Who among us, when thinking of Christmas and the winter holidays, does not have at least a song or two that comes to mind as part of the warm memories of the season? Happily, there are many opportunities locally to still make music and other performing arts part of your winter holiday break as well as part of the New Year.
Throughout the holidays, performances including A Christmas Carol, The Nutcracker and numerous carol sings populate the area’s stages and community venues. Both the Mystic and Greater Westerly/Pawcatuck Chamber of Commerce have listings of these performances as well as other opportunities to enjoy the area’s sites, made even more beautiful with garlands and twinkling lights, while shopping, dining and being entertained.
Then, after all the gifts are opened, the sugarplums devoured and the decorations sadly put away, the Chorus of Westerly takes to the stage. On January 9, 10 and 11, for seven performances, the Chorus brings a unique close to the season by marking the tradition of epiphany with its spectacular production of A Celebration of Twelfth Night. The production, featuring a cast of one hundred in addition to the Chorus, is newly scripted each year yet includes traditional elements such as a Feast of Fools, the Westerly Morris Men and their Abbots Bromley dance, and a mythical beast or two. For over thirty years, friends and families have extended their holiday celebrations and gatherings to include this not-to-be-missed event.
In addition, there are many opportunities to make the arts a part of your 2009. The Chorus of Westerly itself performs again on March 8 with Musica Sacra Italiana, May 17 with Messe Solennelle de Sainte Cecile (Gounod) and on June 21 with Summer Pops in Wilcox Park.
Visit The Chorus online at www.chorusofwesterly.org or call 401.596.8663 for more information on A Celebration of Twelfth Night or other concerts and events this season. The Chorus of Westerly invites you to join in song and celebration this holiday season and wishes you and yours all the best for the New Year!
Best Wishes,
Emma Palzere-Rae
Executive Director
Chorus of Westerly
