RICHMOND, Ky. — Eastern Kentucky University’s Choirs will share a public preview of their upcoming New York City program on Monday, March 2, with a 7:30 p.m. concert at Gifford Theatre in Richmond. The university lists the event as free admission, making it an easy weeknight option for Berea-area listeners who want to hear the ensembles before they head out on tour.
🌟 A World Premiere in Richmond
According to the choral program’s announcement, the evening will feature a significant debut. The choirs and the EKU Symphony Orchestra will present the world premiere of The Courage for Love, described as a 30-minute, five-movement work.
The concert is also labeled as a graduate conducting recital, meaning the podium duties may be shared over the course of the evening. The program is overseen by Dr. Richard Waters, EKU’s Director of Choral Activities.
🗽 The Road to Carnegie Hall
This concert serves as the local send-off before the choirs travel to New York City later in March 2026. According to EKU’s alumni campaign page, the tour will culminate in a performance of Elaine Hagenberg’s Illuminare at the legendary Carnegie Hall. Monday’s concert in Richmond is a chance for the local community to hear the group in peak form before they take the national stage.
🔗 Where to Read More
📅 UPCOMING EVENTS IN BEREA & BEYOND
Theater & Performance
- Disney’s The Lion King KIDS (Spotlight Playhouse) — Feb. 20–March 1
- Blazing Guns at Roaring Gulch (Spotlight Playhouse) — Feb. 22, 27–28 & March 1
- The Choir of Man (EKU Center) — Wed., Feb. 25 at 7:00 p.m.
- The Taming of the Shrew (Spotlight Playhouse) — March 6–15
Music & Concerts
- Convocation: “The Wisdom of Happiness” (Berea College) — Thurs., Feb. 19 at 8:00 p.m.
- “Dirt Pearls” Reception & Live Music (KY Guild) — Sat., Feb. 21 at 5:00 p.m.
- Louisville Orchestra “In Harmony” Tour — Wed., Feb. 25
- EKU Choirs NYC Preview Concert (Gifford Theatre) — Mon., March 2 at 7:30 p.m.
- Guest Piano Recital: Gregory Sioles (Berea College) — Tues., March 10 at 7:00 p.m.
Community Events
- Chili Night Out Fundraiser (Berea Arts Council) — Sat., Feb. 21 at 6:00 p.m.
- William Lee Martin: Comedy All In (One Eyed Jacks) — Sat., Feb. 21 at 8:00 p.m.
- FreeSkool: Herbs for Stress (HomeGrown HideAways) — Sun., Feb. 22 at 2:00 p.m.
- Catch the Leprechaun 5K (Berea Community High School) — Sun., March 1 at 9:00 a.m.