What: The first upstate NY performance of Dan Forrest’s greatest work with full orchestra!

The Cantata Singers are proud to present Dan Forrest’s Creation as a gift to our community. Join to hear (or to sing with) a massive choir, full orchestra, bell choir, and soloists for in this monumental performance the historic Powers Theater at Elmira’s Clemens Center.

When: Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 4:00 pm

Where: The Clemens Center, Elmira, NY.

Admission: FREE

Join the performance

• As an audience member: No tickets required. Doors to the auditorium open at 3:30 pm.
• As a singer: Be part of the largest choir to bring this masterpiece to Upstate New York. Register using the form below.

Singer Requirements:

• Singers provide their own copy of Creation, available through JW Pepper or directly from Beckenhorst Press.
• Singers attend required rehearsals Friday, May 22, and Saturday, May 23.

Rehearsal and Performance Schedule::

Friday, May 22 -

6:15 pm - Rehearsal call time
6:30 pm - 9:00 pm - Rehearsal with orchestra

Saturday, May 23 -

12:45 pm - Dress Rehearsal call time
1:00 - 2:30 pm Dress Rehearsal
3:30 pm: Performance call time
4:00 - 5:15 pm: Performance!

Additional Rehearsals (in person or via Zoom)

Sundays, May 3, 10, & 17, 6 - 8:30 pm

In person rehearsals are in St Matthew’s Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 408 S. Main Street, Horseheads, NY. The Zoom link will be provided by request. Email cantatasingers@ymail.com for the link at least 48 hours prior to the rehearsal.

Frequently asked questions:

  • There is no fee to participate - all you will need to do is provide your own copy of Creation(purchase here or here)

  • Individuals will need to sign up by May 1st. However, we encourage singers to sign up as early as possible in order to receive update emails as the event gets closer. We understand that the best of plans can change, so if you sign up and need to back out, just send us an email.

  • There are two rehearsals you will need to attend the weekend of the celebration:

    Friday, May 22, 6:30-9 PM
    Saturday, May 23, 1:00-2:30 PM (this is ahead of the 4:00 PM performance)

    Additionally, singers may attend any of these additional rehearsals:

    Sundays, May 3, 10, and 17, 6 - 8:30pm either in person or virtually via Zoom; email cantatasingers.com at least 48 hours ahead for the Zoom link

  • Absolutely! Just email grace@cantatasingers.com to inquire further.

  • No! If you love singing, and want to join with your community to sing this magnificent and jubilant choral work, you have all of the qualifications you need!