After weeks of practicing in the corners of the CFAC, gathering music, selecting parts and finding accompanists, Women’s Chorale came together to present two stunning performances of Date Night with Women’s Chorale on Friday, March 4.

The first show quickly sold out, with audience members lined up outside the door to get good seats. Cheers and excitement filled the Recital Hall as the first act entered the stage.  The opening song, “OctaHate,” reverberated through the space, drawing the audience into the breathtaking performance.

The concert proceeded with an hour of fun, laughter, cheering and music. This music included mashups of popular radio music such as “Love Yourself” by Justin Bieber, “Out of the Woods” by Taylor Swift, “Ophelia” by the Lumineers, “Apologize” by OneRepublic and more.

One of the crowd favorites, however, was “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” from “Fiddler on the Roof.” The crowd was surprised by the playful tone of the song, and when other Women’s Chorale members came onstage with fake moustaches and goofy acting parts, the crowd roared with laughter.

This conglomerate of musical styles and group sizes helped create proper diversity and interest. Mandi Simmons, a former Women’s Chorale member, said that her personal favorite was “Hide and Seek” done by Emma DeWitt, Katelyn DenBesten, Katie Sarb and Emily Crow.

“That type of song a cappella typically requires eight people, and they did it with four,” Simmons remarked. “Harmonies were spot on and they traded melodies. It was cool for the listener to have to follow the melody weaving in and out.” Overall, she said, “you can tell the girls put so much work into all of the acts. I loved the energy and musical professionalism.”

As the show was only slightly over one hour long, the full group pieces “Sorry/Apologize” and “Send My Love” left the audience wanting more. Despite the lighthearted, easygoing and fun feel of the concert, Mikaela Deur, social event coordinator and member of Women’s Chorale, offers insight on all the work put in by the choristers.

“We were worried that there wouldn’t be enough acts to fill the show, but the girls really stepped up to the plate,” Mikaela said. “There are a lot of first years in Women’s this year, so it was exciting to see the fresh ideas that they brought to the table.”

Through their work, ticket sales contribute toward their upcoming tour to Chicago on April 7-10.