Straight No Chaser performs sold-out show at Midland Center for the Arts

Mikaila BluewMembers of Straight No Chaser perform at Midland Center for the Arts to a sold-out theater on Nov. 30, 2024Straight No Chaser, a popular a cappella group, brought their Top Shelf Tour to the Midland Center for the Arts on November 30, performing for a sold-out crowd of enthusiastic fans.  

The evening combined harmonies, witty humor, and a mix of holiday classics and original arrangements, delivering a memorable and interactive night of live entertainment. 

The group, consisting of Walter Chase, Jerome Collins, Seggie Isho, Michael Luginbill, Steve Morgan, Jasper Smith, Luke Bob Robinson, Tyler Trepp, and Freedom Young, have made quite an impact in the a cappella scene.  

The group, originally formed at Indiana State University, split up before reuniting after their viral video of the 12 Days of Christmas gained national attention. Since then, they have built a loyal following, thanks to their blend of musical talent, humor, and engaging stage presence. 

Mikaila BluewStraight No Chaser performs a Johhny Cash mash-up during their performance in Midland, Michigan on Nov. 30, 2024While Straight No Chaser initially gained fame with their holiday performances, their show in Midland showcased a broader mix of genres and styles. The first half of the performance was a blend of music, with sections dedicated to themes like the women of the 90s, a comedic take on movie theme songs, and a tribute to Johnny Cash. 

Each musical set was followed by introductions to the performers or short comedic skits, making the event feel more like a conversation between the group and the audience than a typical concert experience. This created a relaxed atmosphere that contrasted well with the high energy of the performances. 

The second half of the show returned to the group’s holiday roots but with a twist. They made light of how overplayed these classics can feel as the season progresses, the audience laughed along as they joked about the constant loop of holiday hits. 

Mikaila BluewStraight No Chaser performs a Christmas mash-up during their sold-out show at Midland Center for the Arts on Nov. 30, 2024One of the most enjoyable moments of the evening came when the group invited the crowd to participate in a beatboxing lesson. This fun, interactive segment showcased their ability to seamlessly blend humor and musicality through fun quips to the audience. The crowd joined in, laughing and creating rhythms along with the performers to the hit song Lil Boo Thang by Paul Russell. 

The finale of the performance was a blend of full songs and mashups, demonstrating the group’s continued ability to make traditional holiday music feel less played out.  

The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, with some even offering the group a standing ovation, clearly impressed with the group’s vocal skill and approach to familiar tunes. 

As the show ended, fans rushed to the lobby to meet the performers, purchase merchandise and get items signed. Many shared brief but meaningful interactions with the group, some giving hugs, sharing art, or simply expressing their appreciation. These moments showed the strong bond between the band and their fans—an interaction that felt genuine and authentic. 

Mikaila BluewMichael Luginbill greets a returning fan of Straight No Chaser at Midland Center for the Arts during the merchandise signing on Nov. 30, 2024Straight No Chaser’s performance in Midland was a reminder of their talent in the a cappella world for many new and returning fans. It wasn’t just their musical ability that resonated with the audience, but their capacity to entertain with humor, break down the barrier between audience and performer, and create an atmosphere where everyone could feel like they were a part of the show.  

Their continued success as a group is built on their ability to continuously evolve, finding new ways to deliver loved classics both in terms of creativity and engagement. 

It is easy to see why Straight No Chaser’s reputation as a top-tier a cappella group has been earned. Their music may evolve, but their core strength lies in their ability to entertain and connect with fans in a personal way that’s rare in today’s live music scene. 

For the audience at the Midland Center for the Arts, the evening showed that Straight No Chaser is more than just a vocal group. They turn concerts into unique experiences, where music, comedy, and audience interaction come together, making what could be the same perfect holiday performance feel lively and fun.