In case you missed it. This article was previously published on StratfordToday.
A star-studded collection of talent are gathering for a holiday gala performance at the Stratford Festival theatre.
A Stratford Christmas will feature a number of gifted artists, who have graced the stages of the Stratford Festival and Broadway, among other venues, and bring with them decades of experience and world-renowned productions, across the arts.
"First and foremost, we have really great talent that we have assembled to present beautiful music," co-host David Rogers told StratfordToday.
Rogers will emcee the evening with Sheila McCarthy - both are well-loved theatre veterans.
Rogers has appeared in Phantom of the Opera, The Music Man, Les Miserables and performed in a number of concerts. Through her contributions to film, television and stage, McCarthy has won two Genie awards (film), two Gemini awards (television) and two Dora awards (theatre).
Rogers said the audience can expect some artistic contributions from the duo as they move through the show.
The show is similar but not the same as the Stratford Starbright performances that ran for a number of years in the city but wrapped up about a decade ago, Rogers said. The newer show has some differences that audience will recognize.
"This is more like a grand concert," he said, noting that guests will be dressed accordingly.
Along with the Stratford Concert Choir there are some local performers including Britta Johnson and Jake Stern. Favourites the audience may recognize include Robert Ball, Mark Cassius, Laura Condlln, June Crowley, Ma-Anne Dionisio, Rebecca Poff, and Michael VanHevel. Music direction is by Mark Payne.
"We have some modern songs, contemporary Christmas songs like The Prayer and Grown up Christmas List, traditional Christmas carols. Some songs are not necessarily seasonal."
Erica Peck, who appeared in the Stratford Festival production of Rent this season, will perform an "inspirational song", Rogers said.
The event is produced by the Stratford Arts and Culture Collective and proceeds stay local, to support Optimism Place and Shelterlink.
Rogers is optimistic about ticket sales given the calibre of talent, hoping to pack the Festival Theatre.
"We are going to fill it. Stratford hasn't had a Christmas show like this for a while...we have gathered the best voices we could for this event."
This concert is on Saturday, Dec. 16 and begins at 2 p.m. It is suitable for children ages 8 and older.
You can purchase tickets here.
