You might say it began with one man’s dream. Legendary Pekin High School Choral Director Harry Langley organized the Pekin Orchestra and Choral Society in 1953, with dreams of it becoming a successful adult music group. Little did he know that his group would become a 90-member Pekin Civic Chorus (PCC) performing for sold-out crowds over multiple nights!  

Fast forward through seven decades of entertaining audiences with everything from Broadway’s greatest hits, to show-stopping musicals, and some of the most popular songs of the day. “Over the years, PCC has appealed to all types of people from many backgrounds and with a love of singing, dancing and fellowship,” said Jess Wallis, current president of the PCC Board of Directors. “It’s how we’ve been able to keep doing this for so many years.” 

For 70+ years, talented amateurs from Pekin and the surrounding area have given their time and talent to entertaining people in our community by presenting a musical variety show. The proceeds from our performances support the arts and other non-profits. We are proud to have given monetary support of over $250,000 to these local organizations. PCC is comprised of 60–80 adults of all ages who enjoy singing and dancing to appreciative audiences that typically number around 2,000 people for its performances.

This year’s group – known as the Pekin Civic ‘Bicentennial’ Chorus – is performing its upcoming show, “Singing With the Stars,” held in conjunction with the Pekin Bicentennial celebration throughout 2024. PCC will be the highlighted event for the month of June during its shows, held at the F.M. Peterson Theater on the campus of Pekin Community High School.

“This is a once in a lifetime chance to help Pekin celebrate 200 years!” said Debbie Mahoney, show producer and PCC board member.

The 2024 show is called “Singing With the Stars!” and will be filled with a variety of classic songs from many of your favorite artists throughout the decades including the Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Elton John, Frankie Valli, John Legend, Tina Turner, and Broadway legends. The show is under the direction of Dr. Jim Rimington, an Emeritus Professor of Music Education and Voice at Bradley University and currently the Director of Music at Pekin Grace Methodist Church in Pekin. 

“Not only is the music going to be fantastic but the audience will be treated to some surprises during the show,” said Mahoney. “In addition to this great mix of songs, people will experience laughter and probably some tears too.”

Singing With the Stars! will be performed over 4 days at the PCHS theater starting in late May and ending in early June. Here is the show schedule, and we hope to see you there!

Thursday, May 30 @ 7 p.m.

Friday, May 31 @ 7 p.m.

Saturday, June 1 @ 7 p.m.

Sunday, June 2 @ 3 p.m.

For ticket information and to purchase seats for this special bicentennial event, please go to the Pekin Civic Chorus website.