Day 2 of the #RiseUpTour was a day we’ll never forget—a day when months of preparation, countless rehearsals, and incredible dedication culminated in a performance on the world stage. Competing in the Gospel category at the highest Champions Tier of the World Choir Games in Auckland, New Zealand, the Voices of Unity Youth Choir delivered a performance that left the audience in awe and the judges on their feet.
Morning Preparations
The day began early, with our choir members focused and ready to give their all. The winter weather in New Zealand brought rain, but that didn’t dampen the enthusiasm or determination of our students. We started with a quick rehearsal at the Q Theatre to refine final lines, timings, and preparations. Despite the nerves and excitement, the choir stayed composed, focused, and eager for what lay ahead.
After rehearsal, it was time to get dressed and polished. The team returned to the hotel for hair, makeup, and formal outfit preparations—a process that took meticulous coordination for over 30 choir members. A special thank-you goes to our uniform team and Veronica Towns for ensuring every member looked their best, representing the Voices of Unity with pride and professionalism.
Game Time at the Q Theatre
With the preparations complete, it was time to return to the Q Theatre, where lines of excited attendees awaited entry to the sold-out event. The energy was electric. Gospel music holds a universal appeal, and the crowd, comprising locals from Auckland and international visitors, was buzzing with anticipation.
Before stepping onto the stage, the choir gathered in a space called “The Vault,” a green room where last-minute preparations and moments of encouragement took place. This time together allowed the choir to focus, calm their nerves, and unite as a team one last time before their performance.
The Performance
The moment had finally arrived. The Voices of Unity took the stage and delivered a breathtaking 15-minute set of four powerful songs:
- “I’ve Got My Ticket” – A vibrant opening that set the tone for the performance.
- “The Storm Is Passing Over” – A soul-stirring piece that resonated deeply with the audience.
- “Oh Happy Day” – An uplifting classic that had the crowd clapping along.
- “View That Holy City” – A grand and awe-inspiring conclusion that left the room in silence before erupting into applause.
Each song was delivered with precision, passion, and heart, showcasing the extraordinary growth of these young performers. The international crowd was captivated, responding with thunderous applause and a standing ovation. For our choir, it was a moment that validated every ounce of effort, sacrifice, and dedication poured into this journey.
The Real Victory
While we eagerly await the official competition results, the real victory was evident in the emotions that followed the performance. Tears of joy flowed as choir members embraced one another, overwhelmed by pride and the enormity of what they had accomplished. Parents and supporters shared in this jubilation, celebrating the transformation of these students into globally recognized performers.
Speaking with the students afterward, it was clear that they understood the significance of what they had achieved. Many reflected on the journey from their first rehearsal six months ago to now, standing as a unified choir competing on the world stage. For them, the greatest triumph was not in the awards but in the growth, unity, and memories they had created together.
A Day to Remember
This day was more than just a competition—it was a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and the unwavering support of our community. Competing in the Champions Tier, the Voices of Unity stood alongside renowned choirs from around the world, many of them adult choirs with years of experience. Yet, our youth choir held their own, delivering a performance that will be remembered long after the final note.
We are immensely proud of our students, their dedication, and the way they represented Fort Wayne, Indiana, and the United States. Their spirit, energy, and passion shone through every note, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who witnessed their performance.
Looking Ahead
As we wait for the results to be announced on Saturday, we remain filled with gratitude and pride. This journey has already been a resounding success, thanks to the tireless efforts of our students, staff, parents, and supporters. To everyone who has contributed to this experience—whether through time, resources, or encouragement—we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Stay tuned for more updates and photos as we continue sharing the highlights of the Rise Up Tour. Day 3 will be an “off day” for the choir, but it’s set to include a special visit to Hobbiton, where we’ll dive into the magical world of The Lord of the Rings.