The WVU Chamber Singers will present Considering Matthew Shepard at the Canady Creative Arts Center in Morgantown Saturday (April 23) at 7:30 p.m.
This semi-staged, multi-movement choral work composed by Craig Hella Johnson, and including the poetry of Lesléa Newman, offers a variety of musical styles and features soloists, a chamber orchestra, and spoken recitations.
Considering Matthew Shepard explores the story of Matthew Shepard, a young gay man from Laramie, Wyoming, whose brutal murder in 1998 became America’s most well-known hate crime.
In alignment with the goal of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, “to inspire individuals, organizations and communities to embrace the dignity and equality of all people,” a community mixer will be offered prior to the performance. This event will feature local performers, artwork and representatives from various local organizations.
“We encourage people to arrive early to enjoy the pre-performance activities on offer,” WVU’s Director of Choral Activities Kym Scott said. The community mixer will take place in the Lyell B. Clay Concert Theater lobby and will begin at 6 p.m.