They have been the musical ambassadors for Dexter for more than a decade, performing throughout the nation, garnering the highest of praise, trophies and the applause of audiences wherever they have travelled.

They have taken their unique style, talent and enthusiasm to audiences at the United Nations in New York, Jackson Square in New Orleans, the brightest stages in Branson, the Sears Tower in Chicago, and Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla.

And now, the young women and men in the 2011-2012 Dexter Show Choir are preparing to embark on another adventure, - returning to Branson to open for one of the hottest shows, and perform at one of the favorite themes parks in the entertainment capital.

Since last fall, the ensemble has practiced and prepared for the spring concert tour. They have learned music and choreography, worked together as a team on music, dancing, and fundraising, and every week take a few more steps forward in preparation. Now, as they look forward their journey, they are presenting their show to the community.

“The choir is excited about performing at home, and showing their hard work,” said Dexter Show Choir Director MaryRuth Boone. Boone has directed the choir since its inception, and continues to lead the community youth choir.

The choir will have a special concert presentation of their 2012-2012 show on Thursday, May 31. The performance will begin at 7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall; admission is $5 and dessert will be served.

Boone explained that musical ability is, indeed, a part of being a member of the auditioned choir. Members must audition, and combine musical talent with the ability to dance, being enthusiastic on stage, and a touch of acting. Dexter Show Choir is not a part of the curriculum at the local high school, and in fact not all members are part of a high school choir or even attend Dexter High School.

“It’s certainly been an exciting year for Show Choir,” Boone said. She said this year’s music is from the Broadway musical ‘Hairspray” and features snappy tunes and exciting performances from the choir.

“This show is one of my favorites,” she said. “The musical is set in Baltimore in the 1950s, and the music reflects this exciting time. The tunes are everything from upbeat and fast-moving to a beautiful ballad. The kids have had fun, and so have I, all year.”

The Show Choir meets each Sunday evening at the First Baptist Church, which has opened its facility to the community choir.

“I especially want to thank First Baptist for being so gracious this last fall. When changes were made and a new rehearsal location had to be found, they were right there ready to help and support the young people. We certainly appreciate their support and open arms,” Boone commented.

Boone is helped each week by a faithful corps of volunteers, including Roger and Malisa Mayo, Annabeth Miller and Vikki Ross.

Boone said the choir will be open to young people in high school and college from throughout the area next year. Young people interested in joining the choir are encouraged to attend the May 31 performance to learn more about the choir and the work the young people do each year.

Dexter Show Choir members include:

Young ladies - Afton Harris, Alexis Smith, Darcie Lane, Emily Triplett, Hannah Noe, Kaitlin Viers, Mackayla Burge, Malinda Mayo, Michaela Lesley, Miranda Rogers, Morgan Cliff. Rachel Putnam, Reale Cook, Samantha Midget, Shelby Gathings, Shyann Jines, Stephanie Gee, Whitney Layton.

Young men – Alex Morgan, Austin Richardson, Brad Swallows, Brooks Probst, Colton Averett, Dalton Putnam, Drew Mason, J T Putnam, Jackson Hubbard, Joe Foster, Jonathon Foels, Jordon Dodson, Keaton Altom, Logan Quertermous, Noah Kronk, Ryan Mayo, Sam Ward, Zach Midkiff, Zach  Sims.