MANSFIELD — This year the Fun Center Chordsmen celebrates 50 years of acapella singing in the community.
The Fun Center Chordsmen will perform in a special 50-year celebration event at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 23 at the new Lexington High School auditorium.
“We performed our first show in 1975 at Malabar High School,” said Dave Kracker, founding director of the Fun Center Chordsmen.
“In 1974, an ad ran in the Mansfield News Journal seeking interested singer and for the next 50 years the Chordsmen have spread their joy of singing at varied community events, especially those related to patriotic holidays.”
The Fun Center Chordsmen has been a certified chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society since the fall of 1974. At one point, the chorus consisted of 70-plus men.
They have performed an annual show, 38 of their 50 years at the Renaissance Theatre. One of their favorite programs has been held annually at Malabar Farm during the Christmas season.
Many quartets have formed from within the group, and they, too, have entertained at various venues. Every Valentine’s Day quartets travel within the community to bring smiles and tears to many women’s faces.
“Membership with this group has not required a man to know how to read music nor that he have an exceptional singing voice,” Kracker said. “He just needs to love singing and enjoy good camaraderie.
“We rehearse every Monday night at 7 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church on South Trimble Road. All are welcome.”
Trevor Garrabrant is the current director of the chorus, and is assisted by Jim Frye and Dave Kracker. Four former directors will also be directing a song each at the upcoming March 23 event.
Much historical paraphernalia will also be on display.
Tickets are $15 at the door for adults and $5 for children. For additional information contact Dave Kracker at 419-544-5395.