You’ve heard of pop-up choirs in malls, hospital lobbies and back alleys? Criselda Mierau, artistic director of Acting Out Musical Theatre, is hosting a different sort of pop-up choir.
In her premiere pop-up chorus with So Noted choir, she’s inviting anyone from the community who enjoys singing to belt out a night of ABBA songs on Tuesday, Nov. 14 at St. Albert Catholic High School.
“It’s an opportunity for people to simply come out for one night and sing something they love without committing to a full set of rehearsals or to a formal show or concert,” said Mierau. “This allows my singers and anyone else who enjoys singing to engage in a different way.”
The evening starts with warm-up voice exercises followed by sheet music distribution. Mierau has selected seven Mamma Mia songs including Dancing Queen, SOS, Take a Chance, Waterloo and I Have a Dream. Parts will be assigned for a casual rehearsal prior to a performance.
“We’ll record a video of our mini performance of songs near the end of the evening and pop it up on our Facebook page for everyone to enjoy.”
To inject additional spontaneity into the evening, singers are encouraged to dress up. Prizes will be handed out for the best 70s-era costumes.
“We’re handing out Pop Rocks, heart-shaped sunglasses, and a couple of surprise items. And we’re developing a photo booth for that over-the-top 70s experience. Midway through our evening, we’re serving cupcakes created by Calista Kuntz, an up-and-coming local baker.”
If successful, Mierau hopes to organize a pop-up a Hallelujah chorus of Handel’s Messiah at Christmas and an Irish sing-along in March.
“This kind of an event allows everybody, whether they sing in the shower or with a music stand, to come out and have fun. Everyone is excited and I’m hoping this takes off.”
The mini-concert runs from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. There is a $20 charge to cover expenses. Register for the event at www.aomt.ca
