Date: February 20, 2013
by: Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

Chorus of the Keys is a barbershop quartet-style singing ensemble.

Comedian Kent Perry is a 37-year old six-year Chorus of the Keys member. He gives us the scoop about the group’s annual show and fundraiser. Perry will put on a comedy routine starring as Casey Kasem counting down the hottest tracks from the past decades.The routine will feature facts about the bands and songs and will even include a long-distance dedication.

What should someone who’s not familiar with Chorus of the Keys know about the group? What’s the deal?
The Sarasota Chorus of the Keys is Sarasota’s longest continually active arts group ... that has been singing barbershop quartet for 63 years. It’s a men’s chorus with about 50 year-round members.

And how will this “No. 1 Hits” show be different from previous concerts?
A: It’s a departure from our previous shows ... I told them, ‘If you want younger members, sing songs they like.’ And that’s not necessarily ‘Sweet Adeline.’ It’s all come together and now we are doing No. 1 hits from the ’50s through the ’90s in a barbershop-quartet style.

And tell us about your contribution to this year’s show:
I’m also a comedian and perform at McCurdy’s every once and a while. And one of the things I do in my act is a Casey Kasem act. (breaks into impression) “Our next song is by a band that’s probably the most popular of all time as said by MTV, Rolling Stone…”

And can you fill us in on some of the songs you guys will be singing?
“All I Have to do is Dream” by The Everly Brothers; “Breaking Up is Hard To Do” by Neil Sedaka; “Yesterday” by The Beatles; and “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys.

Any final words?
Our long time fans might be concerned that it’s a complete departure (from what we usually do) — and it’s really not. They are pop songs, but they’re arranged for barbershop. And we encourage them to bring their young singers to come see it!

IF YOU GO:
Chorus of the Keys presents “#1 Hits of the ’50s —’90s”
When: 2:30 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23
Where: Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way
Cost: Tickets $20 to $35.
Info: Call 484-7589 or visit chorusofthekeys.org