Cream City Chorus

The Wisconsin Cream City Chorus, commonly known as the Cream City Chorus, was founded in Milwaukee on April 1, 1987, following a separation from the Fest City Singers. Created as a chorus for gay men, lesbians and their friends, the organization quickly established itself as an important part of Milwaukee’s LGBTQ cultural community. 

From its earliest days, Cream City Chorus used music to promote visibility, diversity, inclusion and community connection. While the chorus remained deeply connected to Milwaukee’s LGBTQ community, its mission eventually expanded to celebrate diversity in all its forms, welcoming people of different races, faiths, backgrounds and identities. 

The chorus was also notable for its member-controlled structure. Both singing and nonsinging members had a vote in decisions including board elections, the selection of artistic directors and the organization’s future direction. This democratic model reflected the chorus’s broader commitment to inclusion and community participation. 

Throughout its history, the chorus presented between two and four major concerts each year. Its programming included a winter concert, an April “Signs” concert featuring American Sign Language interpreters, and a June cabaret featuring soloists, ensembles and the full chorus. The organization also presented social events and bistro performances. 

Beyond its own concerts, Cream City Chorus brought its music and message to organizations and events throughout the Milwaukee area. The chorus performed for PrideFest Milwaukee, the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center, AIDS-related organizations, faith communities and civic events, as well as community celebrations such as Milwaukee's Martin Luther King Jr. and Christmas Tree Lighting celebrations.

The chorus’s smaller ensemble, The Creamettes, also performed at weddings, commitment ceremonies, memorial services, sporting events and other special occasions. Its performances included appearances connected to Barry Manilow’s Greatest Hits tour. 

In 2012, Cream City Chorus celebrated its 25th anniversary with a concert titled We Are One: Celebrating Diversity at Unitarian Universalist Church West. The April 1 anniversary performance featured music, guest speakers and special surprises, marking a quarter-century of using choral music to build community and celebrate difference. 

The anniversary celebration, however, was bittersweet. Cream City Chorus disbanded on June 16, 2012, citing declining membership and interest. 

Although the chorus ended after 25 years, its legacy extends beyond its final performance. The Wisconsin Cream City Chorus helped establish LGBTQ choral music and cultural expression in Milwaukee, creating opportunities for LGBTQ people and their allies to perform, connect and celebrate their community.  Today, groups like Our Voices Milwaukee and Women's Voices Milwaukee carry forward the tradition of Cream City Chorus.