OREANDA-NEWS. August 21, 2015. Holland America Line hosted the annual Director’s Circle Summer Luncheon for the Seattle Men’s and Women’s choruses aboard ms Amsterdam at the Port of Seattle.

The event started with a message from Executive Director of Seattle Men’s Chorus Steven Smith, Artistic Director Dennis Coleman and Board President Bob Davidson, followed by a performance in the ship’s main show lounge by artists from both choruses. After a gourmet lunch guests were invited to tour the ship.

“Holland America Line is proud to be a longstanding supporter of Seattle Men’s and Women’s choruses, organizations that not only represent exceptionally talented artists but who also act as a voice for acceptance,” said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. “Entertainment and cruising go hand in hand, and it’s rewarding when we can partner with local arts organizations that have a worldwide impact.”

“Our annual luncheon aboard one of Holland America Line’s beautiful ships is a highlight of our year,” said Smith. "Without the support of our community partners we would not be able to provide such quality programming, so we are deeply grateful to Holland America Line for everything that they do for the choruses and our organization."

About Seattle Men’s and Women’s Choruses

The Seattle Men’s Chorus and Seattle Women’s Chorus are two of the largest community choruses in America. Formed in 1979, the Seattle Men’s Chorus is the largest gay men’s chorus in the world, with more than 350 singing members. The Seattle Women’s Chorus, which debuted in 2002, has quickly grown to over 300 singers.

Full-scale choral productions combine the region’s leading professional talents with nationally known guest artists to create events that attract more than 25,000 people to a five-concert series each season. Thousands more see each chorus in other local performances every year. To learn more visit flyinghouse.org.

Holland America Line Community Support

Each year Holland America Line hosts more than 25 shipboard charity luncheons for nearly 5,000 guests in its home port cities. In addition, Holland America Line and its corporate foundation’s charitable-giving programs provide cash sponsorships, in-kind donations, free- and reduced-fare cruise donations for nonprofit fundraising events, donations of usable shipboard items around the world, employee volunteerism and other philanthropic activities.