The Chelonia Art Concert had its first meeting of the year, explaining many different things and new opportunities that are now offered. Chelonia has been a staple at Beloit since the mid 70s, when it was founded by a former teacher, who taught the current director Gina T’ai. The concert itself will take place from April 22 to April 25 with undisclosed times. To participate students must submit a proposal by Sunday, Nov. 8 to Gina T’ai or send an email to T’ai to get the link. After proposals are through, auditions will begin Nov. 30 at 4:30 p.m. Participants will know what they were casted for that same night. The concert is open to a wide variety of skills with no prior experience required; all required knowledge will be taught by T’ai or by other former participants. On Nov. 17 at 4:30 p.m. there will be a makers meeting, allowing participants to share ideas that they have thought of. Students will get .25 credits for participating in this concert.
Some questions asked throughout were music-related, with one future participant asking when music pieces are required to be turned in. That date is Feb. 21, and submissions can be of virtually any genre. All students have to do is create a proposal and wait for confirmation.
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Gina and was able to ask her a few questions.She said she has been involved with Chelonia since 2009, having had to take last year off due to sabbatical. This will be her fifth time directing the concert. Her favorite part of Chelonia, she said, is “the compradore between everybody and the vast range between everyone who participates. It’s very inclusive and diverse.”
Chelonia is definitely something you should check out, whether you are participating or just watching yourself. It’s a great opportunity to get involved with campus without having to do a sport or a club on top of meeting a wide variety of people.
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