Bobby McFerrin & Gimme5: Circlesongs

Chan Centre for the Performing Arts, 6265 Crescent Rd., Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1

Bobby McFerrin is a virtuoso of the human voice. Amongst soaring melodies and rich harmonies, he uses percussive vocal effects, invented language, prayer, wacky noises, and more—all delivered with poise, flair, and most of all, joy. In this exhilarating musical escapade, the singer takes the stage with members of his group Voicestra. Together they lead Circlesongs, a series of choral pieces based on grooves that are freshly composed each night and sung by an ensemble of 12 local singers—and sometimes the whole crowd. “I want to bring audiences into the incredible feeling of freedom I get when I sing,” says McFerrin. “I want everyone to leave the theatre and sing in their own kitchens the next morning.”

A cappella singers, beatboxers, and vocalists of all genres have cited Bobby McFerrin as an inspiration. A winner of 10 Grammy Awards, he is celebrated in jazz and classical circles for his innovations and spectacular technique. His solo performances are legendary—as are his collaborations with artists like Yo-Yo Ma and Herbie Hancock. In this rare visit to Vancouver, he offers audiences an invitation to join the circle and sing along.