By Cicero A. Estrella
The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus will commemorate the 30th anniversary of the world’s first AIDS requiem with Angels, a musical event that will be available to stream for free at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 11.
Angels will pay tribute to those who have been lost to AIDS with exciting performances, interviews, singer spotlights and more. The virtual event commemorates the anniversary of “When We No Longer Touch,” the first-ever AIDS requiem from three decades ago.
“Those of us now living through the second pandemic of our lives know on an even deeper level that we are surrounded by angels,” SFGMC artistic director Dr. Timothy Seelig said. “The losses are unimaginable. There is no doubt they continue to give us strength to carry on in their memory.
“This extraordinary work has proved itself to be timeless. Having been performed all over the world, it still brings a very personal message to each listener. All of us have experienced all of this in our lives.”
Angels will rebroadcast SFGMC’s 40th-anniversary concert from Oct. 26, 2018 at San Francisco’s St. Ignatius Church, which was commissioned by Dr. Seelig and the Turtle Creek Chorale in Dallas, Texas
“As we approach the one-year anniversary of COVID-19, it is important to reflect on the loss our community has endured, both now and during the AIDS pandemic,” SFGMC executive director Chris Verdugo said. “Angels is sure to be a cathartic experience that sends a message of healing and hope.”
Angels will also premiere a video celebrating the creation of SFGMC’s Artist Portal at the National AIDS Memorial Grove in Golden Gate Park. Located at the west entrance of the Grove, the installation provides the extended SFGMC family from around the world with a place to reflect and remember. The memorial includes the names of regional, national and international arts organizations from all disciplines who have lost members.
SFGMC was founded in 1978 and made its first public performance at the City Hall vigil following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. It has inspired a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement.
For more information about Angels, including how to RSVP for the free streaming event on SFGMC TV, visit sfgmc.org/angels.
Another one of the great things to do in San Francisco at Night | Photo credits: Gooch
