Mahoney said this year’s show, appearing May 28-31 on stage at the F. M. Peterson Theater at Pekin Community High School, will take the audience on a musical journey around the world, with more elaborate costumes, more dancing, and more choreography than ever. And that’s saying something, considering the Civic Chorus has been making music since 1953.

In addition to songs by ABBA, Queen, Michael Bublé, Elton John, and many other international stars, Vocalympics will feature numbers from Broadway shows set in other countries, American tunes like The Devil Went Down to Georgia and New York, New York, music from the band Chicago, and what Mahoney calls “sneak surprises.”

These are appearances by other talented and memorable musical groups from the area. In addition to performing two songs with the Pekin Civic Chorus, one of four “youthful” groups will sing during the intermission each night. They include the Georgetown Singing Tigers from Georgetown Middle School in Marquette Heights (appearing May 28); the Broadmoor Choir from Broadmoor Junior High in Pekin, directed by Dedra Baker (appearing May 29); PAPA’s Vocal Velocity, also directed by Dedra Baker (appearing May 30); and Notables: Past & Present, a new group featuring alumni and current members from the 50-year-old PCHS vocal ensemble (appearing May 31). This will be one of the Notables’ final appearances.

(Jimmy) Markum’s New Vintage Band will provide accompaniment for the Civic Chorus and throughout the show, including pre-show and intermission. 

Pianist Leah Smith is set to provide accompaniment for the vocal performers. Costumes are by Leslie Book, and choreography is by Liz Waldschmidt.

Founded by Harry Langley, who served as director for more than 30 years, the Pekin Civic Chorus has been producing local performances and supporting the arts for 73 years. The current director, Dr. James Rimington, has held the post since 2024. Dr. Rimington is a retiree professor of music education and voice at Bradley University who has taught music at all grade levels and higher education.

“He is fabulous,” said Mahoney. “He feels and understands music, he is wonderful with people, and the chorus loves him.”

The 75 members of the Pekin Civic Chorus have been practicing since January, with a twice-weekly schedule starting in March. Members are from throughout the region and range in age from 18 to 70+. Mahoney said new members are always welcome.

“It’s about more than just singing,” she said. “There are also deep emotional connections between the singers.”

As a nonprofit, the Pekin Civic Chorus relies on community support to keep the art of vocal performance flourishing in central Illinois. Generous sponsorships and program advertisers are a major revenue source, as are Patrons, who donate up to $500 above and beyond their ticket price of $30. Depending on the level, Patrons may receive exclusive seating, their name(s) in the show program, complimentary tickets, and the satisfaction of knowing they are true patrons of the arts in Pekin. 

Part of the Pekin Civic Chorus mission is to “give back to the community through recognition and financial donations.” To this end, more than $270,000 has been donated since the group’s inception, including the purchase of pianos, risers, and choral chairs for Pekin schools, and money toward lighting in the PCHS theater. The annual Norma I. Yock Scholarship offers funds to a local student pursuing a college education in music.

The Pekin Civic Chorus performs Vocalympics: The Whole World Sings, May 28-30 at 7 p.m., with a matinee on May 31 at 2 p.m. All performances are at the Pekin Community High School theater, 320 Stadium Dr. General admission tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at https://zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/pekin-civic-chorus - - 2026. Email Connie Sutton at [email protected] for details on the Patron program. For the most up-to-date information and announcements, follow the Pekin Civic Chorus on Facebook.