Performing Arts Series presents "It Gets Better" by the Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles Nov. 16

The Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angles will perform “It Gets Better” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, in Hall Auditorium.  The event is part of the Miami University Performing Arts Series.

The It Gets Better Project was founded in 2010, when a single video posted on the Internet to offer hope to young people struggling with their sexuality inspired a world-wide sensation. Today, the mission of the It Gets Better Project is to communicate to LGBT youth around the world that “it gets better,” and to help effect the changes necessary to make it so.

The It Gets Better Project collaborated with the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles to bring the “it gets better” message to the stage, with the first performance in Oct. 2012.

The live performance shares this message of hope, “a rousing response to bullying delivered through the dynamic musical energy” of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles and a community chorus, according to the It Gets Better Project.

posterThe Oxford/Miami community chorus, directed by Jeremy Jones, assistant professor of music and conductor of the Men’s Glee Club and Collegiate Chorale, will join the GMCLA on the songs “45 Degrees” and “More Friends Than You Know.”

Power of musical performance and community engagement

One of the goals of the community chorus is to use the power of musical performance and community engagement to shine a light on the issues of bullying and sexuality. 

A week-long series of events in the Oxford/Miami community and Talawanda School District will be held  - coordinated with the It Gets Better Project and the GMCLA – geared toward making the community a safer place for LGBT youth and adults.

Events include a Facilitated Community Dialogue 11 a.m. -1 p.m. Nov. 14 (call the United Way office at 523-0991 to reserve a place) at the Oxford Community Arts Center; a performance and Facilitated Dialogue at Talawanda High School; and community chorus rehearsals.

Tickets, $9 students, $17 seniors and $18 general, are available at the Box Office in Shriver Center.

“It Gets Better” is presented by the Performing Arts Series and is sponsored by the Center for American and World Cultures, Kona Bistro and Jim and Kathy Squance.