Curtains for NYC Gay Men's Chorus?

After many years of breaking down barriers, the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus might be singing its last opus, the group announced today, as an economic downturn threatens its 30th anniversary, potentially shutting its doors.

“Decreasing donations, limited resources, and the rising costs of production make it more difficult than ever for a community arts organization to survive,” Rick Clodfelter, chairman of the Board of Big Apple Performing Arts, the umbrella organization for the NYCGMC, the Youth Pride Chorus, and Uptown Express, said in a release.

The chorus has drastically reduced expenses, and has also unleashed a public awareness campaign in the hopes of continuing on with its upcoming season by soliciting funds from the community, celebrities, LGBT leaders, and elected officials. As well, over 200 members are raising money through pledges and various social networking websites.

“Our goal is to raise $500,000 to enable us to retire debt, proceed with our 30th season, and ensure we are better positioned to advocate for equality in the future,” Clodfelter said.

The organization, founded in 1979, has produced legendary performances as well as innovative programs for the LGBT community in areas including HIV/AIDS services, marriage equality advocacy, youth support, and more. They have performed with the American Symphony Orchestra and Broadway icons such as Liza Minnelli, Stephen Sondheim and Eartha Kitt, and have been featured in various television specials.

NYCGMC was also the first gay chorus to perform in Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center, and the first to have a recording contract with a major label, producing eight discs.

“At a time when LGBT visibility wasn’t as prevalent as it is today, the chorus provided an opportunity for New Yorkers to see out, proud gay men onstage,” Clodfelter said. “Today that seems commonplace, but 30 years ago, it was revolutionary.”

Charles Beale, artistic director of NYCGMC, adds that marriage equality and other civil rights issues are brought to public discussion through the chorus’s performances. “We put a face on those issues. We sincerely hope the community will help us continue to sing proudly, touch hearts, and change lives through music for a long time to come.”