PORTLAND — Keeping with tradition, the Portland Symphony Orchestra will give 11 “Magic of Christmas” performances, beginning Friday, Dec. 14, at Merrill Auditorium.
Joining the orchestra will be master illusionist Lynn Dillies, the Windham Chamber Singers and the Magic of Christmas Chorus.
Music Director Robert Moody will lead the PSO in a festive and inspirational program of classical and popular holiday hits, including “Joy to the World” and “Pastorale” from “Christmas Concerto.”
Dillies has earned national acclaim for her “Magic At The Symphony” program, which helps inspire children to enjoy the symphony through her colorful illusions.
The Windham Chamber Singers, led by Richard Nickerson, is made up of 40 Windham High School students. In its 24th year, the ensemble has received praise through the years for performances at international music festivals, as well as for U.S. presidents, celebrities and other notable figures.
The Magic of Christmas Chorus, lead by Director Rob Westerberg, comprises more than 130 volunteers who are members or friends of the Portland Community Chorus. The singers come together from 27 communities extending from York to Brunswick and Baldwin to Otisfield.
Concert highlights include the playing of Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” when PSO players try to outdo one another with their festive and comical attire; and an inspirational audience singalong celebrating the season.
Tickets range from $31 to $61, with seniors saving $5 and children under 18 saving $10. For reservations, call 842-0800, visit the PortTIX box office at Merill Auditorium, 20 Myrtle St., between noon and 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday; or log on to www.portlandsymphony.org. Phone and Internet orders are subject to a $6 per-ticket PortTIX handling fee, and all ticket prices include a $2 Merrill restoration fee.
“Magic of Christmas” concerts will be at 2 p.m. (preview) and 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15; 1 and 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 16; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22; and 1 and 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 23.
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- As is tradition at the Portland Symphony Orchestra’s “Magic of Christmas” concerts, musicians try to outdo one another with their festive and comical attire when playing Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride.”
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