Choir sings to help refugees

By 
 on May 6, 2017

St. John’s Refugee Sponsorship Committee in St. Catharines is staging a full concert performance by the Hamilton-based ArcelorMittal Dofasco Male Voice Choir.

It’s the brainchild of committee chair Barb Butts. “I’m just thrilled to get this support. They rank with the leading male voice choirs in Canada and will have 50 voices on stage for two hours of top-class choral entertainment. This will be a great boost for our fundraising.”

When St. John’s began its refugee initiative in January 2016, it invited participation from the broader community. It’s proven a positive move. While the initial goal of $30,000 seemed astronomical, that amount has been reached.

“The heartbeat of this community is its generosity,” shared Rector Laura Marie Piotrowicz. By extending the challenge, “We hope to help cover the travel costs, so that when our new friends arrive they will not be burdened with that debt. This concert will be a significant help.”

The choir is renowned for its wide repertoire ranging from sacred to folk music and on to classical and Broadway favorites.

Formed in 1946, it has presented concerts across Canada and the United States and lists dozens of television shows among its credits.

The Choir has a great reputation for community work through performances aiding not-for-profit groups.

Demonstrating community cooperation, the concert will take place on Monday, May 15 at 7.30 p.m. in Bethany Community Church, 1388 Third Street, St. Catharines. The facilities have a good sized hall with great acoustics and sight lines, comfortable seats and ample parking.

Tickets ($12) are available from St. John’s at 905-935-6021 or [email protected]

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