Saturday, June 11, 2022 7:05 PM
Holland Center 12th & Douglas Streets, Omaha
Inherent Worth & Dignity
Since 1971, our Unitarian Universalist faith has supported LGBTQ rights. We celebrate individuals and families with all identities and structures, providing a liberal religious community that embraces you on your faith journey.
Join us on Sundays. First Unitarian Church of Omaha 3114 Harney St., Omaha, NE firstuuomaha.org
3012 S. 119TH ST • OMAHA, NE 2UOmaha.org
WELCOME
WELCOME FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR | DR. A BARRON BRELAND
Welcome to Love Out Loud and RCMC’s triumphant return to the Holland Performing Arts Center! love. So, tonight’s heartfelt performance centers love in all its forms – deep, powerful, lasting, joyful, and uncontainable – traits that are on full display across our country during national Pride month. PG 04
As we close out our 38th Season, continuing to emerge from the pandemic shutdown, to navigate the peaks and valleys of regional cases, and to negotiate the logistics, health and safety concerns, and musical challenges of Covid and its variants, we are more grateful than ever that you have chosen to include this concert in your own busy schedule. Our last concert in this gorgeous venue was 2019, and while the world seems like an entirely different place since then, one thing has not changed – our community’s capacity for
The musical selections, while all themed around love, come from three streams of inspiration – the first is a few selections that were ready for a canceled March 2020 RCMC concert titled A Pop of Color, meant to be performed at the Witherspoon Auditorium in the Joslyn Art Museum a week after the world shut down. These pieces, including “Meadowlark,” “Fields of Gold,” and “A Million Dreams,” capture the colorful intensity and passion of love. These are some of the chorus’s favorites, so it feels right to finally perform them. Another set of pieces were meant to be prepared and performed at the quadren-
nial gathering of the Gay and Lesbian Association (GALA) of Choruses in Minneapolis in July 2020; songs such as “Unruly Heart,” “I’ll Cover You,” and “Let My Love Be Heard” speak to the enduring nature of love. The final additions to tonight’s lineup came when the world lost Stephen Sondheim, iconic musical theater composer and lyricist. His music is a staple, not only among GALA choruses, but for any concert of any ensemble as his incredible and timeless work has been adapted and arranged for all situations. And, no one wrote more eloquently, more poignantly, more bitingly about love and what it can do to and for a person. Finding a whole slate of Sondheim works that fit the pre-established theme of this concert was easy and natural.
As we look forward to the next 38 years of this ensemble and its passion for the community and for being a strong musical voice in it, I hope you’ll consider helping us continue with our mission. We are so proud to represent Nebraska as one of the oldest mixed LGBTQ+ choruses in the country, and we are excited to continue to provide quality, engaging, and inclusive choral performances for the greater Omaha community and beyond. No matter your talents, there is a spot for you in our organization; whether as a singer, volunteer, organizer, donor, or patron, all you have to do is contact us at www.rcmc.org. You won’t regret becoming a part of the River City Mixed Chorus family—I know I haven’t.
WELCOME FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ CHAIR
JULIE L. ORTMAN
courage.
If you are like me, just being inside the magnificent Holland Performing Arts Center makes me excited and happy – I know that whenever I am here, I am going to hear exceptional music and storytelling and that is exactly what you should expect from the River City Mixed Chorus tonight! The show that our chorus and Artistic Team has prepared for you will get you tapping your toes and wiping your eyes as you journey with them through songs of love and
Speaking of tears, mine will also be flowing because this is my last letter to you as the RCMC Board Chair. I have served in this capacity for eight years and it has been an honor and privilege to represent the talented, hardworking, and creative group that collaboratively leads and advocates for the RCMC organization. I am so proud of all we have accomplished these past many years, including successfully transitioning our performances to this fantastic venue and to the Orpheum Theater earlier this season for the very first time. Leading up to 2020, the chorus was experiencing steady growth in active singing members, with 130 singers taking stage in December 2019, up from about 50 when
I first joined the Board, and our audiences were growing as well. In 2019, we also completed our first tour west of Lincoln, to North Platte and Hastings, and had continued to make inroads to local high schools through our River City In The Schools initiative. These accomplishments would not be possible without the generosity of you, our donors, and the strong stewardship of those funds by our Board who have worked to ensure long term sustainability of RCMC for years to come. Even a two-year pandemic could not stop us! We are still standing, still singing, still thriving, and the future is bright! Because of our loyal friends and donors, and a new set of marvelous corporate sponsors for
our 38th season, we are dreaming big dreams for our 39th and 40th seasons and I am confident that the leaders that come after me on the Board of Directors will continue to engage you, the broader Omaha community, and the State at large in the work of supporting diversity, inspiring change, and empowering communities. More than ever, our mission and this work matters. Your support matters. And your friendship and love – out loud – matters! Thank you sincerely for being here tonight. On behalf of the RCMC Board of Directors, please allow me one last time to say: Welcome to the Summer Concert of the River City Mixed Chorus! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 21/22 Julie L. Ortman Chair
J. Scott Barker Board Member
Aiden Quinn Board Member
Bill Canney Vice Chair
Addie Barnhart Board Member
EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBERS
Mark Van Kekerix Treasurer
Scott Focht Board Member
Dr. A. Barron Breland Artistic Director
Maggie Ramos Secretary
Deb Manning Board Member
Eric Rodine Chorus President
Julie L. Ortman, interim Fundraising
Eric Rodine Membership
Addie Barnhart Nominations
Deb Manning Marketing
Mark Van Kekerix Mission & Engagement
COMMITTEE CHAIRS
PG 05
WELCOME FROM THE CHORUS PRESIDENT
ERIC RODINE
From all of us on stage, welcome to Love Out Loud, the second and final concert of our 38th season! As you are taking your seats, we are calming our nerves and straightening our ties so that when we walk onto the wonderPG 06
ful Holland Performing Arts stage, you can both hear and see the excitement and dedication we are bringing to this program tonight! We will be sharing chorus favorites from Broadway and film and channeling the brilliant Stephen Sondheim whose memory and inspiration we celebrate now and into the future. Every one of the nearly 100 singers on stage this evening is a volunteer who has been practicing since February (in face masks!). They have dedicated countless
hours to group rehearsals and individual practice so that we can carry forward our mission as well as help you celebrate our national month of Pride. It is not lost on us that the theme, Love Out Loud, is one that Nebraska’s longest standing LGBTQ+ chorus is especially invested in. We are grateful for your presence here and for continuing to support us all year long as we pour our hearts into supporting diversity, inspiring change, and empowering communities locally and wherever our impact is felt.
Your support, both through your applause and your donations, allows us to continue doing what we love – singing and connecting and gathering to make sure that all of us can Love Out Loud. We hope that our music resonates with you and reminds you that no one is alone, and that love wins, always!
RCMC Thanks Our 2021-2022 Season Sponsors Fortissimo Sponsors:
Mezzo Forte Sponsor:
Piáno Sponsors:
Public Support Provided by:
Nebraska Arts Council & Nebraska Cultural Endowment
THE NEBRASKA ARTS COUNCIL PROUDLY SUPPORTS
RIVER CITY MIXED CHORUS The Nebraska Arts Council, a state agency, has supported this performance through its matching grants program funded by the Nebraska Legislature, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment. For more information on how the Nebraska Arts Council can assist to your organization, or how you can support the
DON’T SING WITH US. You don’t need to carry a tune to be a part of the RCMC family. Join Fifth Voice, our volunteer non-singing members who work off-stage to create the best possible experience for our audience and members.
Nebraska Cultural Endowment, visit NebraskaArtsCouncil.org.
HONORING OUR
COMMUNITY OPPD sings the praises of the River City Mixed Chorus
Leading the way we power the future
Together
WE KEEP AMERICA MOVING
®
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Drive Us At Werner, we support and encourage the diverse voices and perspectives of our associates, our customers and our suppliers. Diversity contributes to innovation and connects us to the many communities we serve. We commit to embrace these values as we move toward an increasingly inclusive culture where every associate feels empowered to bring their whole self to Werner.
Werner.com @WernerEnterprisesInc
@One_Werner
I
800.228.2240 @WernerEnterprises
@One_Werner
The Episcopal Church
Want to learn more?
SAME GREAT CHORUS, BITE-SIZED. Meet our smaller ensemble, River’s Edge, that’s ready to entertain you and your guests on any occasion. Weddings, birthdays, work functions, you name it. Head to rcmc.org to book River’s Edge for your next gathering.
GET A MUSICAL THEATER DEGREE The Iowa Western Musical Theater Department offers a two-year professional training program. (Associate of Applied Arts) Students in this conservatory style program receive intensive training in acting, singing and dance in preparation for a professional career in the performing arts!
Schedule your visit to the planetarium at http://www.rollingbluffsplanetarium.com Private group reservations What’s up in the sky presentations? Constellation presentations from 16 cultural groups from around the world. Visit us at our location in Council Bluffs or have the portable planetarium travel to your event. Check out our online store for small batch beard balms and
For more information contact khale@iwcc.edu / 712.325.3409
oils. (Our owner knows something about beard care ! )
34+ YEARS STRONG IN THE OMAHA METRO AREA
OMAHA
PFLAG - extended family of LGBTQ+ and you PFLAG - familia extendida de LGBTQ+ y tú Because together, we're stronger SUPPORT MEETINGS TWICE MONTHLY One meeting bilingual (Spanish/English)
PFLAG-OMAHA.ORG HELPLINE: 402.291.6781
Lifting Voices in Celebration Together E Creative proudly supports the River City Mixed Chorus. The extraordinary tradition of harmony they share with us elevates and celebrates the many voices that make our community. A community we take pride in.
BUILDING BRANDS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
ECREATIVEINC.COM
Transforming ourselves and our world as we live, teach, proclaim, and celebrate Christ’s all-inclusive love.
Sunday Service 10:30 AM Fellowship 9:30AM in the Social Hall
A church dedicated to community and inclusion for ALL.
819. S. 22nd St. Omaha, NE 402-345-2563 www.mccomaha.org
@mcc_omaha
YEARS BEHIND THE SCENES. In the same way our products connect the community’s infrastucture, the performing arts also provide the means for us to come together. We happily support the River City Mixed Chorus. Learn more at valmont.com.
Things we do: Branding. Advertising. Marketing. Things we don’t do: Settle. We’re a full-service advertising agency located in Aksarben Village on a mission to
create things that matter. Whether it’s branding, content marketing, web design or video
production, we help our clients tell stories that people want to hear. ervinandsmith.com
Free!
all ages
June 1-July 31, 2022
Receive a free book when you register! Complete any combination of 10 activities or reading/listening hours to receive a(n): • Book • Voucher for a book from the Friends of Omaha Public Library book sale • Omaha Storm Chasers ticket voucher
presented by the richard brooke Foundation
Complete any combination of 10 activities or reading/listening hours to receive a voucher for a book from the Friends of Omaha Public Library book sale, and have a chance to win additional prizes. Prizes available June 1, while supplies last.
(for an 8/3 or 8/7 game)
• Chance to win additional prizes
learn more and sign up at your local branch or omahalibrary.org.
countrysideucc.org
C U R L E Y L AW O F F I C E . C O M
Legendary Pizza & Pasta LUNCH & DINNER • DINE IN OR TAKE-OUT • CATERING PARTY ROOM • FOOD TRUCK EASY ONLINE ORDERING
PRINTING
• GRAPHICS • COPIES 1207 South 13th Street • Omaha, NE 68108 402.558.2233 • oh-kfastprint.net
Pot of Gold Bookkeeping LLC
Daniel Zant
Professional Virtual Bookkeeping 402-205-8764 daniel@potofgoldbookkeeping.com
www.potofgoldbookkeeping.com
4432 Leavenworth 402-556-6464
Closed Mondays
LaCasaPizzaria.net
WE’RE COMING OUT. AGAIN. Like everyone else in quarantine, we did some deep cleaning with our brand, creating a new logo with a fresh, modern, and creative look that better represents our chorus. It really suits us.
CONCERT
ARTISTIC BIOS 21/22
With degrees in Music Theory and Choral Conducting from the University of Georgia and the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, Dr. A. Barron Breland has a diverse background in many different fields of music, including the piano and saxophone. Currently, he is Professor of Music and Chair of the Department of Fine & Performing Arts at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, conducting their premiere ensemble, the Creighton University Chamber Choir, and teaching classes in music theory, history, and conducting.
DR. A. BARRON BRELAND ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Breland is in demand throughout the Midwest as a conductor, chorusmaster, clinician, and adjudicator, and he has prepared choruses for Grammy and Tony-winning artists such as Laura Benanti, John Mellencamp, Brian d’Arcy James, and conductors Dale Warland and Ted Sperling. Breland has also served as Chorusmaster and prepared numerous works for the Omaha Symphony, including Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, Carmina Burana, Elijah, Messiah, and many others. Breland’s first exposure to professional choral music was as a member of the Atlanta Boy Choir where he performed with Robert Shaw and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, as well as in tours and festivals throughout Europe. Today, besides his leadership of the Creighton University Chamber Choir and RCMC, he is also the Music Director of Résonance, a semi-professional chorus whose debut album Pilgrimage was released in July 2020 on the MSR Classics label. Breland became the Artistic Director of the River City Mixed Chorus in January 2011, and in his 10-year tenure with the organization the ensemble has grown to over 120 active singing members, has headlined conferences and performed alongside Grammywinning Conspirare, and has taken the stages of historic and iconic venues around the region. All of the ensembles under Breland’s leadership perform regularly with the Omaha Symphony, and all have performed at state and regional ACDA, and NMEA conferences.
Adam Witte has never been one to shy away from a music genre or musical instrument. His tastes, talent, and curiosity run far and wide, taking him on adventures across Europe playing euphonium solos with the University of Nebraska-Omaha Symphonic Wind Ensemble, guiding him to sing acapella vocal jazz with Nexus, and prompting him to play keyboards with local band The Confidentials. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of Omaha with an emphasis in euphonium.
ADAM WITTE ASSISTANT ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Though his musical accomplishments are long and varied, vocal music has played a big role in Adam’s journey. He has always been involved in church music, from singing in the choir to playing piano and handbells; most recently, he served as Director of Music Ministries at St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church in Omaha for seven and a half years. It only seems fitting that Adam became a singing member of River City Mixed Chorus only to be named Assistant Artistic Director a short year later. In addition to his engagements with RCMC and Nexus, Adam is also a singing member of the Omaha vocal ensemble Resonance.
PG 19
ARTISTIC BIOS 21/22
Keith Hart was a public school music teacher in a previous life. As much as he loved the job and working with kids, he felt an undeniable tug from the theater world. He set his sights on a graduate degree in theatre, and worked on productions at various theaters in Kansas City. With production experience under his belt, Keith moved to Omaha, Nebraska where he has worked as a pianist, musical director, and scenic designer for numerous theatrical productions. He also holds down a day job as Manager of Programs at Joslyn Castle.
KEITH HART COLLABORATIVE PIANIST
The piano has been a constant in Keith’s life. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in music education with an emphasis in piano from Northwest Missouri State University and a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Missouri – Kansas City. His love of accompanying and playing with a wide range of soloists, ensembles, and choirs led him to River City Mixed Chorus in 2015, joining the organization as Collaborative Pianist.
PG 20
AN ENSEMBLE OF TALENT, IDENTITY, AND HUMAN KINDNESS.
SUMMER CONCERT | LOVE OUT LOUD
CONCERT SUPPORT
ARTISTIC TEAM Dr. A. Barron Breland Artistic Director & Conductor
Peter Soby Videographer & Video Production
Adam Witte Assistant Artistic Director
Dan Brennan, O-pa Production Manager
Keith Hart Collaborative Pianist
IATSE Local 42 Stagehands & Electricians
Michele Yindrick Technical Director
Mike Runice, GranStan Services Video Projection
Ashleigh-Dawn KrieghFleming Stage Manager
SECTION LEADERS
INSTRUMENTALISTS
Emily Koenig-Barker Soprano Section
Erica Nightengale Flute
Mariah Frahm Alto Section
Emily McIvor Clarinet
Donald Callen Freed Cameron Koenig-Barker Tenor Section
Ben Nichols Tenor Saxophone
Adam Steinbach Bass Section
Corrie Suhr Event Photographer
Jason Johnson Trumpet I Marcus Nunez Trumpet II Shawn Bell Trombone
Stephanie Vik ASL Interpreter
Bobby Scharmann Bass Guitar
Travis Mullins Chorus Manager
Brad Thomson Guitar Vince Krysl Drums Kimberly Pearce Synthesizer
The only reason to
write is from love. Stephen Sondheim 1930-2021
PG 21
SUMMER CONCERT | LOVE OUT LOUD
SINGERS
SOPRANO
ALTO
Anne Barker | 17
Micah Oswald | 1
Alicia Amedee | 1
Deb Manning | 7
Sam Bates | 3
Sara Peterson* | 15
Michaela Baumeister | 1
Christa McCall | 2
Mary Jane Betterman* | 2
Maddison Prendergast | 2
Katie Burke* | 1
LuAnn McClarnon* | 7
Katya Brunette | 6
Emma Cox* | 1
Joyce McVicker | 20
Tracey E. Buettner* | 4
Rev. Maya RavensongLawrence | 2
Sue Chamberlin* | 28
Karen Davidson-Fisher* | 33
Alyson Meadows | 23
Rebecca Rotert Shaw | 3
Sara Dean | 4
Elena Salisbury | 10
Kelsey Deabler* | 7
Elizabeth Melani* | 1
Dakota Ghegan | 2
Caryn Scheer | 2
Emma Delehant* | 1
Carol Ramsey | 16
Erika Graber* | 1
Robin Sheldrake | 13
Danielle Emsick | 7
Vicki Rushlau* | 24
Connie Grant-Leanna | 15
Lynell Stafford* | 11
Emily Ertzner | 12
Kelsey Scovill | 5
Judy Hancock | 38
Suzy Stark | 13
Laura Finken | 22
Julie Sharp | 5
Valerie Haynes* | 16
Denneal Stauffer* | 7
Mariah Frahm | 13
Sarah Shaw* | 4
Jackie Kappes | 2
Christine Valish* | 5
Jody Gernandt | 19
Rose Uhrich | 2
Emily Koenig-Barker | 14
Halle Vance* | 1
Vicki Grunwald* | 25
Michele Yindrick | 21
Bridget Lachowsky | 11
Brittany Wineinger | 3
Whitney Hansen* | 1
PG
Sue Lively* | 16
Irene Hawkins | 2
22
Jillian McCall | 17
Nichole Hawkins | 8
Nicole McMorrow* | 1
Katherine Higbee | 6
Hannah Lee Miller | 2
Michelle JansenGriswold | 7
Alyssa Nelson | 8 Reo Newring | 18 Tianna Nitz | 4 Christina Ochoa* | 1 Cassondra Opal | 11
Nancy Mealey | 19
Gloria Jensen | 25 Claire Katan | 2 Victoria Krol | 4 Krissa Lee-Regier | 24 Julie Major-Frunz | 1
MEMBERSHIP PINS The lapel pins worn by RCMC members are symbols of pride that showcase their singing appearances. The colors correlate to the number of concerts in which the member participated.
1-5 Concerts
30-39 Concerts
6-9 Concerts
40-49 Concerts
10-19 Concerts
50+ Concerts
20-29 Concerts
SUMMER CONCERT | LOVE OUT LOUD
SINGERS
TENOR
BASS
TJ Badley* | 1
T. Zachary Huit | 2
Stan Brown | 71
Scott Miller* | 25
Matthew Bang | 12
Kayla McCain* | 1
Bill Canney | 16
Gene Moore* | 12
Sam Barker | 13
Jerry Meis* | 27
Gene Comstock | 2
Gedi Murauskas | 2
Roger Bennett* | 52
Stephen Moore | 9
Kieran Foster* | 3
Michael Parke* | 1
Jeff Bowman | 2
David Munoz | 1
Robert Fraass* | 5
John Porter | 7
Michael Claar* | 5
Floyd Palser | 2
Tom Gasnick* | 1
Aiden Quinn* | 8
Steven Crandall* | 2
Nik Shapoval* | 8
Jonas Glazeski* | 3
James Rivera | 1
Bryan Crawford | 21
Thomas Simons | 9
Victor Hahn | 36
Eric Rodine | 7
Alexander Crooks* | 1
Nathan Stanley | 1
Keith Hale | 3
Steven Spencer* | 6
Jared Cunningham | 1
Grae Steele | 2
Chris Holst | 55
Allan Stamler* | 3
Mark Curley | 24
Brent Thomsen* | 6
Adam Steinbach | 7
David Ellis | 2
Mark Van Kekerix* | 33
Donald-Brian Johnson* | 13 Cameron Koenig-Barker | 17
Adam Witte | 14
Adam Lawton | 2
Brian Wyant | 24
Dennis Fellhauer | 9
Daniel Scott Wiese | 2
Justin Fisher* | 1
Larry Wilson | 38
Donald Callen Freed | 5 Bradly Goodner | 1 Andrea Grover | 1 Christopher Hill* | 1
Jimmy Lowe | 2 Chris Michener | 7 Roy Miller | 4
Brett Toay | 10 Tony Wredt | 5 Ryan Zeigler | 2 Phil Zellner* | 12
* Leave of Absence
PG 23
CONCERT SONGS
LOVE OUT LOUD SOMETHING’S COMING/TONIGHT
MEADOWLARK FROM THE BAKER’S
FROM WEST SIDE STORY
WIFE
Music & Lyrics by Leonard Bernstein
Music & Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz
Arranged by Ed Lojeski
Arranged by Mac Huff
BEING ALIVE FROM COMPANY Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Arranged by Mac Huff Thomas Simons, tenor PG 24
NO ONE IS ALONE FROM INTO THE
Brittany Wineinger, soprano Elena Salisbury, soprano LET MY LOVE BE HEARD Lyrics by Alfred Noyes Music by Jake Runestad
WOODS
TAKE ME TO THE WORLD
Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Arranged by Mark A. Brymer
Arranged by R. Ryan Endris
SONDHEIM! A CHORAL
SUNDAY FROM SUNDAY IN THE
CELEBRATION II
PARK WITH GEORGE
I. Not While I’m Around
Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Adam Witte, baritone
Arranged by Mac Huff
II. Losing My Mind Gene Comstock, baritone III. Send In the Clowns Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Arranged by Mac Huff
— 20-MINUTE INTERMISSION — Cash bars are available in the lobbies. Be sure to also check out RCMC’s merchandise table and raffle basket fundraiser in the main lobby on the orchestra level to purchase an RCMC t-shirt or a chance to win a gift basket!
SONDHEIM! A CHORAL
A MILLION DREAMS FROM THE
CELEBRATION I
GREATEST SHOWMAN
I. Comedy Tonight
Music & Lyrics by Benj Pasek &
Deb Manning, mezzo soprano Rose Uhrich, mezzo soprano
Justin Paul Arranged by Mac Huff
Bryan Crawford, tenor
Katya Brunette, soprano
Michelle Jansen-Griswold, mezzo
Danielle Emsick, mezzo soprano
soprano Eric Rodine, bass Anne Barker, soprano II. Into the Woods Bridget Lachowsky, soprano Dennis Fellhauer, tenor Alyssa Nelson, soprano Mariah Frahm, mezzo soprano III. Putting It Together Adam Witte, baritone Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Arranged by Mac Huff UNRULY HEART FROM THE PROM Lyrics by Chad Beguelin Music by Matthew Sklar Arranged by Greg Gilpin Emily Koenig-Barker, soprano Sam Barker, tenor
I’LL COVER YOU FROM RENT Music & Lyrics by Jonathan Larson Arranged by Mac Huff FIELDS OF GOLD Music & Lyrics by Sting Arranged by Greg Jasperse YOU WILL BE FOUND FROM DEAR
EVAN HANSEN Music & Lyrics by Benj Pasek & Justin Paul Arranged by Mac Huff Robin Sheldrake, mezzo soprano Joyce McVicker, mezzo soprano Michaela Baumeister, mezzo soprano
PG 25
I Help Couples Do you want to strengthen your marriage or partnership, address a critical issue such as an affair, or work toward a respectful separation?
I can help.
We make it easy!
Couples Therapy Offered: . Premarital . Relationship Support . Infidelity/Affair . Discernment . Divorce/Closure
Come stay in the beautiful hills of Cass County near Ashland. We’ll help make your next event, meeting, or family reunion less stressful and more successful. Join us in this place set apart!
CJHCenter.org 402-944-2544
Anne Barker LIMHP, LCSW
. Psychotherapist . Licensed Clinical Social Worker . Twenty+ years of experience BarkerTherapyArts.com
EMPLOYEE RESOURCE GROUP
Celebrating authenticity in agriculture Farm Credit Services of America is a financial cooperative - owned and governed by the customers we serve - with a singular focus on supporting rural communities and agriculture.
To learn about our products and careers visit fcsamerica.com.
Looking for a
safe,
caring,
welcoming,
relaxed, inclusive, joyful
community
to explore your faith, serve others,
worship with friends, ask tough questions, and be affirmed
?
as a beloved child of God
www.hclchurch.com
We are proud to be part of this community. We are proud to be part of this community.
Supporting Our Community SINCE 1855
npdodge.com
TICKETS ON SALE SOON!
Saturday, December 10, 2022 | 7:05 PM | Holland Center 402.345.0606 | TicketOmaha.com
Maggie Lawler, CTC Travel Advisor
A Bursch Travel Company www.PegasusOmaha.com • Maggie.Lawler@PegasusOmaha.com
SUPPORT
SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The River City Mixed Chorus Singers, Staff, and fellow Board Members wish to recognize and congratulate
JULIE L. ORTMAN for serving three consecutive terms on RCMC’s Board of Directors, including eight years as Board Chair. Under her leadership, the organization has tripled in both singing membership and annual operating budget, performed at Omaha’s most prestigious venues, including the Holland and Orpheum Theater, expanded outreach to Western Nebraska and Iowa, developed our River City in the Schools outreach performances, and created a strategic plan for continued growth and development into the future. Thank you, Julie, for your service!
FOUNDING MEMBERS for bravely putting into motion their dream of a more inclusive Omaha. BOARD OF DIRECTORS, COMMITTEE CHAIRS, AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS who donate their time to ensure that our organization continues to thrive through every season. MICHELE YINDRICK for continuing to volunteer her time, talent, and professional expertise in technical theatrical production to make each RCMC performance a success. FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH PASTORS AND STAFF for providing RCMC with weekly rehearsal space and storage for RCMC’s music library and other materials critical to our success as an organization.
VALERIE HAYNES for serving as RCMC’s music librarian and for the countless hours organizing RCMC’s singer retreats season after season. Val’s thoughtful documentation of process will ensure continued success in retreat planning as she passes the torch next season.
CHRIS ACKER OF MIXING ROOM STUDIOS AND HANK KUHLMANN for creating the pre-concert greeting.
SOUL & SWAG, ANGIE BAUMERT SVEC, OWNER for donating t-shirts for our Spring Retreat tie-dying activity, and for the production of our brand t-shirts.
CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS for rehearsal and meeting space and use of percussion equipment.
ONPXL, MATT BROSS & CHAD EACKER, OWNERS for creating our interactive logo and brand elements for use in future marketing materials.
UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA OMAHA COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CENTER for providing space and use of virtual meeting equipment for RCMC’s monthly Board meetings.
JERRY AND STAFF AT OH-K FAST PRINT for timely printing of the concert programs and marketing materials.
JULIE AND DAVID ORTMAN AND FAMILY for coordinating the raffle basket fundraiser during the concert.
STANDING FOR MANY. SINGING AS ONE.
PG 33
DONOR BENEFIT LEVELS
PRODUCER CIRCLE OF GIVING
PERFORMERS $1 – $249
SOLOISTS $250– $499
DIVAS
$500– $999
Recognition of donation in concert programs and on our website One (1) ticket each to the winter and summer concerts
Recognition of donation in concert programs and on our website Two (2) tickets each to the winter and summer concerts Priority seating at concerts (must RSVP) Invitation to an annual Donor Appreciation Event
Recognition of donation in concert programs and on our website
PG 34
Recognition of donation in concert programs
PRODIGY
$1,000 – $2,499
Four (4) tickets each to the winter and summer concerts Priority seating at concerts (must RSVP) Recognition of your support at our concerts Invitation to an annual Donor Appreciation Event
Recognition of donation in concert programs and on our website
VIRTUOSO
$2,500 – $4,999
Six (6) tickets each to the winter and summer concerts Priority seating at concerts (must RSVP) Recognition of your support at our concerts Invitation to an annual Donor Appreciation Event
Recognition of donation in concert programs and on our website Six (6) tickets each to the winter and summer concerts
MAESTRO $5,000 +
Priority seating at concerts (must RSVP) Recognition of your support at our concerts Invitation to an annual Donor Appreciation Event Dinner for Four (4) with RCMC’s Artistic Director
OUR DONORS
PRODUCER CIRCLE OF GIVING
As a non-profit organization, we rely on the generosity of our allies to help us continue our mission to create exceptional musical experiences that support diversity, inspire change, and empower communities. We are so grateful for the support of our Producer Circle of Giving. If you wish to become a member of our Producer Circle of Giving, donations can be made online by visiting rcmc.org.
Contributions from June 1, 2021 – May 31, 2022 VIRTUOSO $2500-$4999 George Kleine & Tom Knox Mark Van Kekerix PRODIGY $1000-$2499 Mark & Ginny Curley Lynne Mytty Kathleen Smith DIVAS $500-$999 J. Scott & Anne Barker Randall Donner & Ron Chase Scott Focht Bill Gaus Michelle Jansen-Griswold Hank Kuhlmann & Donald-Brian Johnson Raymond Vondrak SOLOISTS $250-$499 Maureen Boyle-Manganaro In memory of Mike Boyle Donald & Barbara Bredthauer Thomas & Sara Dean In honor of the RCMC Board of Directors Joyce Elder & Salli Compton In memory of Brian D. Adams Lee Foster Vicki Grunwald Keith Hart Thomas Liefer Deb Manning & Bill Sukstorf Penny May In honor of Dennis Fellhauer Loren & Iola Mullins Tom Nielsen & Kevin Rose In memory of Brian D. Adams Mark Schulze Allan & Lynnette Stamler Lawrence “Red” & Jan Thomas
PERFORMERS $1-$249 Vicki Adams In memory of Brian D. Adams Mary Anna & Clyde Anderson Carol Beaty Charles Begay William Bender Nancy Brookhart Ann Coderko Patricia Cottrell In honor of Keith Hart Bryan Crawford Catherine Cryer In honor of Judy Hancock & Brian Wyant Daniel de Riancho Rose Hill Dorr In memory of Robert Dorr Margaret Elofson Coral Erikson In honor of Joyce McVicker Cleveland Evans Laura & David Finken Terry & Mollie Foster In honor of Carol Ramsey Robert Fraass Jody Gernandt DeWayne Greim Andrea Grover Louanne Gruidel Victor Hahn Keith Hale John Hall & Bob Hoppe Judith Hancock Anthony Harris & David Kresha Valerie Haynes & Dee Ramm Kerrin Hoyer Michael Hoyer Ron & Rikki Hulsebus Mia Jenkins In honor of Gedi Murauskas
Ken & Maureen Kalkowski Dan & Lisa Kammerer Dionne Kirksey In honor of Bill Canney Marshall & Barbara Kushner Paul Landry Larry & Laura Leeds Monty McClean Patricia McGuire In memory of Brian D. Adams Robert & Katherine McMeen Scott & Melissa McMullen Alyson Meadows Nancy Mealey William Miller Steven Mohr Janis Mullins Dorothy Neill Clint Pearcy Debra Rosman-Webber Caryn Scheer Myron Sikora Stephen Skelly Carole Souza Thomas Stalnaker Grae Steele P.J. Thomas Brent Thomsen & Andrew Rouillard In memory of Myron Paulsen Amy Tillman James & Susan Tracy Rose Uhrich Lauren Micek Vargas Richard White Rebecca Wiegand Larry Wilson Scott Winkler Vickie Zaura In memory of Brian D. Adams Anonymous
PG 35
BUSINESS/ORGANIZATION DONATIONS & GRANT FUNDING Amazon Smiles Foundation Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska Buildertrend Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Conagra Brands Foundation (employee match) Conagra Brands LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group Deluxe Corporation Foundation (employee match) Farm Credit Services of America First United Methodist Church (in-kind)
Heartland Pride Ice Bowl Invitational Tournament Imperial Court of Nebraska Foundation Kroger Mutual of Omaha Nebraska Arts Council Network for Good Omaha Public Power District Prime Therapeutics (employee match) Sheet Music Plus Small Business Administration – Sheltered Venue Operators Grant State Farm Companies Foundation
State of Nebraska - American Rescue Program Funding Together A Greater Good (TAGG) Union Pacific Foundation United Way of the Midlands Valmont Industries, Inc Walmart
RYAN-KNICELY SCHOLARSHIP FUND The Ryan-Knicely Scholarship Fund was created to ensure that there are no financial barriers to being a member of the Chorus for anyone who wishes to sing. Chorus members in need of financial assistance can apply to the Board of Directors for help from the Fund with covering Chorus-related expenses. If you would like to make a donation to the Ryan-Knicely Scholarship Fund, please mail to River City Mixed Chorus, PO Box 3267, Omaha, NE 68103, or email us at fundraising@rcmc.org. Contributions from June 1, 2021 – May 31, 2022 PG 36
Anne Barker Bryan Crawford Laura Finken Robert Fraass Bill Gaus Andrea Grover
Keith Hale Valerie Haynes Victor Hahn Nancy Mealey Allan Stamler Grae Steele
Omaha Community Foundation - Equality Fund for LGBTQIA2S+
SUPPORT THE ENDOWMENT The River City Mixed Chorus Endowment Fund was established by the Board of Directors in 2015. Administered by the Omaha Community Foundation, the Endowment Fund is a resource that will help ensure the long-term financial health of the Chorus. The Fund is set up so that the principal is not used, but proceeds from the principal will help fund the annual budget. The balance in the RCMC Endowment Fund is currently $67,336.28. To contribute to the Endowment Fund with your tax-deductible contribution, please contact fundraising@rcmc.org or (402) 341-SING. Contributions from July 1, 2015 – May 31, 2022 Randall Donner & Ron Chase Bill Gaus Nan Knicely Estate Trust
Frank & Penny Kowal Jeff Nelson Mary Lou Ruh Estate Trust
Allan Stamler RCMC Board of Directors
IN MEMORIAM
CANTO ULTIMO
Italian, meaning “final song.” In our hearts they will always live. Their love, their voices, and their smiles are forever imprinted in our minds. The River City Mixed Chorus remembers past members who have sung their canto ultimo. Chuck Alan Chip Jerry Kruse Jerry Peck Johnathan John Marilyn Norm Tim Joel
Brandon Vance Fritz Steven Jonathan D. Cole Ronnie Bruce Beyersdorf Mark Farmer Aleta Fenceroy Mike Maciejewski Elmorine McKiernan
Aramando E. Andrade Kathy England Craig Boetger Pat Phalen Rich Ketter Betty Dorr Nan Knicely Alexandra Nather Douglas Steinkruger Anne Boyle Duane Lundeen
Peggy Zellner Martin Hanna Dennis Pierce Brian D. Adams John Coe Michael Dantzler
PG 38
©2019, Carrie Baker, Glorious Beauties. Watercolor.
ABOUT
WHO WE ARE
OMAHA TO DES MOINES AND BACK AGAIN. Approximately 260 miles on an unexceptional stretch of I-80 that left plenty of time for life-altering discussions. Six friends went to see the Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus’ one-night-only performance in Des Moines. The year was 1984 — the same year that GALA Choruses, the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses, was founded. That night changed everything. On the drive home, the friends discussed the need to spread the same messages of love, unity, inclusion, acceptance, and empowerment within their own community. They organized The Mid City Chorus with three other friends, nine men and one woman, and had their first performance at a variety show for the Metropolitan Community Church of Omaha. The reception was overwhelming. Their second performance was a Christmas concert at The Max. Around that time, the founding members officially changed the name of the Chorus to River City Mixed Chorus (RCMC) and solidified their place in GALA.
PG 40
Since our humble beginnings, we’ve grown to more than 130 singing members, with hundreds of performances and sold-out holiday shows. We’re determined to make you laugh, make you think, and, more importantly, give you a sense of belonging.
HOW GAY CHORUSES CAME TO BE
There are times when unimaginable acts of tragedy unleash our inner courage and fuel us to act. This was such a time. In the fall of 1978, San Francisco Supervisor Harvey Milk, the first openly gay politician in American history, and Mayor George Moscone were heartlessly assassinated in San Francisco City Hall. The event sent shockwaves through the gay and lesbian community. That evening, the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus gathered on the steps of City Hall and held it’s very first public performance. At the time, the word “gay” in a chorus name was unheard of. Three years later, the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus toured the US, forever changing the lives of millions of people and inspiring the formation of many new gay and lesbian choruses. By 1984, fourteen of those choruses bonded together to found what is now the largest gay and lesbian choral organization in the world —the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA Choruses). GALA Choruses has since grown to more than 10,000 singers from more than 190 choruses, all sharing in the common mission of empowering LGBTQ+ Choruses as they change the world through song. It was because of that fateful day and heartbreaking tragedy that many choruses were able to find their voices.
TIMELINE 2004
Music Director Mark Kurtz was commissioned to compose original songs based on political breakthroughs and social changes in the LGBTQ+ community
1990
1984
RCMC members participated in the Names Quilt to honor members who passed away from the AIDS crisis
Mid City Chorus, now River City Mixed Chorus, was founded
1988
Music Director John Kelly co-directed RCMC and Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus, helping the two choruses collaborate on performances in both cities
1991-2000
Thanks to a GALA grant and private donations, RCMC was able to commission several original works for its repertoire
2016
Puttin’ on the R.I.T.S (River City in the Schools) was launched with a series of performances in local high schools
2011
Dr. A Barron Breland was named Artistic Director and helped grow membership and attendance
2019
RCMC traveled on a mini tour to North Platte and Hastings to present its mission and message to a new audience
CREATING EXCEPTIONAL MUSICAL EXPERIENCES
AUDITIONS
PG 41
LOVED THE SHOW?
Found yourself bobbing your head and tapping your feet to the music? Pictured yourself on stage singing with our talented crew? You’re in luck; we saved a spot just for you. Our next round of auditions will be held in August at First United Methodist Church. Email us at audition@rcmc.org to reserve your spot. In the meantime, you can peruse our commonly asked questions at rcmc.org.
ADVERTISE WITH US Support RCMC and reach a wider audience by advertising your business in our concert programs. For specific details and ad packages, email playbillads@rcmc.org or call our sing line at 402-341-SING (7464)
GET IN TOUCH contact@rcmc.org | 402-341-7476 | PO Box 3267, Omaha NE, 68103 | rcmc.org
AN ALL AGES SCAVENGER HUNT NOW through September 5
Because EverygNOmE Needs Nature 100 Bancroft Street, Omaha lauritzengardens.org
3647 Lafayette Avenue (2 blocks north of Cuming on 38th Street) 402.551.4728 augustanalutheran.com Visit us on Facebook
A Reconciling in Christ Congregation
We are a team of confident, clear, committed attorneys representing clients in divorce & family law, estate planning, business law & contracts, workers’ compensation, immigration law and criminal defense. Our firm was founded on the idea that it is our responsibility to empower our clients by offering straightforward legal advice and strategies. With a keen understanding of the law, creative thinking and a whole lot of hustle, we put our voices to work for our clients. Call, text or email to schedule a consultation.
See good movies. American independents. Foreign films. Documentaries. Classics and series.
1340 MIKE FAHEY STREET OMAHA , NE 68102
The Power of the Dog (2021)
4952 DODGE STREET OMAHA , NE 68132
Event calendar at Owlish.org Gala Benefit September 30th, 2022! The mission of Owlish is to advocate for older LGBTQ+ adults through education, policy, and resource development. We serve anyone who identifies as part of the LGBTQ+ community and is over 50.
Contact us at info@owlish.org
At First Central Congregational Church, we believe
God is still speaking, Join us online or in person for worship Sundays @ 10:30
421 S 36th Street Omaha, NE 68131
You always hear:
Love what you do... You know what WE Love?
HELPING PEOPLE
New Client Special 33% off 712 256 2131
AN OMAHA WHERE EVERY VOICE MATTERS. Harmony comes from diversity. It’s the blending of individuals unified toward a common vision and supporting each other in common goals. The Greater Omaha Chamber’s Commitment to Opportunity, Diversity and Equity (CODE) is a call to action for the region’s business community to achieve and sustain economic equity and inclusiveness for all.
That is our Omaha, and we can get there together.
OmahaChamber.org