The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood and The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort presents
with Artistic Director GABE SALAZAR
Sponsored by Amazon, Cleveland Clinic Florida, CAN Community Health, Midland, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka
December 13, 2024, 8:00 pm
Sunshine Cathedral
December 17, 2024, 8:00 pm
Hard Rock Live with TODRICK HALL
Performances by TROPICAL WAVE and the AVN DANCE COMPANY
GUEST CONDUCTOR
Hard Rock Live Guest Conductor: Paul Rolli, Wilton Manors City Commissioner
PRODUCTION
Anthony Cabrera – Assistant Conductor & Tropical Wave Conductor
James Smith – Production Director
Darren Matias – Principal Accompanist
Robert Billington – Flute 1
Hoon Chang – Oboe
Bruce Anderson – Costumes & Wardrobe
Kevin Smith – Costumes & Wardrobe
Marcus Saitschenko - Assistant Production Director
Tom Michalak – Production Assistant
ORCHESTRA
Laura Gonzalez – Violin 2
Jerome McCoy – Violin 2
Christine Pascual-Fernande – Clarinet
Luis Carlos Pulido Orjuela – Trumpet 1
Juan Guillermo – Trumpet 2
Joseph Herring – F Horn 1
Matt Marshall – F Horn 2
Vyara Hristova – Violin 1
Sol Ochoa – Violin 1
Samuel Diosono – Viola
Jon Cruz – Cello
Julian Raugh – Double Bass
Felipe Diaz – Percussion
Teresa Flores – Drums
Roberto Borbone – Electric Guitar
THANK YOU
Seminole Hard Rock: Susan Rennesein, Vice President of Community Affairs and Special Events; Erick Eldridge, Director of Special Events; Brett Annis, Director of Ticket Operations; Teresa Shum, Director of Marketing and Public Relations. Audrey LaCatis, Brian Gauci, ASL Interpreter; Sunshine Cathedral: Bishop Durrell Watkins, Bishop Robert Griffin, and Kurt Litzenberger, Facilities Manager.
Book developed and produced through generous support from:
Note: Audio, video recording, and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.
GABE SALAZAR
Embracing the Holiday Spirit Through Song
What a joy it is to welcome you to our Holiday concerts as we kick off our 15th season as a chorus! Your support, encouragement, and presence have been instrumental in our journey, and we cannot express enough gratitude for your part in our success.
Music has an extraordinary ability to center us in a world that often feels uncertain and hurried. It bridges divides, soothes the soul, and reminds us of our shared humanity. This evening, we invite you to pause, breathe, and let the power of song provide a moment of tranquility and unity. The chorus has worked so hard these last few months that we can all share in the magic of music.
Tonight’s concert features beloved holiday classics such as “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” blended with fresh, exciting pieces such as “Ripple” from the movie “Spirited, which we hope will both delight and inspire. We’ve crafted this performance with care, knowing how deeply music can resonate, particularly during the holiday season.
Thank you for being part of our story. We wish you joy, peace, and success in all you do. Now, sit back, relax, and let the music take you on a journey of beauty and hope.
With heartfelt appreciation,
GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA (GMCSF)
GMCSF is a vibrant community of singers, uniting diverse voices across generations and cultures with a shared commitment to shaping a brighter future for all. Beyond the artistry of music, the Chorus emerges as a formidable force dedicated to transcending social barriers while visibly and powerfully advocating for the LGBTQ+ community. Being a part of the Chorus is more than simply singing; it’s a profound expression of LGBTQ+ identity. The members become living embodiments of positivity, serving as role models for the younger generation, actively contributing to the community, and helping those in need.
GMCSF’s impact resonates far and wide as it brings live music to the region through grand-scale concerts in prestigious venues, far-reaching community engagements, and meaningful volunteer initiatives. Boasting over 180 talented singing members, GMCSF proudly stands as one of the top, award-winning LGBTQ+ nonprofit arts organizations in the State of Florida, the largest gay men’s chorus in the southeastern United States, and one of the nation’s top ten LGBTQ+ choruses. Led by Artistic Director Gabe Salazar, the Chorus’s performances captivate more than 30,000 individuals each year, solidifying its position as a vital cultural asset in the heart of South Florida. GMCSF reached a significant milestone in December 2016 when we collaborated with SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO HOLLYWOOD to perform our holiday concert at Hard Rock Live! The two entities have continued this partnership, which is now in its seventh year. Prior guest artists have included Linda Eder, Alan Cumming, Matthew Morrison, Jordin Sparks, Shoshana Bean, and most recently, Amber Riley.
MISSION & VISION:
We sing so that LGBTQ+ people can live their truth through quality music experiences that inspire audiences, open minds, change hearts, and affirm our common humanity. Our vision is a diverse world united.
GMCSF DANCERS
ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS
We
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR | Paul
SET DESIGN | Phil Cordell
TENOR
Sandy Allen Matthew Almeida
Samantha Alvarez
Christian Andaya Bruce Anderson
Reynaldo Araque David Baier
Derek Barbara Robert Beaulieu Aaron Bell
Andrew Bendik Jorge A Bernal-Geschier
Miguel Bernard-Rivera
Luke Bertaux
Rex Beyer
Nate Bisco
Mark Blackburn
Fernando Brierley
Renato Brito
John Burch
Bradley Bush
John Chaffin
Bert Cohen
Antonio Corrente Matthew Craig
Doug Cureton Craig Dannenbrink Edmound Davis Don Dennis David Dincher
Nick Dryfuse Jeannine Everett
Doug Ferguson
Felix Fidelibus John Figueras
Steven Freeman Richard Fulks Wyatt Gaff
Gerald Garcia Walter Gardner
Jeff Goodwin Mark Gracy
Rafael Gragert
Joanna Grandel-Everett
David Gray
Paul Guariglia Michael Halpner
Elan Harari Jason Hardie Jay Hartford
Rick Heal Donny Hill
Dean Hitsos David Hopper Jim Houser
Faris Hu John Ingino
Jeffrey Jackson
John Jackson Fred Johnson
Gregory Johnson Justin Johnson
Ronnie Jones Jr. Ryan Knepp
Herb Knowles
Peter Konrath Aaron Lauer
Douglas Leader John Lewis Kenny Lewis-Montoya
David R. Littlefield Aaron Lockley Leo Luberecki
Colin Ludlow Tom Ludwiczak
Brian Lundy James Mallon
Ginny McCulloh Waylon McInturff Alan McKnight
Patrick McLendon Scott Messenger
Tony Minella
Alberto Minjarez Terry Moore
Adam Neal Edward Niese
Adrian Novello
Joshua Oberfoell Jorge Ornelas Jr.
Nick Orr David-Mark Parsons
Clayton Paterson
Steven Patterson
Michael Ping
Eduardo Pinto Carter Poust
Scott Raven Clive Ray Curtis Robertson
Not Pictured
Charlie Alguera, Edwin Cruz, Justin Robbins, Elijah Roe, Andrew Serkin
Geraldo Rodriguez Raymond Rodriguez
Marcus Saitschenko
Cristopher Santos Jose Santos
Jonathan Sanz Jeff Sigler Brent Simmons
Donald Small Kevin Smith
Bill Spinosa
Dennis St. Jean
Don Tomasello
Carlos Torres Johann Torres
Titus Tucker
David Van Cleaf
Kely Van Eaton
Jem Walker Jason Weston
Aubrey Williams
Paul Williams
Tim Yarbrough Q. Yepez
Rob Young
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ACT ONE
It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Words & Music by: Eddie Polo & George Wyle | Arr. by David T. Clydesdale Soloist #1: Jorge A Bernal-Geschier Soloist #2: Michael Halpner Soloist #3: Doug Ferguson
Dedicated to our brother Michael - Paul Rolli and Bennett Quade
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Words & Music by: Charles Wesley and Felix Medelsshohn | Arr. by Dan Forrest
Sponsored by Bruce Anderson
Go Said the Star
Words by Gary Parsons Lathrop | Music by Ryan Main Sponsored by James Mallon
Cradle Hymn Gaudete!
Words by Isaac Watts | Music by Kim Andre Arnesen For love and peace. – Tony Minella
Piae Cantiones. 1852 | Arranged by Michael Engelhardt Performed by TROPICAL WAVE
Sponsored by members of Tropical Wave, in honor of Anthony Cabrera, Darren Matias, and Gabe Salazar, who give us reasons to REJOICE with every rehearsal and performance.
Amezaliwa Tushangilie!
Words & Music by | Robert Jim Begisen Soloist: Adam Neal
Sponsored by Todd Masnicki and Michael Gutierrez
Sing We Now of Christmas
Traditional French Carol | Arranged by Kyle Pederson I dedicate this song to the two people I love the most, my mother Karen and my husband Ray. Merry Christmas! -Bradley Bush
The
Man with a Bag
Music & Words by Irving Taylor, Dudley Brooks, and Harold Stanley | Arr. by David Maddux
Dedicated to my soon-to-be Commercial Pilot, Go and fly to the stars, Honey!!-Mark Blackburn
INTERMISSION
ACT TWO
Our Favorite One
Words & Music by Cy Coleman
Featuring the GMCSF Dancers
Love will prevail! – Mayor Judy Paul
Angels from the Realms of Glory
Words by James Montgomery | Music by Henry T. Smart | Arranged by Dan Forrest I missed singing with you in this concert – Mike Pellicone
See Amid the Winter’s Snow Ripple
Words by Edward Caswall | Music by John Goss | Arranged by Dan Forrest
In honor of Mother Judy – Bill Spinosa
Music & Words by Benj Pasek & Justin Paul | Arr. by David Maddux
Live, Laugh, & Love to all humanity a blessed Christmas – Jorge Ornelas
Joy to The World
Traditional Carol | Arranged by Adam Pod
Performed by TROPICAL WAVE
Dear Emily, Matthew, and Zachary, watching you grow into amazing adults fills me with joy and pride. It’s been a privilege and an honor being your father. Love, Daddy (Steven Freeman)
Winters Song
Words and Music by Sara Bareilles & Ingrid Michaelson | Arr. by Ash
Sponsored by David Hopper in memory of Michel Carnec and Sean Sekich’
John 14:27 | Arr. by Dan Forrest
Featuring the ANV Dancers
Our wish for all peoples of the world from John Lewis and Dr. Louis Hemmerich
Someone’s Got to Send Out Love
Words & Music by David Maddux
To the love of my life for the last 40 years, Jack Killen – Fred Boykin
ACT ONE
It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Words & Music by: Eddie Polo & George Wyle | Arr. by David T. Clydesdale Soloist #1: Jorge A Bernal-Geschier Soloist #2: Michael Halpner Soloist #3: Doug Ferguson Dedicated to our brother Michael - Paul Rolli and Bennett Quade
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Words & Music by: Charles Wesley and Felix Medelsshohn | Arr. by Dan Forrest Sponsored by Bruce Anderson
Go Said the Star
Words by Gary Parsons Lathrop | Music by Ryan Main Sponsored by James Mallon
Broadway Medley
Arranged by David Maddux | Performed by TODRICK HALL
Cradle Hymn
Words by Isaac Watts | Music by Kim Andre Arnesen For love and peace. – Tony Minella
Gaudete!
Piae Cantiones. 1852 | Arranged by Michael Engelhardt | Performed by TROPICAL WAVE Sponsored by members of Tropical Wave, in honor of Anthony Cabrera, Darren Matias, and Gabe Salazar, who give us reasons to REJOICE with every rehearsal and performance.
Amezaliwa Tushangilie!
Words & Music by | Robert Jim Begisen | Soloist: Adam Neal Sponsored by Todd Masnicki and Michael Gutierrez
It’s Warm Outside
Words & Music by Todrick Hall Performed by TODRICK HALL and the ANV Dancers
Sing We Now of Christmas
Traditional French Carol | Arranged by Kyle Pederson I dedicate this song to the two people I love the most, my mother Karen and my husband Ray. Merry Christmas! -Bradley Bush
The Man with a Bag
Music & Words by Irving Taylor, Dudley Brooks, and Harold Stanley | Arr. by David Maddux Dedicated to my soon-to-be Commercial Pilot, Go and fly to the stars, Honey!!-Mark Blackburn
INTERMISSION
ACT TWO
Our Favorite One
Words & Music by Cy Coleman | Featuring the GMCSF Dancers
Love will prevail! – Mayor Judy Paul
Angels from the Realms of Glory
Words by James Montgomery | Music by Henry T. Smart | Arranged by Dan Forrest I missed singing with you in this concert – Mike Pellicone
See Amid the Winter’s Snow Ripple
Words by Edward Caswall | Music by John Goss | Arranged by Dan Forrest In honor of Mother Judy – Bill Spinosa
Music & Words by Benj Pasek & Justin Paul | Arr. by David Maddux
Live, Laugh, & Love to all humanity a blessed Christmas – Jorge Ornelas
Bells, Bows, Gifts, Trees
Words & Music by Carl McGrier, Todrick Hall, Jean Yves G. Ducornet, and Kofi Owusu Arr. by David Maddux | with TODRICK HALL and the ANV Dancers
Sponsored by Michael Foley and Tommy Zhang
Joy to The World
Traditional Carol | Arranged by Adam Pod | Performed by TROPICAL WAVE
Dear Emily, Matthew, and Zachary, watching you grow into amazing adults fills me with joy and pride. It’s been a privilege and an honor being your father. Love, Daddy (Steven Freeman)
Winters
Words and Music by Sara Bareilles & Ingrid Michaelson | Arr. by Ash Sponsored by David Hopper in memory of Michel Carnec and Sean Sekich’
Song Shalom
John 14:27 | Arr. by Dan Forrest | Featuring the ANV Dancers
Our wish for all peoples of the world from John Lewis and Dr. Louis Hemmerich
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
Words & Music Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane | Arr. Mark Hayes
Soloist: TODRICK HALL
For Mom, who loved Christmas more than any other time of year.
Sponsored by Michael Ping & Brad Winnie
Someone’s Got to Send Out Love
Words & Music by David Maddux
To the love of my life for the last 40 years, Jack Killen – Fred Boykin
Amezaliwa Tushangilie – Amezaliwa Tushangilie is a Kiswahili Christian hymn. Kiswahili, often referred to as Swahili, is a Bantu language spoken primarily in East Africa. It is the national language of Kenya, where Robert Jim Begisen, the arranger of this piece, was born in 1966. Begisen is a noted choir director, conductor, and composer. The song is often sung during Christmas services and celebrations in African churches. The title translates to “He is Born, Let Us Rejoice,” and its lyrics express joy and gratitude for the birth of Jesus. The melody and rhythm contribute to a festive, uplifting atmosphere consistent with the theme of celebration and joy. Like many traditional and religious songs in the region, Amezaliwa Tushangilie may have been passed down through generations, becoming part of communal worship without a clear attribution to a single composer.
Angels From the Realms of Glory –This carol, with an arrangement by Dan Forrest, celebrates the announcement of Christ’s birth. The song was originally written by James Montgomery in 1816. With over 400 hymns attributed to his name, Montgomery is considered by many musical scholars to be the equal of other famous church music composers, including Isaac Watts (Joy to the World ) and Charles Wesley (Hark! The Herald Angels Sing). This is Montgomery’s most famous hymn. The original text has been set to various melodies. The melody you are hearing tonight is entitled Regent Square and was composed by Henry Smart in 1867. In the United Kingdom, Montgomery’s hymn is more often sung to the melody we associate with Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. At tonight’s concert, you will also hear Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, with another inspiring arrangement by Dan Forrest. Bells, Bows, Gifts, Trees – Bells, Bows, Gifts, Trees is a buoyant holiday version of Todrick Hall’s popular hit Nails, Hair, Hips, Heels. The original song is a high-energy, upbeat anthem celebrating confidence, self-expression, and empowerment. The lyrics reference popular elements of LGBTQ+ culture, celebrating individuality and pride; and encouraging people to embrace their individual uniqueness and personality. Bells, Bows, Gifts, Trees is a bubbly remix of the original. Hall rewrote the song to give the original recording a festive holiday twist. The playful song highlights the season’s fun and cheer, with lyrics like “Rum-pa-pa-pum, get an ugly sweater. Sugar plum, plum, this is Yuletide weather.”
Cradle Hymn – Cradle Hymn is a particularly beautiful and stirring Christmas hymn, composed in 2010 by contemporary Norwegian composer Kim André Arnesen. He is known for his warm and lyrical choral and orchestral compositions. His works reflect both classical and modern influences. This piece has become one of Arnesen’s most noted works. The original text was written by Isaac Watts, a most prominent hymn writer of the 18th century. He is credited for writing over seven hundred hymns during his lifetime. Cradle Hymn is a lullaby reflecting on the nativity and the peace and quiet of Christ’s infancy. The imagery of a mother singing to her child is calm and serene, reflecting the desire for peace in a world that is often in turmoil. Arnesen’s music is frequently performed by choirs worldwide. In 2019, GMCSF performed Requiem, another one of Arnesen’s famous compositions.
Go, Said the Star– Go, Said the Star, a contemporary choral piece composed by Ryan Main, conveys the deeper meaning of Christmas through song. It is a reflective, poignant piece that explores the theme of nativity, specifically the guiding role of the Star of Bethlehem in leading the Wise Men to the newborn Christ child. The lyrics focus on the voice of the star, symbolizing the divine guidance given to the Wise Men. The star instructs and encourages the Wise Men to follow it to witness the miracle of Christ’s birth. The recurring phrase “Go” emphasizes this sense of urgency and divine calling. The piece’s overall message is of wonder, mystery, and spiritual reflection, fitting for religious and non-religious holiday concerts.
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing – Hark! The Herald Angels Sing is one of the most well-known Christmas carols associated with the holiday season. The carol celebrates the birth of Christ, focusing on the angels’ announcement to the shepherds of Jesus’ arrival. The original words to this carol were written in 1739 by Charles Wesley, one of the founders of the Methodist Church. His version was quite different from what we sing today. Approximately one hundred years later, the well-known composer Felix Mendelssohn composed a cantata to commemorate Gutenberg’s invention of the printing press. English musician William H. Cummings adapted Mendelssohn’s music to fit Wesley’s lyrics. Arranger Dan Forrest gives Mendelssohn’s tune a beautiful and powerful version of this traditional carol. Forrest blends the traditional hymnal melody with contemporary classical techniques, giving
this carol a fresh, modern feel. GMCSF has sung several of Forrest’s other arrangements of popular carols, including The First Noel, O Come, All Ye Faithful, Silent Night, and O Little Town of Bethlehem
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas –This popular Christmas song was written by Hugh Martin (lyrics) and Ralph Blane (music) for the 1944 MGM film, “Meet Me in St. Louis.” In the movie, Judy Garland’s character sings the song to her little sister to cheer her up when the family finds they will be moving from St. Louis because of their father’s job promotion. The original lyrics were thought to be depressing, so Martin changed the lyrics to make the song a bit more upbeat. One line was changed from “It may be your last/ Next year we may all be living in the past” to “Let your heart be light/ Next year all our troubles will be out of sight.” Frank Sinatra also had a problem with the lyrics when he recorded the song in 1957, stating that the song needed to be made more “jolly.” At Sinatra’s request, Martin changed the line “Until then, we’ll have to muddle through somehow.” to “Hang a shining star upon the highest bough.” Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas has been recorded by many other artists, including Ella Fitzgerald, Whitney Houston, Carrie Underwood, Christina Aguilera, Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, and John Legend. The recordings by Frank Sinatra and Michael Bublé are ranked Nos. 47 and 48, respectively, on Billboard’s Greatest 100 Holiday Songs of All Time.
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year–Edward Pola and George Wyle wrote this now-famous Christmas song for the 1963 Christmas episode of the “Andy Williams Show,” a popular TV series of the 1960s and early 1970s. The song became popular because of its lively and cheerful melody and lyrics. The song also was released on Williams’ first Christmas album. The original broadcast was wellreceived, and the song was included in all of Andy Williams’ holiday specials, which continued even after his variety show ended in 1971. Although Williams recorded many other versions of the song during his lifetime, the original 1963 rendition has remained the most popular. In fact, it is ranked No. 7 on Billboard’s Greatest 100 Holiday Songs of All Time!
Our Favorite One –This fan-favorite chorus number was originally part of the score of the 1991 hit Broadway musical “The Will Rogers Follies,” based on the life of the famous American humorist. The musical won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Original Score, Best Direction of a Musical, and Best Choreography, which we borrowed extensively for our production! The song, with music by Cy Coleman and lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green, originally was entitled Our Favorite Son, referring to Will Rogers himself, played on stage by Keith Carradine. The lyrics have a holiday theme in this rendition, honoring “our favorite one,” Santa Claus himself! Other choruses have performed this holiday treat nationwide, including the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington D.C., the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus, and the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. GMCSF has performed this song twice before. Because of popular demand, we are reprising the number tonight for your viewing enjoyment!
Ripple –A song from the movie musical “Spirited,” which debuted on Apple TV+ during the 2022 holiday season. “Spirited” is a modern version of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” The movie, which stars Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell, has a score written by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. The talented duo has written music and lyrics for several notable shows, including “Smash,” “The Greatest Showman,” and “Dear Evan Hansen.” They also wrote the lyrics for the popular film “La La Land,” for which they won an Academy Award for the song City of Stars Ripple conveys a profound and insightful message, illustrating how a person’s actions and choices, no matter how small, can have a strong impact on the world around us, similar to the ripples created when a pebble is thrown into a pond. This idea underlines the overall themes of “Spirited,” which focuses on love, redemption, and the spirit of giving during the holiday season.
See, Amid the Winter’s Snow –The lyrics for the carol See Amid the Winter’s Snow were written by Edward Caswall in 1858. Caswall was a priest known for his religious poetry and hymn translations. This hymn, also known as “Hymn for Christmas Day,” was later set to music by Sir John Goss, a composer and organist who worked at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. Goss’s tune, called “Humility,” became associated with Caswall’s lyrics over ten years later in 1871. This carol celebrates the Nativity and the joy of Christ’s birth. The lyrics illustrate the scene of winter snow set against the warmth and light brought into the world by Jesus. The carol reflects the themes of peace, hope, and divine love. Dan
Forrest’s arrangement of this piece is a warm and modern interpretation that provides beautiful harmonies that enhance the original composition.
Shalom –The word “Shalom” is the Hebrew word for “peace.” It is a common greeting in Jewish culture to say hello or goodbye. The lyrics of Dan Forrest’s composition come from the New Testament. In John 14:27, Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” The message emphasizes peace that transcends worldly troubles, conveying hope and comfort. This arrangement is a beautiful composition that combines elements of Jewish themes with contemporary choral writing. Because of its universal message of peace, Shalom has gained popularity among choirs during the holiday season and throughout the year.
Sing We Now of Christmas –This timeless song is a traditional French carol (Noël Nouvelet), dating back to the 16th century. The song is a celebration of the birth of Jesus. The song is performed by choirs as a festive and cheerful piece during the holiday season. Kyle Pederson, the arranger of this version of the famous carol, wished to “create a different aural experience for the listener.” He has crafted a piece with tempos and harmonies that “create a sense of yearning…and of anticipation.” This carol has been recorded by numerous groups throughout the United States, including the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, the Roger Wagner Chorale, the King’s Singers, Pentatonix, the Turtle Creek Chorale, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington D.C., and the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles.
Someone’s Got to Send Out Love —David Maddux’s upbeat pop anthem emphasizes love, connection, and community themes. The lyrics encourage individuals to take the initiative to express love and compassion, highlighting the transformative power of these actions. The lyrics often reflect that love is essential for building connections between people and fostering a sense of community. Tonight, as audience members, you will hear other songs arranged by Mr. Maddux, including Ripple and The Man With the Bag.
The Man with the Bag/Up on the Housetop –This lively and infectious medley was cleverly arranged by David Maddux. The song begins with The Man with the Bag and segues seamlessly into Up on the Housetop. Both songs focus on the excitement and joy associated with the arrival of Santa Claus and the merriment and joy he brings at Christmas time. The Man with the Bag was written by Irving Taylor, Dudley Brooks, and Hal Stanley. The song captures the fun and whimsical nature of the holiday season. The Man with the Bag features a catchy, jazzy melody with lively rhythms. It remains a favorite among children and adults alike. The song was originally recorded in 1950 by Kay Starr, a popular singer of the ‘40s and ‘50s. Since then, the song has been recorded by many other notable recording artists, including Diana Krall, Seth MacFarlane, Jane Monheit, and Lee Ann Womack. Darren Criss and Adam Lambert even recorded a duet of the song in 2021.
Up on the Housetop –Another Christmas classic, Up on the Housetop, was written in 1864 (believe it or not!) by Benjamin Russell Hanby, a composer and pastor. He wrote over 80 songs in his day but is best known for this classic tune. Hanby, an advocate for the abolition of slavery, wrote songs with themes focusing on freedom, love, and religion. It is not surprising that Up on the Housetop has remained a holiday favorite for more than a century because of its cheerful and upbeat melody and lyrics. The song has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows. The song has been recorded by many recording artists, including Straight No Chaser, Kimberley Locke, Reba McEntire, the Jackson 5, and Jimmy Buffett, to name a few.
Winter Song – Winter Song is a beautiful holiday ballad written and recorded by Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson. The lyrics express the desire for connection, comfort, and warmth that love brings during the cold winter months. Bareilles and Michaelson are both singer-songwriters who have performed on stage together. Winter Song is their most notable songwriting collaboration. In addition to having a prominent singing career, Michaelson’s compositions have been featured on TV in shows such as “Grey’s Anatomy.” Her hit single, The Way I Am, also was featured in an Old Navy TV commercial. Sara Bareilles has had several hit singles, beginning with Love Song in 2007. Not only did she write the music and lyrics for the Tony-nominated “Waitress,” she assumed the lead role to critical acclaim on Broadway. Winter Song has also been recorded by Garth Brooks, Kacey Musgraves, Chris Mann, and Leslie Odom Jr.
MARK B. KENT
On behalf of the entire Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida family, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to you for being here with us this evening as we kick off our fabulous 15th season. There is no question that we would not have reached this milestone without you. Your generous support is essential in making our mission of inclusivity, empowerment, and artistic expression possible. As we gather for this special holiday concert, we are reminded of your contributions’ profound impact on our chorus members and our community. Because of supporters like you, we can continue creating spaces where every voice is heard, celebrated, and cherished.
We are so pleased to share this joyous occasion with you and hope tonight’s performance brings warmth and inspiration to your heart. Whether you are attending for the first time or have been with us for years, know that your presence here means the world to us. This holiday season, we celebrate the music and the beautiful connections we have with people like you, who help make our work possible.
It is the end of the calendar year, and we hope you remember us in your giving. The community needs our voices and your contribution to continue our work. Together, we can make a big difference. You can find information on giving by scanning the QR code on this page or emailing our wonderful Development Manager, Fidel Garcia, at fgarcia@gmcsf.org
Thank you for being part of our chorus family. We are grateful for your continued support and wish you a wonderful, peaceful holiday season.
Warmly,
Mark B. Kent Executive Director
OUR ORGANIZATION
Clayton Paterson
Steven Patterson
Scott Raven
Marcus Saitschenko
Jose Santos
Andrew Serkin
Donald Small
Don Tomasello
Carlos Torres
Aubrey Williams
Tim Yarbrough
Rob Young
Non-Singing
Bob Artale
Cary Giacalone
Larry Small
Ansel Thompson
Michael Valdez
ARTISTIC TEAM
Artistic Director
Gabe Salazar
Assistant Conductor/ Tropical Wave Conductor
Anthony Cabrera
Production Director
James Smith
Principal Accompanist
Darren Matias
Accompanists
Kevin Combs
Edwin Neimann
Costumes & Wardrobe
Bruce Anderson
Joseph Fletcher
Kevin Smith
Assistant Production Director
Marcus Saitschenko
Production Assistant
Tom Michalak
ADMINISTRATIVE
Executive Director
Mark B. Kent
Director of Marketing & Sponsorship
Edward Otto Zielke
Development Manager
Fidel Garcia
Office Manager & Bookkeeper
Doug Leib
Office Volunteer
Howard M. Yopp Jr.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Board Chair
Fred Boykin
Board Vice-Chair
Kerry Waldee
Secretary
Ronni Arden
Treasurer
Michael Foley
Directors
Bradley Bush
Erick Eldridge
Dr. William E. Gannon, Jr.
Glen Jack
Johnnie Mejia
Tom Nichols
Judy Paul
Paul Rolli
Bill Spinosa
Chorus President
Jonathan Sanz
Chorus Representative
Dennis St. Jean
LEADERSHIP TEAM
President
Jonathan Sanz
Vice President
Michael Ping
Secretary
Marcus Saitschenko
As of November 22, 2024
Treasurer
Michael Foley
VP of Community Relations
Douglas Leader
VP of Equity, Access & Belonging
John Lewis
VP of Membership
Bill Spinosa
Section Administrators
Reynaldo Araque, Tenor 1
Kenny Lewis, Tenor 2
Craig Dannenbrink, Baritone
Felix Fidelibus, Bass
Ginny McCulloh, Tropical Wave
Risk Assessment Advisor
Dr. Jack Killen
Librarian
Larry Small
Volunteer Coordinator
Kris Jarmann
One Voice Newsletter
David Gray, Editor
Miguel Bernard-Rivera
Proofreaders
John Burch
John Chaffin
Larry Small
HONORARY ADVISORY COUNCIL
Committee Chair
Harvey Shapiro
Members
Fred Boykin
Don Croxton
Mike Dager
Dino Georgiou
Gary Hoffman
Gerry Kennedy
John Olson
Bob Pagano
Joe Pallant
Don Tomasello
Rick Vaughan
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ARTISTIC TEAM
ADMINISTRATION
HONORARY ADVISORY COUNCIL
Council Chair: Harvey Shapiro
Members: Fred Boykin, Don Croxton, Mike Dager, Dino Georgiou, Gary Hoffman
Gerry Kennedy, John Olson, Bob Pagano, Joe Pallant, Don Tomasello, Rick Vaughan
Gabe Salazar
Glen Jack Johnnie Mejia
Paul Rolli
Fred Boykin
Judy Paul
Bill Spinosa
Kerry Waldee
Anthony Cabrera
Erick Eldridge Dr. William E. Gannon, Jr.
Jonathan Sanz
Ronni Arden
Dennis St. Jean
Michael Foley Bradley Bush
James Smith
Tom Nichols
Mark B. Kent
Edward Otto Zielke
Fidel Garcia
Doug Leib
Howard Yopp
GMCSF Supporters Dazzled and Sparkled All Night
At The Chic & Unique Ball: Crystal Opulence Unleashed, there were rhinestones, glittering gowns, and shiny accessories galore. Our fans and supporters turned out in force, and they all looked stunning!
On Saturday, November 2, The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach hosted this spectacular evening, the 2024 gala for the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida. Nearly 400 guests packed the ballroom, reveling in the stunning décor provided by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. Silent and live auctions were robust, and guests generously donated so that the Chorus could sustain its work to inspire audiences, open minds, and change hearts.
The Chic & Unique Ball takes place each year on the first Saturday of November. This year’s gala raised over $150,000 to support the Chorus’s operations, outreach, and scholarship programs.
We extend a special thank you to the following who sponsored the event: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort
Brand g Vacations
Impact Encounters
Holy Cross Health
Whitney Dutton
Rosie’s Bar & Grill
Tito’s Handmade Vodka
VIRTUOSI
Our treasured Virtuosi are truly the consummate artists in philanthropy and generosity. Their support substantially sustains the Chorus and helps build our future.
Impresario $60,000+
This is a unique opportunity for our most dedicated donors to make a multiyear commitment to supporting the continued harmony of voices.
*Maestro-level benefits plus photo recognition in each mainstage concert program.
Maestros ($20,000+)
All benefits below, PLUS: Photo and biography in program once each season
Invitation to sit with the Chorus during a rehearsal Customized naming opportunity for the season
Composers ($10,000 - $19,999)
All benefits below, PLUS:
Private dinner with GMCSF’s Artistic Director and Executive Director
Name announced at concerts
Featured donor e-blast at least once each season Invitation to the Chorus’s end-of-year dinner
Divas ($5,000 - $9,999)
All benefits below, PLUS: Name announced at concerts Invitation to a rehearsal and wine reception
Producers ($2,500 - $4,999)
All benefits below, PLUS: Concierge ticketing service
VIP parking at Sunshine Cathedral concerts
Invitations to exclusive Virtuosi receptions and events
CONDUCTOR’S CIRCLE
The Conductor’s Circle is a passionate community of supporters who generously invest in our season, enabling us to spread our messages of love and inclusion through song.
Benefactors ($1,500 - $2,499) Friends and Supporters benefits, PLUS: Invitation to select donor events
Supporters ($500 - $1,499) Friends benefit, PLUS: Priority access to the best seats for our concerts
Friends ($1 - $499) Listing in concert program books and GMCSF’s website
*For more information, contact Fidel Garcia, Development Manager fgarcia@gmcsf.org or 954-7693-2266.
*Denotes chorus members.
VIRTUOSI
As of 12 months ending November 22, 2024
IMPRESARIO ($60,000+ multi-year commitment)
Joseph Fletcher* and Kerry Waldee
MAESTROS ($20,000+)
Dan Chadburn and Tom Nichols
Douglas J. Pew and Donald K. Croxton, LGBT Trust Fund at The Our Fund Foundation
James Mallon*
Paul Rolli and Bennett Quade
COMPOSERS ($10,000 - $19,999)
Ronni and Jonathan Arden
Fred Boykin* and Jack Killen
Charles Klucka
George “Dan” Prigmore and Marcia Hayes
Dr. K. David Weidner* and
Dr. William E. Gannon, Jr.
DIVAS ($5,000 - $9,999)
Philip Cordell
Bert Corona and Rob Russo
William Elliott and David Bacher
Joseph A. Grano
Mark Kent and Kevin Daft
Thomas Lenahan and Ian Cohen*
Don Thompson* and Gene Ramey
Peter Zimmer
PRODUCERS ($2,500 - $4,999)
Brock Boyd and Doug Spellberg
Bradley Bush*
Ginny Dixon and Gisella Oliveira
David Fuerst
Cary Giacalone* and Kris Jarmann
Michael Grosberg
Tyler Healis
Glen Jack
Gerry Kennedy and Paul Smith
George Kling (in loving memory)
Taína and Thomas Mendoza
Tony Minella*
Steve Oden and Mike Greer
Judy Paul
Jonathan Sanz*
Harvey Shapiro and Michael Dager, Stronger
Together Fund at The Our Fund Foundation
William Spinosa* and Frank Molano
Dennis St Jean*
Donald Tomasello* and Robert Pagano
CONDUCTOR’S CIRCLE
BENEFACTORS ($1,500 - $2,499)
Anonymous
Bruce Anderson*
Steven Beakley
Robert Beaulieu*
Andrew Bendik*
Scott Bennett
Rex Beyer* and Nick Meyer
Ray Brush
Antonio Corrente* and Douglas K. Leib
Doug Cureton*
Craig Dannenbrink* and CJ Jensen
Nick Dryfuse*
Michael Foley* and Tommy Zhang
David Hohimer
Matthew Kent and Brenda Moons
Dean Lester
Steve Lutz
Ron MacDonald
Ken Manford and Jeffrey Roach
Virginia McCulloh*
Johnnie Mejia
Michael Ping* and Brad Winnie
Andrew Riddle
Raymond Rodriguez*
Marcus Saitschenko*
Jason Stefani
Richard Vaughan* and Walter Sherman
SUPPORTERS ($500 - $1,499)
William Alverson
Christopher Ambs and Scott Clearwater, Charitable Fund at The Our Fund Foundation
Christian Andaya*
Kenneth J Arruda
Steven and Thomas Begert-Clark
Erin Billings
Bryon Bowlby and Robert Baldwin
Edward Breeden
Doug Carl and Sumner Riddick
John Chaffin* and Douglas Ferguson*
Jerry Chasen
Christopher Chouinard and Harold Rodriguez
Christopher Clark
S Michael Ereshena
Steven Freeman*
Fidel Garcia
Marc Grossman
Paul Guariglia*
Mark Haggard
Phyllis Hershman
Terry Hirsh*
Gary Hoffman
Jim Houser*
David Jobin and Angel Burgos
John Klomp and Joseph Brannen
Kate Kominars
Jeffrey Lammers and James A. McLaughlin
John Lewis* and Louis Hemmerich
A. Ray Lockley* and Marty Onieal
Dorothy Lombardi
Jason MacMenamin and Andrew LaVault
Todd Masnicki and Michael Guttierez
Patrick McLendon*
Julio Mendez
Wayne Morris
Mark Nogal
Chris O’Neill
David Pitre
Dr. Runar Polluson and Robert Pinsky
Justin Robbins*
Jose Santos*
Joel Shapiro
Jeff Sigler*
Damian Siriani and Dave Oeskovic
Larry Small* and David Burba
Stephen Smith
Constance St Jean
Murry Stegelmann
Michael Valdez* and Jeffrey Thomas
Randy Villarreal
Jerry Vroegh
The Jane L. Wexton Revocable Trust
