Kristin Chenoweth and Adam Rippon to be Honored by the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus at the 41st Season Crescendo Gala

The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) today announced the honorees for their annual Crescendo Gala being held on April 27 at the Fairmont San Francisco. Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth will be honored with the Vanguard Award and Olympic medalist in figure skating Adam Rippon with the Trailblazer Award. Zendesk will receive this year’s Corporate Champion Award for their commitment to LGBTQ global equality.

Chenoweth has spent her offstage career as pioneer for human rights as a vocal supporter of LGBTQ equality while giving back to the community in countless ways. Bringing greater visibility to LGBTQ athletes, Rippon uses his platform to speak out in support of LGBTQ rights and the freedom to be oneself.

“God gave me a voice powerful enough to show the world how important it is to love each other,” said Kristin Chenoweth. “Music unifies us, art brings us together, and that’s a fact. I have fought for this community, and this Vanguard Award will only strengthen me for battle as I continue to fight because I’m not stopping anytime soon. No matter your gender, no matter who you love, no matter what color of the rainbow you are, love is love is love is love.”

"I have always felt an obligation to use my voice to support those that are not heard” said Adam Rippon. "To be recognized for my advocacy work is truly an honor, especially by such a prestigious group as SFGMC who have been using their voices to champion so many causes for years. Plus, I get to share a stage with Kristin so it’s a win/win all around.”

Funds raised at this year’s gala will support two youth-oriented programs, RHYTHM: Reaching Youth Through Music and It Gets Better. SFGMC launched the youth education program RHYTHM last year to bring a message of anti-bullying and acceptance through music, personal stories and experiences. In 2019 SFGMC will work in collaboration with the It Gets Better Project and Speak Theater Arts to launch a It Gets Better Tour, whose core mission to reduce suicide amongst LGBTQ youth. Through the power of music, both programs encourage LGBTQ youth to live authentically and celebrate their uniqueness.

“We are privileged to recognize this year’s honorees for their commitment to uplifting and empowering the LGBTQ community, especially queer youth. Each one is an inspiration in their own right, using their platforms to speak truth to power while spreading a message of love, positivity and community,” said Chris Verdugo, Executive Director.