Throughout the Las Vegas Valley, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and their fellow community members attended watch parties in response to The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square’s invitation to participate in The Choir’s historic Hollywood Bowl performance June 24 and 25. 

The Songs of Hope Concert reminded Pricilla Davis that music is the universal language.

“We can find love and unity through music and the emotion it provides,” said Priscilla Davis, who attended a watch party at a church building in the Northwest part of town. “Seeing some of my favorite artists and songs was definitely a highlight as well.”

Guest artists who sang with the choir were Donny Osmond, David Foster, Katharine McPhee, Daniel Emmett, Stephanie J. Block, Sebastian Arcelus and the Bonner Family. The concert was a historic reminder of the first time the Choir performed at the Hollywood Bowl in 1926. The Las Vegas East Stake celebrated the historic element of the concert by hanging posters that showed the first Tabernacle Choir concert in the Hollywood Bowl as well as information about the history of the Choir.

“I loved the diversity of the music performed, it was so moving,” said Shauna McQueen, who was recently baptized as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“It’s not often that you encounter that type of excellence. I have to say that my favorite performer was Donny Osmond, his voice was so beautiful. I am so happy that I found this Church.” 

The Tabernacle Choir concert was also an important opportunity to unite music and humanitarian efforts both in Los Angeles and at watch parties. In Los Angeles, one hundred percent of ticket sale revenues were donated to trusted charities focused on improving the health, education and well-being of women and children. In Las Vegas, service projects at watch parties benefitted individual families and several nonprofits, including The Embracing Project, Allyfe Pregnancy Clinic, Living Grace Homes and Operation Home. 

Watch parties at various locations also included fun activities, community awards, and food. Some watch parties included carnival style games, and one included water slides.

“I thought it was wonderful,” said Vicki W. who attended a watch party in Logandale. “The concert was incredible; it was a great way to gather as a community.”