The Maine Gay Men’s Chorus. Photo by Steven Bridges Larry Jackson’s final three shows as artistic director of the Maine Gay Men’s Chorus are this weekend, and he’s pulling out all the stops, with a showcase of favorite songs. The shows at South Portland High School will feature the 38-member chorus, with piano accompanist Sarah Phinney and guest singers Martin Lescault and Jennifer Miller.
Billed as “Broadway Gala,” they’ll perform tunes like “For Good” from “Wicked,” “Someone Like You” from “Jekyll & Hyde” and “Before The Parade Passes By” from “Hello, Dolly!” along with a medley of numbers from “Oklahoma,” all either chosen or approved by Jackson. “I like a variety show format. I pick music that I love, and then I put it together in as logical fashion that I can,” Jackson said.
The chorus was formed in 1992 and enjoyed a 20-year run before folding due to financial hardship. But when Jackson was at the Portland Pride festival in 2014 and missed seeing the chorus, he got to work trying to revive it. A year later, with the help of word of mouth at Blackstones bar in Portland as well as the reach of social media, the Maine Gay Men’s Chorus was back to performing during Pride month and the holiday season.
Maine Gay Men’s Chorus President Tommy Waltz describes its members as “stewards of hope, creativity and community,” and that sense of community will be on display this weekend. One of the chorus’ primary goals is to create.
