THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

Led by Founding Artistic Director Tom Vendafreddo, the Chorale is the brainchild of the familiar performer and music director as well as Associate Artistic Director Devin DeSantis, another familiar Chicago-area professional musical theatre actor. In the summer, backstage during an intermission of Godspell at the Marriott Theatre, they lamented that they missed the choral ensemble experience and the musicianship they gained from performing in choirs in the past. Soon thereafter, the Chorale formed.

"Our group is comprised of musicians, actors, directors, stage managers, designers and others in the theatre community who value the power of choral singing. Myself and my collaborators are thrilled to provide a consistent artistic outlet for the diversely talented artists in the city of Chicago," said Vendafreddo, who has conducted productions for Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Writers Theatre, Marriott Theatre, Paramount Theatre in Aurora, among others. DeSantis added: "We're eager to introduce various types of music and broaden the artistic experience for both singer and audience."

In the mid-December concert, the Chorale will perform works by Britten, Mozart, Paletrina, Viadana, Lauridsen and celebrated Northfield composer Gary Fry, among others. A smaller ensemble of 20 voices from the Chorale led by DeSantis will sing works by Byrd, Daley and Duruflé. There will be a special prelude beginning at 7pm by the Chicago Temple Bell Choir.

"We hope to develop a supportive following of those who love and cherish choral music as we do," added Company Manager Stephen Schellhardt, a multiple Joseph Jefferson Award nominee. The Chorale's Managing Director is classical vocalist Lauren Iezzi.

The Chicago Temple is located at 77 W. Washington Street, second floor, in the Loop. Tickets may be purchased online for $25 at www.brownpapertickets.com or at the door for $30. Tickets are $10 for students and members of the theatre industry. For more information, email the Chorale at chicagoartistschorale@gmail.com .