KSHB 41 reporter Olivia Acree covers portions of Johnson County, Kansas. Share your story idea with Olivia.
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The Heartland Men’s Chorus is taking the stage across the Midwest this Pride Month. For the singers in this choir, the most powerful part of the performance is the message.
“Finding an organization like this made me feel more comfortable in my skin," said Christopher Roberts, Heartland Men’s Chorus member.
The chorus has been around for decades, but what the members represent goes far beyond the songs they sing.
“Living authentically, like being who I actually am,” said Benji Crowe, Heartland Men’s Chorus member.
Shawn Cullen, chorus artistic director, said the group formed out of necessity during the AIDS epidemic.
“We now are able to be more authentic who we are, instead of what it was like in 1986 when half of our singers couldn't even put their names in the programs," Cullen said.
Around 150 men have proudly filled the risers throughout June as they've taken their music and mission on tour.
“When the Heartland Men’s Chorus rolls into town, it creates a safe space for people, whether they have a robust LGBTQ community or not,” Cullen said.
Roberts said every opportunity to sing is a chance to tell a story.
“These stories are of grit, of resilience, of challenge, of struggle. But overall, we're trying to help people experience a little bit of joy,” Cullen said.
While on tour, Crowe got a reminder of his own story.
“I didn't realize it until we got there, but we were actually singing at the church that I used to rehearse at in 2005,” Crowe said. “It was such a homecoming moment.”
He explained how his life had changed since his early memories of that church.
“Well, I mean, for one thing, I was a little girl,” Crowe said.“I just keep having this thought that if she would have met me, like she would have been obsessed… I have definitely, I've made her proud with all of this. I know for sure I have.”
As people listen to the choir, Roberts and Crowe hope they hear one thing.
“You will find your tribe. And if you can't find your tribe, this can be your tribe,” Roberts said.
Crowe said the chorus is "so ready" for anyone who wants to join.
The chorus has a few more performances across the Midwest this month.
- Saturday, June 21, at 3 p.m., First Christian Church, St. Joseph, MO
- Sunday, June 22, at 2 p.m., First United Methodist Church, Wichita, KS
- Saturday, June 28, at 7:30 p.m., Yardley Hall (JCCC), Overland Park, KS
- Sunday, June 28, at 3:30 p.m., Yardley Hall (JCCC), Overland Park, KS
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