New Mexico Gay Men’s Chorus celebrates Pride with Elton John tribute

Get ready for a heartfelt tribute to Elton John as the New Mexico Gay Men’s Chorus presents “We’re Still Standing,” a vibrant celebration of the artist’s beloved hits.

The New Mexico Gay Men’s Chorus knew they wanted to celebrate Pride month with a performance that would honor queer legends.

“It’s kind of pretty typical that LGBT choruses will occasionally dedicate an entire concert to a band or an artist that we identify with,” Aaron Howe, artistic director of the show, said. “He wrote and recorded many songs, so there’s no way we can do all of them, but we’re trying to do as many of the hits as we possibly can.”

As artistic director, it was Howe’s job to narrow down Elton John’s discography to just two hours worth of performances. The event will highlight classics like “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” and “Crocodile Rock,” along with other Elton John works like “Aida.”

The performances will be broken up into smaller groups with soloists, duets and backup singers, along with accompaniment by a band. The chorus will also bring in dancers to accompany singers on stage to “liven up the place,” Howe said.

“People who haven’t seen NMGMC don’t know that we do more than singing,” Howe said. “It’s like a story and a live band experience. We like to put on a fun show with lots of elements.”

Though the chorus is composed mainly of gay men, Howe said all are welcome to join the group regardless of gender or sexuality. Though the name will stay the same to remind people of the history of the group, he said in recent years the group has expanded to include all who want to join NMGMC on their mission to spread queer culture throughout the city.

“It’s important to elevate queer artists and make sure that people know how important gay people are to society,” Howe said. “It’s very important that we continue to be out there, being ourselves, singing, celebrating our culture, our music, our lives, and allowing other people to celebrate that with us.”

“We’re Still Standing” will come to The Lensic Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 20; and to Popejoy Hall on the University of New Mexico campus at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 21, and 2 p.m. Sunday, June 22.

New Mexico Gay Men’s Chorus celebrates Pride with Elton John tribute