I can still remember the excitement of seeing one of the first shows of our local
Grand Rapids Women’s Chorus when they debuted on stage downtown. And here’s the thing, 20 years later they are still inspiring audiences both here and around the world.
Sure, they are our own, but over their 20 years they have been able to showcase voices from others who have joined them on stage from far off lands, as well as invited to perform outside our region.
For their 20th anniversary showcase performance at the East Grand Rapids Performing Arts Center they are embracing a music program organized around the themes contained within the title of Passion.Purpose.Song.
Our 60voice chorus, under the musical direction of Lori Tennenhouse, GRWC’s Artistic Director, along with contributions from Assistant Director Brenda Baker, will be accompanied by pianist Phil Pletcher, as well a host of special surprise musical guests on this special occasion.
Over the years the chorus has even commissioned new works of music to be created and debuted on our stage. This year’s 10th piece is “Colors” and is composed by Marjan Helms and inspired by a poem by Susan Windle.
“When we approached Helms, we wanted a work that would evoke our feeling of connection with each other as singers,” says Tennenhouse. “As I looked back over programs and rosters (of vocalists/musicians), I was amazed by how many people I felt connected with -- and how much passion and excitement we have given each project.”
According to Tennenhouse, Windle’s poem reflects the idea of growing and learning together with a memorable text of how “we come into our colors in our own time -- we celebrate the company of others -- the meal we make together far surpasses what we do alone." Helms lovingly wraps around this text a wonderfully textured piece of music, thus providing a context and a meaning that lifts up the powerful message of “Colors.”
As an added bonus the GRWC will welcome alumnae on stage for a rousing wrap-up that includes a 20-year retrospective slideshow.
Admission: $20 ($15 for students)