Our Purpose
Vision Statement
VOTD aspires to exist in a world where our differences are celebrated and inclusivity is the norm, not the exception. We envision being part of a community that uplifts its marginalized members, and where no one is afraid to sing their own song or dance to the beat of their own drum.
Mission Statement
Voices of the Desert, an unconventional theatrical chorus, bridges the gap between diverse communities. Our mission is to inspire advocacy, equality, and acceptance to all through our musical performance. We promote empowerment and inclusivity in our chorus and community.
Core Values
- Inclusivity
- Kindness
- Cohesiveness
- Positivity
- Respectfulness
- Fun!
Our History
Voices of the Desert was conceived in March, 2008, by Ron Casola, a Phoenix resident with significant musical interests and training. Mr. Casola felt that, given the size and diversity of America’s fifth-largest city, Phoenix should have a mixed voice chorus that not only represented the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender (GLBT) Community but also its straight allies in all aspects of the community. He observed that no one organization included all of those components and offered an opportunity to sing music scored for soprano, alto, tenor, and bass. Ron passed away in 2017 of Alzheimer's Disease, but his spirit lives on through every one of our performances.
Our Artistic Director
Keith Clark has been the artistic director of VOTD since 2010. Keith has a wide range of experience with a variety of musical genres. His vast experience in overseeing productions includes the cruise industry, national tours of theater for young audiences, light opera in New York City and worship music here in Phoenix at Gentle Shepherd Metropolitan Community Church.. In addition, Keith is an accomplished performer and is a member of Actor’s Equity and the Screen Actors Guild having earned his stripes in New York and through national and international touring. Keith has a Bachelor of Science degree in Music and Business from Indiana University, where he was a member of the Grammy-award winning Singing Hoosiers.