SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS ANNOUNCES LINEUP FOR IN-PERSON SEASON

SEASON 44 TO INCLUDE THE RETURN OF SFGMC’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA, A GROUNDBREAKING WORLD PREMIERE FEATURING THE WORKS OF 13 COMPOSERS AND LYRICISTS, AND A FAREWELL CONCERT WITH THE SAN FRANCISCO SYMPHONY FOR ARTISTIC DIRECTOR DR. TIMOTHY SEELIG

SAN FRANCISCO (September 23, 2021)—Today, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig and Executive Director Chris Verdugo announced the three-concert lineup for Season 44. Featuring the 250+ singers of the chorus, the in-person season will kick-off with the return of SFGMC’s annual holiday extravaganza, Holigays Are Here...Again! This will mark the SFGMC’s return to live performance for the first time in over two years. The Spring 2022 concert, Voices Rising, features a groundbreaking world premiere movement with works of 13 renowned composers and lyricists. The season will conclude with Final Words, a farewell concert featuring the San Francisco Symphony for Seelig who will be retiring at the end of Season 44.

Conductor’s Society memberships (starting at donations of $120 or more) are available now at sfgmc.org/conductors-society. Member benefits include discounts, presale opportunities, event invitations, and more.

“It is with immense gratitude and humility that we return to live, in-person performances,” said Verdugo. “Season 44 will celebrate SFGMC’s tradition of creating music together and sharing in a collective experience. The last 18 months have taught us that we are truly in this together. We are grateful for the support of our community during these challenging times and look forward to lifting each other up through music.” 

“Season 44 is going to be the best of new and old,” adds Seelig. “We are thrilled to be presenting a huge world premiere—perhaps our largest to date—and, at the same time, bringing back our favorite hits from the last 10 seasons. From the first note of the holiday concerts, through the spring world premiere, and to the final notes with friends in July 2022, this season is one for the books.”

SFGMC rings in the holiday season with its annual seasonal extravaganza, Holigays Are Here...Again (December 10–11, 18–19, & 24, 2021). Returning to the stage for the first time since the 2019 holiday season, SFGMC brings back everything that has made this concert one of San Francisco Bay Area’s annual signature holiday treats. This year’s concert will feature something for everyone, including “Little Drummer Boy,” “Go Tell It On The Mountain,” “Los Peces en el Rio,” and “Over the River.” Featuring special guests: Marcus J. Paige, Andrés Vera, and Enrique Carreon. Holigays Are Here...Again will perform at San Francisco’s Sydney Goldstein Theater on December 10 & 11 (click for tickets); Rohnert Park’s Green Music Center on December 18 (click for tickets); Berkeley’s Freight & Salvage on December 19 (click for tickets); and San Francisco’s historic Castro Theatre on December 24.

Next, SFGMC will present a major musical event entitled Voices Rising (April 10, 2021). In the early part of the 20th century, the city of San Francisco adopted the rising phoenix as a symbol of having overcome city-wide challenges. It is only fitting that this groundbreaking evening includes the world premiere of Songs of the Phoenix. Tony Award-nominated Broadway composer Andrew Lippa has curated an incredible group of 13 composers and lyricists representing an extraordinary diversity of voices including Ty Defoe, Alexandra Elle, Siedah Garrett, Joriah Kwame, Patrick and Daniel Lazour, Melissa Li, Ingrid Michaelson, Stephen Schwartz, Stephen Sondheim, Diana Syrse, and Kit Yan. The evening will take place at San Francisco’s Davies Symphony Hall.

Closing out the season, SFGMC will present Final Words (July 13, 2022). The first performance under the baton of Dr. Timothy Seelig took place at Davies Symphony Hall in 2011 and was titled “Words.” Celebrating the last concert of his tenure, SFGMC will present “Final Words.” Joined by the San Francisco Symphony for the first time in SFGMC’s 43-year history, the celebration will feature some of the chorus’s favorite pieces from the past 10 years, including Testimony by Stephen Schwartz, Unbreakable by Andrew Lippa and Tyler’s Suite, as well as other all-time SFGMC favorites. Special guests include the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir. Final Words will take place at San Francisco’s Davies Symphony Hall. 

# # #

About SFGMC

Founded in 1978, SFGMC sparked a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement after its first public performance at a vigil on the steps of City Hall following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. Since then, SFGMC has been embedded in the fabric of San Francisco. It has soothed souls in pain, lifted spirits in triumph, and has remained a steadfast beacon of hope.

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig, SFGMC has established a heightened level of performance standards bringing renewed audience and choral industry acclaim. Recent touring schedules, recordings, and outreach programs have broadened its impact and reputation in the community while maintaining its signature blend of humor, personality and ground-breaking performances. In 2019, SFGMC acquired a historic facility that has become its permanent home for rehearsals and offices. The building also serves as The Chan National Queer Arts Center, the first-ever community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations.

For more information on SFGMC, visit www.sfgmc.org
Visit SFGMC TV: www.sfgmc.org/sfgmctv

SFGMC Archive contact: archive@sfgmc.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfgmc

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sfgmc

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sfgmc

YouTube: www.youtube.com/sfgmcvideo

Statement from San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus July 9, 2021

“The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus was founded, in part, to fight discrimination and bigotry against all peoples. Today, our chorus members are facing death threats, vile attacks, false accusations, doxing, and other forms of harassment because of our satirical video performance “Message from the Gay Community.” 

“We placed the video in private mode to quell the intolerance and hateful responses from mostly anonymous people. Upon reflection, we have made it live again for all to see the satirical and obviously tongue-in-cheek humor. We want everyone to judge for themselves. We will not allow ourselves, even in the face of death threats, to retreat or bow to attempts to twist our words, meaning, self-deprecation and humor. 

“We are thankful for the efforts of the San Francisco Police Department and law enforcement for their quick response and assistance in handling these threats. 

“The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus is dedicated to being role models, teaching, and spreading the message of love, inclusion, humor, and celebration through our music. We believe, most fervently, in open dialogue , communication, and free speech.  We will continue to do so through our music.  We invite everyone to join us.”

Statement from GLAAD’s President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis
in support of San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus

The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus performed a tongue-in-cheek song commissioned by an external arts organization which ironically had a simple message around teaching young people to speak out against anti-LGBTQ hate. The Chorus sings in harmony, ‘Someone’s got to teach them not to hate.’ As a result of manipulation from anti-LGBTQ media figures, the Chorus is now facing uncalled-for and disgusting threats of violence, as well as hate and harassment, across social media. As GLAAD’s Social Media Safety Index reported, hate and harassment too often goes unchecked on social media and the platforms need to act swiftly to address the hateful content directed at the Chorus, especially the threats of violence. The ugly anti-LGBTQ rhetoric just reinforces the need for LGBTQ visibility, community, and advocacy, all of which the SFGMC has exemplified in its 40+ year history.”

SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS ARTISTIC DIRECTOR & CONDUCTOR DR. TIM SEELIG TO RETIRE AT THE CONCLUSION OF SFGMC’S SEASON 44

SAN FRANCISCO (June 29, 2021)—Following 10 seasons as Artistic Director & Conductor, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) Executive Director Chris Verdugo and Board Chair Glenn DeSandre announced today that Dr. Tim Seelig will retire at the conclusion of SFGMC’s Season 44 in 2022.

 “As I look back over the last decade with the chorus, the milestones are humbling,” said Seelig. “The chorus has been able to honor its commitment to music and mission. The music, new and old, has been glorious. The mission continues to stand as a beacon guiding this chorus through what is now 43 years. For me, the successes of these 10 seasons with SFGMC are not counted in numbers of singers or dollars, but in the lives and hearts moved by the music we have made together.”

 “San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus will forever be indebted to Tim for his many years of service and contributions to the chorus and our community,” said Verdugo. “During his tenure, the organization has seen an overwhelming increase in chorus members—expanding to over 300 singers—and he’s created an artistic product to rival some of the best men’s choral ensembles in the country. He helped elevate SFGMC to the global stage while also transforming the chorus into a worldwide leader in the LGBTQ+ choral movement. He’s been a partner, friend and leader.”

 “Anyone who has ever attended one of our concerts will agree that Tim is an incredible artistic visionary who has created a men's chorus that is among the best in the world.,” adds DeSandre. “Arguably though, his biggest legacy are the thousands of singers and audience members who have been galvanized to take up the mantle of social justice by Tim's artistry, musical commissions, and inspirational words. More than just a conductor he is a mentor, coach, father, brother, and friend to all of us and he will be greatly missed.”

 Considered one of the nation’s most prolific choral directors, Seelig has had an accomplished 10 seasons at San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus marked by several distinguished milestones, including the Lavender Pen Tour, the groundbreaking tour that took the chorus through five southern states in the fall of 2017; the subsequent release of “Gay Chorus Deep South,” the award-winning documentary chronicling the Lavender Pen Tour; the creation of the Artist Portal at San Francisco’s National AIDS Memorial Grove; the purchase of 170 Valencia, the new home of San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus and The Chan National Queer Arts Center; the launch of RHYTHM, SFGMC’s educational outreach program to youth that has stretched nationwide; and more.

 Throughout his tenure, Seelig forged intimate and important working collaborations with distinguished composers and musicians which have resulted in six major commissioned pieces of works. They include “Testimony” by Stephen Schwartz, “I Am Harvey Milk” by Andrew Lippa; “Tyler’s Suite,” featuring the work of nine celebrated composers including Jake Heggie, Ann Hampton Callaway, John Corigliano, Stephen Flaherty, and more; “#twitterlieder” by James Eakin; “Unbreakable” by Andrew Lippa; “@queerz” by Julian Hornik; and the upcoming “Songs of the Phoenix.” Many of these works have since been performed by other choral ensembles around the world.

 Says Tony Award nominee Andrew Lippa: “SFGMC will flourish after Tim’s mighty leadership concludes. The sign of all great leaders is exactly this: leave things better than when you started; influence the organization to keep growing in your absence; be proud and know you taught them and helped them reach their goals so they can set new, higher ones.  This is the legacy of Dr. Timothy Seelig. He is friend, mentor, teacher, leader, and forever, musician.”

 “Tim has been a driving force in the evolution of our movement,” adds GALA Choruses Executive Director Robin L. Godfrey. “His passion for artistic excellence has driven our choruses to new heights and his connections outside the LGBTQ choral world have enhanced our visibility. Under Tim’s leadership, the Turtle Creek Chorale and San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus have commissioned new music and films that eloquently tell our stories to millions around the world.  New talent will appear on the scene, but Tim’s imprint on the LGBT choral movement will live on for generations.”

 “For the past decade, Tim brought and shared his passion for music and mission to SFGMC in dramatic ways,” said Michael Tate, SFGMC Member and President of the Board of GALA Choruses. “He is a master storyteller and deftly takes the audience on a journey at every concert evoking his signature TLC: ‘tears, laughter and chill bumps.’ With his unique combination of good humor and unparalleled mastery of choral pedagogy, he has raised the musical bar for SFGMC to heights of which we had only dreamed.” 

Known for his enthusiasm and humor, Seelig has secured his place as an in-demand guest conductor and teacher across the United States and the globe. For 25 years, Seelig conducted annually at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. Other guest conducting highlights include conducting 700+ singers plus orchestra in “I Am Harvey Milk” in Denver; conducting the Guinness Book of World Record’s Longest Choral Concert; conducting the Canadian premiere of “Tyler’s Suite” in Ottawa; and the first openly gay man to conduct the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

Prior to joining San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, Seelig was Artistic Director & Conductor of Dallas’ Turtle Creek Chorale for 20 years, where he is currently Conductor Emeritus, and served on the faculty at Southern Methodist University for 14 years. Seelig’s early training was as a singer. He made his European operatic debut at the Staatsoper in St. Gallen, Switzerland and his solo recital debut at Carnegie Hall. He appeared as soloist in world premieres of composers including John Corigliano, Conrad Susa, and Peter Schikele.

Dr. Seelig holds four degrees, including the Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of North Texas and the Diploma from the Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria. He has authored numerous books and DVDs on choral technique including best-sellers “The Perfect Blend” and “The Perfect Rehearsal,” as well as “The Perfect Choral Workbook,” “Quick Choral Fixes,” and “The Music Within.” In 2020, Seelig released his memoir, “Tale of Two Tims: Big Ol’ Baptist, Big Ol’ Gay.”

In 2022, Dr. Seelig will have been conducting LGBTQ+ choruses for 35 years.

A committee led by Paul Saccone and Maren Amdal will formally launch the search for SFGMC’s next Artistic Director on August 1.  

ARTS EDUCATION ADVOCATE JONI BINDER AND SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS PRESENT AUTHOR CHASTEN BUTTIGIEG IN CONVERSATION WITH SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE ARTS & CULTURE REPORTER TONY BRAVO

THE FREE, VIRTUAL EVENT COINCIDES WITH THE RELEASE OF BUTTIGIEG’S NEW MEMOIR, I HAVE SOMETHING TO TELL YOU

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29 • 5:30 P.M. PT

SAN FRANCISCO (October 13, 2020)—Arts education advocate Joni Binder and San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) will present author and educator Chasten Buttigieg in conversation with San Francisco Chronicle Arts & Culture reporter Tony Bravo on Thursday, October 29 at 5:30 p.m. PT. The free, virtual event coincides with the release of Buttigieg’s new memoir, I Have Something to Tell You. To RSVP, visit https://www.sfgmc.org/chasten/.

Guests are encouraged to shop local and support community bookseller partners—Dog Eared Books in San Francisco’s Castro District and Orinda Books in Orinda, CA—by purchasing a copy of the book before the event. These purchases include a signed copy of the book and special access to a video call with Chasten before the main event.

Throughout the past year, teacher Chasten Glezman Buttigieg has emerged on the national stage, having left his classroom in South Bend, Indiana, to travel cross-country in support of his husband, former mayor Pete Buttigieg, and Pete’s groundbreaking presidential campaign. Through Chasten’s joyful, witty social media posts, the public gained a behind-the-scenes look at his life with Pete on the trail— moments that might have ranged from the mundane to the surprising, but that were always heartfelt.

Chasten has overcome a multitude of obstacles to get here. In this moving, uplifting memoir, he recounts his journey to finding acceptance as a gay man. He recalls his upbringing in rural Michigan, where he knew he was different, where indeed he felt different from his father and brothers. He recounts his coming out and how he’s healed from revealing his secret to his family, friends, community, and the world. And he tells the story of meeting his boyfriend, whom he would marry and who would eventually become a major Democratic leader.

With unflinching honesty, unflappable courage, and great warmth, Chasten Buttigieg relays his experience of growing up in America and embracing his true self, while inspiring others to do the same.

In addition, Chasten Buttigieg will be recognized with San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus’s “Inspiration Award” for his work in arts education and bringing the struggles of LGBTQ+ youth to the forefront at Fall Showcase on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at 6 p.m. PT. Kicking off Season 43, this exciting autumnal concert celebrates SFGMC’s 42nd birthday and will feature a mix of past performances, vignettes, and ensemble pieces. Guests will also experience the world premiere of “What Will We Hear?,” written by composer- lyricist Andrew Lippa (“I Am Harvey Milk”) and performed by Tony Award winner Kristin Chenoweth. This piece was conceived by Lippa following a conversation at a virtual SFGMC donor event held this past April in which community members were expressing their concerns over the uncertainty of future performances. While access is free, a suggested donation ($25–$50) is encouraged for Fall Showcase . To RSVP, visit www.sfgmc.org/season-43/.

---

ABOUT CHASTEN BUTTIGIEG

Perhaps the most visible political campaign spouse in the last decade, Chasten Glezman Buttigieg has built a name of his own as an advocate for teachers, inclusion, and the arts. Born and raised in Traverse City, Michigan, he received his bachelor’s degree in theater and global studies from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and his master’s in education from DePaul University. Chasten most recently worked as a middle-school drama and humanities teacher before joining husband Pete on the 2020 Presidential campaign trail. In our country’s biggest cities and smallest towns, Americans were heartened by his charisma, empathy, and infectious positivity. Chasten currently lives in South Bend, Indiana, with Peter and their two rescue dogs.

ABOUT TONY BRAVO

Tony Bravo is the arts and culture reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle. Bravo joined the Style section in 2015 where he wrote the relationship column “Connectivity” and covered New York Fashion Week. His writing has appeared across the newspaper from the Datebook arts section to the Food, Cannabis and Sports section where he famously asked Warrior Draymond Green “Who are you wearing?” live on ESPN. In addition to arts and culture he specializes in stories about LGBTQ issues ranging from drag and the queer aesthetic to activism and representation. Bravo’s culture column appears in print every Monday in Datebook.

ABOUT JONI BINDER

Joni Binder is Director of the California Lieutenant Governor Arts Project, serves on the Board of Directors for Turnaround Arts California—a Los Angeles-based statewide effort co-founded by Frank Gehry and Malissa Shriver—and is on the Board of Directors of SFFILM. Joni formerly served as the Education Chair for the Fine Arts Committee for the Diplomatic Reception Rooms at the U.S. Department of State and as president of the Modern Art Council of San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Joni Binder is an author and photographer, publishing the bestselling book Mile 46: Face to Face in Maasailand in 2016.

ABOUT SFGMC

Founded in 1978, SFGMC sparked a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement after its first public performance at a vigil on the steps of City Hall following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. Since then SFGMC has been embedded in the fabric of San Francisco. It has soothed souls in pain, lifted spirits in triumph, and has remained a steadfast beacon of hope.

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig, SFGMC has established a heightened level of performance standards bringing renewed audience and choral industry acclaim. Recent touring schedules, recordings, and outreach programs have broadened its impact and reputation in the community while maintaining its signature blend of humor, personality and ground-breaking performances. In 2019, SFGMC acquired a historic facility that has become its permanent home for rehearsals and offices. The building also serves as the first-ever National LGBTQ Center for the Arts, a community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations.

---

For more information on SFGMC, visit www.sfgmc.org
Visit SFGMC TV: www.sfgmc.org/sfgmctv
SFGMC Archive contact: archive@sfgmc.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfgmc
Twitter: www.twitter.com/sfgmc
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sfgmc
YouTube: www.youtube.com/sfgmcvideo

SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS ANNOUNCES LINEUP FOR SEASON 43

THE ALL-VIRTUAL SEASON TO INCLUDE WEEKLY OFFERINGS ON SFGMC TV, AS WELL AS FOUR SEASONAL SHOWCASES PATRONS CAN ENJOY FROM THE COMFORT AND SAFETY OF THEIR OWN HOME

SAN FRANCISCO (September 21, 2020)—Today, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig and Executive Director Chris Verdugo announced the lineup for Season 43, an all-virtual season that will include weekly offerings on SFGMC TV, the recently-launched online platform, as well as four seasonal showcases—featuring world premieres, fan favorites, special guests, and more—patrons can enjoy from the comfort and safety of their own home. While access is free, a suggested donation ($25–$50) is encouraged for each showcase. To RSVP, visit www.sfgmc.org. Conductor’s Society memberships (starting at donations of $120 or more) are also available at sfgmc.org/conductors-society. Member benefits include exclusive virtual events and sponsorship opportunities.

“With so much uncertainty as to when we can gather safely again, we have decided the best solution for the immediate future is to present an all-virtual season,” says Verdugo. “We are grateful for patrons around the nation who continue to show their support for SFGMC during these difficult times, and look forward to sharing these three special concerts.”

“The pandemic has challenged us to apply our creativity to completely different media platforms,” added Seelig. “We have all learned new ways to communicate with each other. Season 43 capitalizes on all those wonderful new avenues. Formerly, our music was delivered from the stage to the audience. Now, it’s from our homes to yours. We look forward to seeing you there.”

The season kicks off with Fall Showcase (Saturday, October 17, 2020), an exciting autumnal concert celebrating SFGMC’s 42nd birthday. Featuring a mix of past performances, vignettes, and ensemble pieces, guests will also experience the world premiere of “What Will We Hear?,” written by composer- lyricist Andrew Lippa (“I Am Harvey Milk”) and performed by Tony Award winner Kristin Chenoweth. This piece was conceived by Lippa following a conversation at a virtual SFGMC donor event held this past April in which community members were expressing their concerns over the uncertainty of future performances. In addition, Chasten Buttigieg will be recognized with SFGMC’s “Inspiration Award” for his work in arts education and bringing the struggles of LGBTQ+ youth to the forefront.

Next, SFGMC rings in the holiday season with [At] Home for the Holidays (Saturday, December 19, 2020), featuring fan favorites that have made this concert one of San Francisco Bay Area’s annual signature treats! At this all-virtual concert, guests can expect plenty of upbeat, show-stopping numbers, stunningly beautiful choral pieces, and updated, modern takes on old favorites—all done with SFGMC’s trademark humor and flair. Haul out the holly and don your gay apparel for this not-to-be-missed holiday extravaganza!

SFGMC kicks off the new year with Love Cabaret (Saturday, February 13, 2021), a special Valentine’s concert featuring a colorful songbook that celebrates all things love performed by some of your favorite SFGMC soloists and ensembles.

Closing out the season, SFGMC will present Pride Showcase (Sunday, June 20, 2021), a special celebration in honor of LGBTQ+ Pride Month. Filled with gaiety of every sort, this concert will feature the usual flags, boas, drag, and rainbows, but will include so much more as SFGMC commemorates a season unlike any other. Get ready for Pride as only SFGMC can create it!

SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS PRESENTS ANNUAL BENEFIT: CRESCENDO: VOICES RISING, AN EVENING OF MUSIC AND ACTION

Monday, August 17 at 7P.M.

First-ever virtual event to honor Trailblazers award recipient Billy porter and Vanguard award recipient Ariadne Getty.

Evening to also include performance and presentations by Alex Newell, Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, SFGMC, and more!

SAN FRANCISCO (July 28, 2020)—Today, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) announced that the Chorus’s annual benefit, Crescendo, will take place virtually Monday, August 17 at 7 p.m. COVID-19 and social justice protests around the world have inspired SFGMC to usher in a new era of its signature Crescendo gala with Crescendo: Voices Rising. Centered around the joy of musical performance, Crescendo: Voices Rising will harken back to the origins story of the Chorus, amplify the voices of those who continue to be misrepresented and vulnerable today, and renew the Chorus’s vow to continue to rise to the occasion and be a beacon of light and amplification for those marginalized voices for the future. Emmy, Tony and Grammy Award-winning actor, singer, director, composer, and playwright Billy Porter will be honored with the Trailblazer Award and Activist and philanthropist Ariadne Getty will be honored with the Vanguard Award. The evening will also feature special performances and presentations from multi-talented actor and GRAMMY® nominated recording artist Alex Newell, Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, SFGMC, and more. The virtual event is free to attend, with registration available now at www.sfgmc.org/crescendo.

“SFGMC has a legacy of equal parts art and activism, music and mission.” said SFGMC Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig. “This year, SFGMC’s Crescendo: Voices Rising brings the elements together into one amazing virtual event. The evening will highlight diverse community voices and our shared march towards justice. We’ll sprinkle in our signature fun and joy you have come to expect from SFGMC.”

Adds SFGMC Executive Director Chris Verdugo: “As the protests around the murders of Ahmaud Aubery, George Floyd, and Breonna Taylor continue to propel the world to action, the Chorus has yet another monumental opportunity to amplify the voices of the vulnerable and underrepresented and help heal an ever increasingly divided world. During these difficult times, we all have a responsibility to contribute what we can towards a more equitable, safe, and loving society. Join us on August 17 as we lift our voices in song and action.”

Billy Porter is an award-winning actor, singer, director, composer, and playwright. He most recently won the Emmy Award for Lead Actor for his appearance in FX’s Emmy- and Golden Globe-nominated drama “Pose.” A Hollywood Walk of Fame inductee, Porter has numerous theatre credits, including the role of Lola in the Broadway musical “Kinky Boots,” which he originated in 2013 and for which he won the Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle awards, as well as the Grammy for best musical-theatre album. Recently, Porter appeared in the second season of CBS All Access’ “The Twilight Zone”, and “American Horror Story: Apocalypse”. He can next be seen in the third season of FX’s “Pose”, voicing Audrey II in Greg Berlanti’s remake of “Little Shop of Horrors,” as well as the highly anticipated “Cinderella” remake in 2021. Porter’s most recent single “Finally Ready” was released in June 2020; he also released his single “For What It’s Worth” in April to motivate potential votes. SFGMC is thrilled to honor Mr. Porter for his boldness in bringing issues of sexuality, race, and gender to the forefront through his work as an artist and activist.

Ariadne Getty, a leading proponent of LGBTQ equality in the US and around the world, is President and Executive Director of the Ariadne Getty Foundation, which champions LGBTQ causes on an international scale. Last year, Variety named her Philanthropist of the Year, due in part to her transformative work with GLAAD, as well as her fearless leadership advocating for LGBTQ rights at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, over the last three years. For the last six years, Ari has worked closely with the Los Angeles LGBT Center in their massive campus expansion to provide an important resource center for LGBTQ youth and critical affordable housing for LGBTQ senior citizens. She has been instrumental in the development of two key buildings—The Ariadne Getty Foundation Youth Academy—which opened in April 2019, and opening in November 2020 is The Ariadne Getty Foundation Senior Center. She is an ally in the truest sense and SFGMC is honored to recognize her.

Funds raised at this year’s gala will sustain SFGMC and support its youth outreach programs. The event will also include an announcement of SFGMC’s Season 43 programming.

Crescendo: Voices Rising partners include AT&T, Zendesk, United Airlines, and Chansell Capital Properties, Inc., Joe Czuberki, Mikkel Svane, The Ariadne Getty Foundation, and Rebecca + Cal Henderson.

About SFGMC
Founded in 1978, SFGMC sparked a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement after its first public performance at a vigil on the steps of City Hall following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. Since then SFGMC has been embedded in the fabric of San Francisco. It has soothed souls in pain, lifted spirits in triumph, and has remained a steadfast beacon of hope.

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig, SFGMC has established a heightened level of performance standards bringing renewed audience and choral industry acclaim. Recent touring schedules, recordings, and outreach programs have broadened its impact and reputation in the community while maintaining its signature blend of humor, personality and ground-breaking performances. In 2019, SFGMC acquired a historic facility that has become its permanent home for rehearsals and offices. The building also serves as the first-ever National LGBTQ Center for the Arts, a community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations.

For more information on SFGMC, visit www.sfgmc.org
SFGMC Archive contact: archive@sfgmc.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfgmc
Twitter: www.twitter.com/sfgmc
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sfgmc
YouTube: www.youtube.com/sfgmcvideo