The story of Sound Cascade Chorus began in 1972 with 5 potential members and Mrs. James Salesman as the director. Through advertising in the Argus Leader and television promotions, the group grew to 40 members and received their charter into Sweet Adelines International on February 23, 1974. The chorus was then known as the Sioux Falls Sweet Adelines and was directed by Charlotte Himmler. The first president of the chorus was Jodi Stitt.
Charlotte Himmler was also part of a quartet, Sioux-Per Kords, along with Ardith Rang, Audrey Lundquist and Delores Whitney. These gals performed in the community and on local television shows to promote the potential chorus.
The group’s charter show was held at the Sioux Falls Community Playhouse on February 23, 1974. Ticket prices were $2.00 and the theme of the show was “The Sunny Side of Life”. The first costume was a hot pink polyester floor length dress with shoes made to match by glueing pieces of the fabric to cover them.
Over the years the chorus competed in Regional Competitions and presented a themed show annually. Membership numbers have ranged from 40-70, along with several director changes. After Charlotte, Kerry Burtis, who was an Augustana College music major, brought us to a third place finish at competition. Costumes of black floor length skirts with white ruffles (made from bed sheets), white shirts with red accents and cumberbunds, and hats made from white paper plates and red netting were a very attractive costume!
Directors after Kerry included Shari Smith, Karen Christian and Dave Sternborg. Currently the group’s director is Carol Patch.
