scheduled a concert as soon as we could," Chair of the Chorus, Craig Stephenson OBE said.
“We are overjoyed to be able to welcome along two of South Wales' other premier LGBT+ choirs – The Songbirds and the Cardiff Trans Singers, both of whom will be performing on the night. All is set for a long-awaited inclusive and uplifting evening."
There have been multiple changes to the Chorus, which, according to the group, will be noticed by regular audience members. Founder and Musical Director of the chorus, Andy Bulleyment, recently stood down from his role after years of service. Taking his place is composer and accompanist, Christopher Fossey.
“We’ve been rehearsing for months on a programme of songs covering a wide range of genres, from some of our old favorites to brand new offerings," Christopher Fossey added.
"Feeling the enthusiasm and energy of chorus members as they prepare to perform again has been a particular highlight. To wet your appetite we can confirm there is everything from ABBA, Erasure to Radiohead on the menu, so there is an eclectic mix and something for everyone.”
The Chorus is known for adding in some "twinkle toe" choreography to go along with their singing. Audience members can expect one great performance as one of south Wales' treasures returns to the live stage once more. More information about the event can be found here.
