Gibraltar High School’s “Madrigal Evening”

The Gibraltar High School Senior Chorus performing in their annual Madrigal. Photo by Jane Hillstrom.

Hurrying inside Bjorklunden’s warmly lit entrance, on November 14, 15, or 16, one would of have been greeted by young persons in period tunics, some red and yellow, others blue and white, and led into a hall to await the Gibraltar’s Madrigal performance.

A procession of the senior choir members, dressed in brilliant, handmade costumes of greens, purples, golds, blues, and burgundys, filed onto the raised platforms and began their performance – a variety show in many respects.

The show was part choir concert, including distinct and difficult pieces such as “Die Nachtigall” by Felix Mendelssohn and “Carol of the Bells” by Peter Wilhousky, part theatrical performance, featuring a play-within-a-play as amateur actors attempted to perform a melodrama skit for the king – complete with cross-dressing and dancing, and part buffet. Between the musical pieces, guests were welcome to indulge in some ‘wassail’ provided by Seaquist Orchards, as well as appetizers and desserts proved by Top Shelf.

Interjected by a jester, played by impressively self-taught juggler, Ben McMahon, the evening was a delightful and humorous holiday occasion first-year choir director Lauren Gilmore says “went really well.” She went on to state that “being new to the school and doing something that had such a great tradition was really exciting and challenging, keeping things interesting while giving it a new twist.”

Currently, Gilmore and the choir are busying preparing for their Winter Concert, scheduled for December 22 at the Door Community Auditorium.