Heartland Men’s Chorus announces summer 2024 concert “Rise Up!”

In celebration of Pride Month, Kansas City’s Heartland Men’s Chorus has announced its 2024 summer concert, Rise Up!, on June 15 and 16 at the Folly Theater. Artistic director and conductor Shawn Cullen says the concert will feature songs pertaining to the theme of social justice — not just as it relates to the LGBTQ+ experience, but to topics like women’s rights, gun violence, and racial justice as well. 

Cullen calls the show both a “celebration of resilience” and a “call to action” for performers and audience members. He says the song selections — which range from John Legend to Stephen Sondheim — will bring attention to the progress made in the fight for equality and acceptance, while also acknowledging that this work is far from complete. The title of the concert was also chosen by Cullen to reflect these themes. 

“(Rise Up!) serves as a reminder that each of us has a role to play in rising above challenges and supporting one another in solidarity,” he says. 

Cullen says that music is an ideal way to convey these themes of resilience, empowerment, and solidarity because of its ability to communicate and connect with listeners nonverbally. In doing so, it fosters a sense of unity that written expression often cannot. 

“I believe that music has the ability to connect with people on an emotional level that transcends words,” he says. “A melody, a harmony, or a powerful lyric can stir emotions, providing comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging.” 

Rise Up! has been in rehearsal since April, which involves the costuming of almost 150 singers, along with the creation of set and lighting design that visually reflects the show’s themes. After many months of rehearsals, Cullen says he is excited for the show to illuminate timely social issues. 

“This show takes us back to the ‘why’ we do what we do,” he says. “This organization, like many LGBTQ+ performing arts organizations around the world, formed out of the need for us to use our voices to inspire change.” 

Rise Up! will be held June 15 at 7:30 p.m. and June 16 at 3:30 p.m. at C. Stephen Metzler Hall at The Folly Theater. Tickets for the show can be purchased here.