Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles kicked off their season with the first of six themed performances honoring the legacy of the Stonewall Riots last Saturday, Oct. 13.
The "Love and Marriage" show by the Jazz Orchestra covered classic songs like "Fly Me to The Moon," "Besame Mucho" and Stevie Wonder's "Isn't She Lovely" ( although the last song was one Wonder wrote to celebrate the birth of his daughter ).
Every song had a special meaning to the couples involved with the ensemble. Between each song, orchestra members brought their partners to the stage and told their wedding stories. Trombonist Eric West and wife Natalia talked about learning their dance ( with an impromptu performance in the aisles ), while Development Officer Chuck Malm and orchestra band leader Scott Malinowski reread their wedding vows. Audience members were invited onto the stage to share their own stories.
A playful encore of Justin Timberlake's "Suit and Tie" rounded out the performance.
Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles will be performing five more themed shows from now until June 1, 2019, on the eve of the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots.
Find tickets and more information at lakesidepride.org/season/ .