Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus cancels shows and rehearsals but keeps its community spirit alive.

It is with deep regret that Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus (BrightonGMC) is cancelling its next two shows: Flying the Flag scheduled for 1st and 2nd of May, and Coming Out scheduled for 31st July.

Pre-sales for the Brighton Fringe show, Flying the Flag, were phenomenal, proving that a Eurovision themed show was eagerly anticipated. BrightonGMC has therefore decided to postpone both shows rather than shelve them completely. Naturally, BrightonGMC will refund all tickets booked so far, and it will be contacting those concerned shortly by email.

With the ongoing uncertainty created by the spread of COVID-19, and in the light of the government’s current advice to avoid non-essential contact, BrightonGMC’s Trustees have also agreed that from Tuesday 17th March all weekly rehearsals, weekend workshops and sectionals will be cancelled until further notice. These rehearsal times will, however, be replaced with a variety of online interactions. Throughout the unprecedented and unpredictable period ahead, the Chorus will be working hard to promote and support efforts and activities designed to help members who become sick and/or are self-isolating. In this way, although members will be unable to meet face to face collectively, they will continue to be part of a supportive community, one that is united in its passion for making music through singing. 

Vaughan Leyshon, BrightonGMC’s Chairman, said:

As a membership organisation with a strong emphasis on support and social interaction, clearly, the global health crisis and the uncertainty it brings present enormous challenges. However, the sense of pride, loyalty and community within Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus is strong. I am therefore confident that our members can and will help to steer the Chorus through the next few weeks and months, and that they will emerge from this challenging period having supported each other along the way whilst maintained their shared passion for music and singing together – a passion the Chorus eagerly looks forward to sharing once again with all of its many supporters and friends.

BrightonGMC is looking forward to entertaining all its fans, supporters and friends, with a celebratory event, when the government advises that social gatherings are once again permitted. In the meantime, preparations are going ahead for the Chorus’ 15th Anniversary show Christmas Divas at the Dome Concert Hall – so make sure to make a note of the date: Saturday 12th December.

In the meantime, on behalf of all of BrightonGMC’s members and its music professionals, the board of Trustees thanks its supporters, and, hopes, that until we next meet together for a rousing sing-song, you will ‘go well’ as you look after yourselves and each other.

ENDS