The holiday season is just around the corner and, as usual, the Montreal artistic scene has plenty of events celebrating the occasion. One of the many shows that we have had the opportunity to follow for the last few years is the Lyric Theatre Singers’ Candlelight Christmas. One aspect to underline about this annual event, is its diversity, both, in the variety of rhythms and styles –jazz, classical, pop, Broadway themes– as well as in terms of the origins of the musical items. In the past editions of this show we have had the occasion to enjoy seasonal music from Africa, Europe, Latin America, and of course North America, and not all are celebrations of Christmas since yearend is also an occasion for festivities from other communities such as the Jewish and African. We should see what new themes, besides the expected Christmas traditional songs this company will present for this season.
“Our annual concerts are the perfect vehicle for sharing the holiday spirit; a celebration of great seasonal music, accessible—and enjoyable—to all, regardless of age or beliefs,” says Bob Bachelor, Lyric Theatre Singers Founder and Artistic Director. The title chosen for the concerts is not just a metaphorical reference to the season, as Bachelor explains: “The fact that we have actual candlelight to enhance both the beauty of Loyola Chapel and our singing is always a plus. The moment when we ask the audience to light their candles as we sing never fails to move both Singers and patrons alike. It’s truly magical!”
The forty voices of the choral group are supported by a strong musical ensemble. The instrumentalists are Sheila Hannigan on cello, Tim Malloch on flute, Robin Best playing the harp, and Peter Colantonio on both percussion and keyboards, the pianist is Chad Linsley.
The Candlelight Christmas concerts by The Lyric Theatre Singers will take place on Thursday, December 5 and Friday, December 6 at 8 p.m., on Saturday, December 7 at 4 p.m., and on Sunday, December 8 at 1:30 p.m. All the presentations will be held at the Loyola Chapel, Concordia University, located at 7141 Sherbrooke Street West. Bus 105 (from Vendome Metro Station). $6 Campus Parking adjacent to the chapel. This venue is wheelchair accessible.
Donations of non-perishable goods and/or money for The Depot / Le Depôt will be gratefully accepted at all four performances.
For detailed information and to buy tickets
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