FOCUS: The Sound of Charleston resumes shows after hiatus

Ann Caldwell belts out a tune during The Sound of Charleston. Photo provided.

Staff reports  |  The Sound of Charleston, the region’s longest-running musical production, will resume weekly shows at Circular Congregational Church at 7 p.m. Sept. 4. 

With more than 500 concerts since 2010, the show highlights the Lowcountry’s rich musical history from gospel spirituals and jazz to the music of George Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess” and light classics of the venerable St. Cecilia Society. During December’s six Holiday Editions, music of the season is added to the show.

After almost a year and a half with no shows, producer Bill Perry said he was excited but nervous about shows in the months ahead:  “Nervous about whether audiences will return to indoor venues and whether we can ensure safety of our audiences and cast members.”

He said the show would follow COVID-19 protocols established by the city and church.

“All audience members will be required to wear masks,” Perry said.  “The church has arranged seating for their services so there  is good social distancing and we will use that seating plan, resulting in reduced (50 percent) but safer seating capacity. Hand sanitation stations will be available throughout the church.” 

The show is narrated by host Bill Schlitt, who introduces each set with a brief historical context of the music. Of special significance is the closing of every show with “Amazing Grace,” sung by the cast. Composer John Newton worshipped for a number of weeks at what is now Circular Congregational Church during which time he received inspiration that he later drew on back home in England to write perhaps the world’s favorite hymn.

The Sound of Charleston has consistently received high ratings on the travel site Trip Advisor and has been proclaimed “the best night out in the city” by the prestigious Frommer’s travel guide.

A full schedule of generally weekly fall performances is online at www.soundofcharleston.com. Tickets are $28 for adults, $26 for seniors and $16 for students.  Children under 7 are free.  Tickets can be purchased online, at any Charleston Visitor Center or by calling 843.270.4903.

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