Love is all they need

The first 2009 performance by the Melbourne Gay and Lesbian Chorus (MGLC) also represents something of a homecoming for guest conductor Dr Kathleen McGuire, who has lived and worked in San Francisco since 2000.
McGuire recently returned to her hometown during long service leave from her role as the artistic director of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus.
-œI’d only been back a week or so when I heard that the [Melbourne] choir were sort of in between conductors. They heard I was here, and the rest is history, she told Southern Star.
-œIt’s fantastic to be back. My brother founded this group many years ago, and I had a bit to do with it back then, but it was hard because I was teaching at a Catholic girl’s school at the time. So now to be able to come back and do it very openly is a real thrill for me.
Joined by the Melbourne Gay and Lesbian Youth Chorus, on May 16 the MGLC will present Love Is All You Need -” A Beatles Tribute, with many of the band’s most popular songs interpreted in choral style. McGuire had previously used songs from the Beatles canon for choral performance during her time in San Francisco.
-œThey often say the mark of an excellent song is when you can adapt it easily to various styles, and I think history has shown that of the Beatles songs, she said.
And looking at the title of the show, Love Is All You Need, it would appear the chorus is using the opportunity to send a message about the current legislation of gay relationships.
-œThat’s right. Back in San Francisco, we’re really in the thick of things, with the whole -˜Now you’re married, now you’re not’ business, McGuire sighed.

info: Love Is All You Need, May 16, Darebin Arts Centre. Details: mglc.org.au