The Minot Chamber Chorale is anything but stuffy. They are also anything but an expensive night out. This is best exemplified by their free annual fall Pops Concert, this year titled "Broadway Sounds and More," which will be presented at the Grand International Inn at 7:30 p.m. Friday.
With more than 70 years of wonderful songs from musical theater, director Bob Demke is also adding songs just for fun.
"It adds some contrast," he said. "For instance, there's P.D.Q. Bach's 'Five Hands Piano,' where three of our members show their other musical talents besides singing. Audrey Hugulen, our regular pianist, is joined by Barb Nelson Schock and Linda Freeman on the piano, then the whole chorus joins them. There's also a spoof on a chorale medley, which is kind of interesting."
The core of the program is a solid medley from the Sound of Music, as well as an extensive Andrew Lloyd Webber medley which Demke says gives a strong insight into the man's character.
"After all, he's written shows that have over 10,000 performances on a Broadway stage," Demke said. "There are also pieces by Irving Berlin and Cole Porter, along with old stand-bys."
The concert is free and open to the public, with a freewill offering being accepted. A cash bar will be available to accompany munchies on the tables and the social hour begins at 6:30 p.m.
"During the intermission we'll have the popular 'Name that Tune,' where our members involve the audience in a quite enjoyable way," Demke added.