Then and Now: Glee Club/Show Choir
by Lauren Putbrese ’16
Show choir is the newest craze at McKendree University. In the inaugural year for
the show choir program, the spring performance “Marilyn” had two sold-out shows at
the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. However, the show choir program is not the first of its kind at McKendree.
Pauline Harper organized a men’s and women’s Glee Club in 1924. These groups performed
all over southern Illinois and typically joined together for a final performance in
the spring semester.
The purpose of the Women’s Glee Club according to the 1938 yearbook was, “To stimulate
and develop musical ability among those college women who are interested in music.”
Current director Adam Pulver brought tremendous show choir experience when he joined
the McKendree staff. From judging the Show Choir Nationals, to hosting a regional
competition at McKendree during April, Adam has quickly helped McKendree's show choir
program build an excellent reputation.
Over 50 students are involved with the program, many of whom receive scholarships
for their participation. When asked about his vision for the future of the show choir
Adam said, “I envision a well-respected and highly admired program. I look forward
to the day when students from all over the world seek out this program as a means
to better themselves as a performer, young adult and leader. I envision creating the
top collegiate show choir.”
