The Hickory Tree Chorus had been planning its big budget
December 1 show for a year. The 50-voice
women’s a cappella chorus was awarded 2nd place medals by Sweet
Adelines International for its 15-minute New Jersey-themed show package at last
year’s international mid-sized chorus contest, and knew it would translate well
into a full-length show.
The show was named “Jersey Bounce” after the featured, swinging
1940’s up-tune. Members learned new, Jersey-themed songs arranged especially
for the show by its Master Director and Master Music Arranger, Carolyn Schmidt
– songs by Jersey girls Whitney Houston and Dionne Warwick, songs about
Atlantic City and Cape May, and more. The
show would even feature special guest Miss New Jersey 2012, Lindsey Petrosh!
Then, Hurricane Sandy hit, knocking out power, damaging
homes –and worse. The chorus leadership
struggled with whether or not it was the right time to go on with the celebratory
New Jersey show, now made poignant by the destruction. Members were still
without power. Some had damaged homes. One was making funeral arrangements.
But as communications improved, it became apparent that
members longed to get back to the camaraderie of its weekly rehearsals in
Basking Ridge, which had been canceled for two consecutive weeks. They needed to be together to give and get
support. And they wanted to extend that
sentiment to others.
The decision was made to go on with the show, re-name it
“Jersey Bounces Back” and partner with the Community Food Bank and the
Hurricane Sandy New Jersey Relief Fund, giving audience members the opportunity
to contribute to the state’s recovery.
“Jersey Bounces Back” will be presented Saturday, December
1, two shows at 3:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., at West Morris Mendham High School, 65
Main Street, Mendham, NJ. In addition to Hickory Tree Chorus and Miss New
Jersey 2012, guests include Frank the Dog (Barbershop Harmony Society’s 2013
Mid-Atlantic District Quartet Champion), and student a cappella groups from
West Morris Mendham High School.
Tickets are priced $20 (adults), $18 (seniors 62+), $10
(children 12 and under). All seats are
reserved and +$2 at the door. Contact Jeannie at 973-822-0798 or
tickets@hickorytreechorus.org.
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