As part of WorldPride 2025 and in partnership with the Capital Pride Alliance, the International Pride Orchestra is proud to present its one-night-only Pride Celebration Concert at the Strathmore Music Center, in collaboration with the renowned Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC.
The International Pride Orchestra (IPO) unites LGBTQ+ musicians and allies from around the world to present concerts, celebrate community, and raise awareness for organizations that uplift the LGBTQ+ community. They will be joined on stage by the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC (GMCW), a renowned ensemble that uses the power of music and education to inspire equality, promote justice, and affirm the dignity of all people.
This history-making performance brings together artists, audiences, and advocates in support of Whitman-Walker. A part of the fabric of D.C. and a national leader in the LGBTQ+ community for more than 50 years, Whitman-Walker provides health and legal services to 20,000 patients each year and conducts lifesaving research focused on HIV, cancer, substance use, and other chronic illnesses.
San Francisco–based drag icon Peaches Christ takes the stage as host, bringing her razor-sharp wit and commanding presence. Featured guest artists include Thorgy Thor, the New York City–based violinist and drag superstar known for her appearances on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8, All Stars Season 3, and TLC’s Dragnificent. Her genre-smashing “Thorchestra” is pure drag brilliance with a symphonic twist. Also appearing is acclaimed pianist Sara Davis Buechner, a celebrated soloist and passionate advocate for transgender visibility in the arts. Her distinguished career spans the world’s major concert halls, and her voice continues to inspire both within and beyond the classical music community.
The program will be led by a distinguished roster of conductors, including Bonnie Alger, Thea Kano, Robert Moody, and IPO founder Michael Roest. Together, they will lead the orchestra and chorus in a colorful program that celebrates the beauty, camp, and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.