Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC) kicks off its 43rd season with Rhythm & Blues, a cabaret celebrating one of America’s most influential musical genres. Performances will take place Friday-Saturday, Sept. 25-26, at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. in Chicago.

From old-school favorites to more recent hits, Rhythm & Blues explores the music that has defined generations. The intimate cabaret features 26 CGMC performers backed by a live three-piece band. Audiences can expect familiar favorites throughout the evening, including a Motown medley, Destiny’s Child’s “Jumpin’, Jumpin’,” Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” and the party anthem “Celebration.”

“R&B has given us so much incredible music to work with, and its history is connected to expression and storytelling,” said CGMC Artistic Director James Morehead. “We wanted to bring together songs people know and love while showcasing the range of our performers.”

“Rhythm & Blues is the perfect way to kick off our 43rd season,” said CGMC Managing Director Kevin Corbett. “There’s something about this music that immediately connects with people. We want audiences to come to Center on Halsted, hear songs they recognize, discover a few surprises and have a great evening with us.”

Rhythm & Blues marks the beginning of CGMC’s 2026–27 season, which continues with Silver & Gold in December, Lipstick & Lyrics: Ebony & Ivory in March 2027 and Pink Pony Club in May 2027.

For more than four decades, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus has used music to entertain audiences while increasing LGBTQ+ visibility throughout Chicago and beyond. Through its performances and community engagement, CGMC continues its mission of creating musical experiences that celebrate queer voices and bring people together.

For tickets and additional information visit cgmc.org/cabaret.

WHEN/WHEREFriday, September 25, 2026 at 7pm and 9pm – Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60613Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 7pm and 9pm – Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60613TICKETS
Tickets range from $30 – $75 with additional per ticket fees. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit cgmc.org/cabaret.

ABOUT CHICAGO GAY MEN’S CHORUS
The Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC) has been an integral part of Chicago’s cultural and gay communities since 1983. For more than three decades, the chorus has entertained audiences across the continent with innovative musical programming exploring everything from love to politics to the sometimes fabulous, sometimes challenging world of being gay; often all at the same time. Our always-memorable performances have included original musical revues; full-length book musicals; traditional choral concerts and intimate cabaret presentations; all punctuated with our signature joyous irreverence. Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus was inducted into the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame in 2001. Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs presented CGMC with the 2023 award for Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities in honor of LGBTQIA+ history month in October 2023. The Chicago City Council passed a resolution celebrating CGMC’s 40th Anniversary in December 2023, and the Chorus was recognized by Mayor Brandon Johnson.