The Good Shepherd Follies and the VocalEssence SOTA Concert!
A Night at the Follies
Believe it or not, the first Good Shepherd Follies took place about 20 years ago, when I was just a member who was asked to put together an evening of entertainment. We don’t know exactly how many Follies there have been, somewhere between 10 and 15, but our latest rendition was one of our best and most diverse programs ever!
Vocalists, a magician, cellos, pianists, a clarinet, a trombone, and even Pastor Laura accompanying herself on guitar, all added up to a memorable and joyful evening of fellowship and entertainment! Thanks to all who participated!
Written by Tor Johnson, Director of Children’s Ministries and Performing Arts
VocalEssence, Singers Of This Age Concert
The final Stories the Land Holds event was a joyful and moving conclusion to a year-long journey of learning, storytelling, and community connection. The evening brought together music, art, conversation, and fellowship in a meaningful celebration of land, home, and belonging.
At the center of the evening was the incredible performance by the VocalEssence Singers Of This Age, also known as SOTA. The choir filled the sanctuary with powerful singing, movement, and energy that captivated everyone in attendance. Their voices carried throughout the space with both strength and beauty, creating moments that were joyful, emotional, and unforgettable. Through music and movement, the singers shared stories of identity, community, and hope in ways that felt deeply personal and inspiring.
SOTA is made up of teenagers from across the Twin Cities who use music, creativity, and collaboration to build community and encourage social change through the arts. Under the leadership of G. Phillip Shoultz III, the ensemble performs music ranging from classical and gospel to spoken word and hip-hop-inspired works.
The evening was more than a concert — it was a celebration of all that had been learned and shared throughout the year. As the final gathering in the Stories the Land Holds series, it reflected the power of music and storytelling to bring people together and deepen connections within the community.
Learn more about VocalEssence Singers Of This Age (SOTA).
Written by Mara Rosenblum, Marketing and Communications Specialist