Photos by Drew Altizer Photography
The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus held its annual Crescendo gala this past weekend, drawing hundreds of supporters, community leaders, and music lovers together for an unforgettable evening of purpose and performance. Held at the Westin St. Francis Hotel, the event served as a vibrant celebration of the chorus’ ongoing mission: to inspire activism, foster compassion, and build community through the power of song.
Honorees included Sheryl Lee Ralph and Angelica Ross, along with host Nina West and special guests Honey Mahogany. CEO Chris Verdugo and artistic director Jacob Stensberg kicked the evening off with a Wicked-inspired take on the theme “The Power of Us,” followed by several performances from the chorus.
Co-chairs Sally Kay and Bryan Catanazato ensured the audience knew how important this night was to encourage generosity when auctioneer Michael Tate took the floor. Dignitaries who attended included Mayor Daniel Laurie, Senator Scott Wiener, and President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, Rafael Mandelman. Also in attendance were Terrence D. Chan and Edward Sell, Greg Sarris and Lana Rivera, and so many others who enjoyed the seated dinner and dessert, and after-party with DJ Livv.
The chorus raised a record-breaking $1,394,200 to support SFGMC’s main stage concerts, the Chan National Queer Arts Center, and RHYTHM (Reaching Youth Through Music). Additional photos and information may be found at https://bit.ly/3G2hY2D
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Published on April 10, 2025
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