Drive-In Dreams Concert brings live music back to Naperville June 6
After over a year of canceled concerts, postponed performances, and events with uncertain timelines, the Naperville Men's Glee Club (NMGC) is bringing a sense of normalcy back to the community. The four-part all male singing group has been delighting audiences in and around Chicago as well as national crowds at Lincoln Center in New York City and Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. for over 30 years. In June, the group will host its "Drive-In Dreams Concert," to bring the joy of music to Naperville once again.
"We are excited about our 'Drive-In Dreams Concert' which is our dream concert for re-entry to live performance following a year of many virtual performances due to the pandemic," said Richard Ryan, Tenor 1 and marketing director for NMGC.
The concert is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 6, in the parking lot of Community Christian Church, also known as "Yellow Box Church" at Ogden Avenue and Rickert Drive in Naperville. The concert is a safe and socially distanced event that gives audience members the opportunity to view and listen from the safety of their vehicles or set up lawn chairs in a specially designated area. Those opting to enjoy the music from their cars can listen to a simulcast on FM radio. Concertgoers will surely recognize many songs the group is slated to perform, including "The James Bond Theme," "Over the Rainbow," "A Star is Born," and many other wonderful musical selections.
After a tough year for all, Ryan said the group members, who range in age from 20 to 80, are ready to return to live concerts. Thanks to NMGC's talented director, Dr. John Rakes, the group has maintained its performance chops through virtual performances and socially distanced rehearsals in the Warrenville Parking Garage.
Not only did COVID impact rehearsal schedules and performances, but it also impacted funding for the arts as well. Ryan said they're especially grateful for supporters like Gerald Nissan of Naperville, which help the group put on events like the upcoming concert.
"Gerald Auto is one of our loyal local sponsors, without which we could not survive. We appreciate their advertising in our program each year and efforts like this, supporting our Drive-In Dreams Concert," said Ryan.
As a longtime supporter of the arts and local programs, Gerald is pleased to continue supporting the NMGC. The dealership embraces local organizations that help bring the community together, especially during these uncertain and stressful times.
"Giving back to our customers and the community allows Gerald to thank them for all the support we've received. Giving back to the Naperville Men's Glee Club is especially fulfilling, given that we have not been able to appreciate live performances over the last 15 months," said Deen Collins, a Partner of Gerald Auto Group. "We are thrilled to help bring music to Naperville once again."
The NMGC is featuring a special per car ticket price of $20 and is also asking that audience members bring a nonperishable food item with them to donate to a local food pantry. For more information on NMGC and the "Drive-In Dreams Concert," visit www.nmgc.org. For more on Gerald Nissan of Naperville, visit www.geraldnissannaperville.com.