The Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus (“CGMC”) is thrilled to announce a collaboration with three other LGBTQIA+ choruses from Ohio for a special one-night concert called “Heart of Ohio.” The show is part of CGMC’s 35th concert season. CGMC will be performing alongside the North Coast Men’s Chorus (Cleveland), the Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus, and the Cincinnati Men’s Chorus on Saturday, March 22nd at the Davidson Theatre inside the Riffe Center in downtown Columbus.

“This concert isn’t just about music—it’s about visibility, unity, and the enduring strength of our communities in Ohio,” said Donovan Jones, Executive Director of CGMC. “No matter where you are in Ohio, you are not alone—our community is vibrant, our voices are strong, and we are here to uplift each other."

As harmful actions are being launched against members of the LGBTQIA+ community all over the country, members of Ohio's LGBTQIA+ family are coming together to raise their  voices in harmony to spread a powerful and positive message of hope, healing and acceptance. The advocacy of the concert will be underlined as it is emceed by drag artist Nina West, a Columbus native who has gained international notoriety due to multiple appearances on RuPaul’s Drag Race, productions on Broadway, appearances on Disney+, Hulu, Comedy Central and more.

Brayton Bollenbacher, Artistic Director for CGMC, says it is crucial for members of the LGBTQIA+ community to come together to support one another given the nation’s current political climate.

“During this time where so many Queer people are feeling isolated, it’s important that we remind ourselves and our community that we are not alone and how strong we are when we stand and sing with each other,” Bollenbacher said.

The other Choruses share CGMC’s thoughts about the importance of coming together. “This concert and the beautiful music that we will create represents a vital connection between our choruses that will serve to strengthen our individual missions as we head into a future where Queer people continue to be marginalized and legislated against,” said Shawn Belt, Member Advocate for North Coast Men's Chorus.

Bollenbacher says the “Heart of Ohio” concert expands on the experience CGMC and other LGBTQIA+ choruses from around the world had in Minneapolis during the 2024 GALA choral celebration. “I really thought it was important to build on our community experience we had at GALA last summer and wanted to continue the singing with sibling choruses by inviting the other Ohio TTBB choruses to join us for a concert,” Bollenbacher said.

Tickets and additional information about the “Heart of Ohio” concert and CGMC’s 35th season can be found at www.cgmc.com.