Herberger Theater Center, 222 E.Here's a landmark: we are about to start our 20th Season. “I’ve really thought about that as I created this year’s show and hope folks will come to lay everything aside and just enjoy celebrating the holidays in music for one evening with us.” “I’ve been very aware that many are in real need of a show where they can come, relax and forget the many tensions and pressures, both of their lives in the last few months and even that can be created just by the holidays themselves,” Kennedy said. For me, it makes my Christmas very special ,getting to do the show with so many performers I truly enjoy making music with and consider family.”įor Kennedy, it is important to create an environment where people can leave their worries behind and enjoy good holiday music. I’m so aware of this when I’m planning and writing the show. “Many say that it isn’t Christmas for them until they attend the show. “I’m so grateful and very humbled by the loyalty of so many who come year after year,” Kennedy said. One group of loyal fans, hailing from different parts of the country, met while sitting together at a large table at the cabaret 10 years ago. Kennedy said over the years, attendees have joined in on Bob Dylan’s Must Be Santa, Cyndi Lauper’s Minnie and Santa, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and White Christmas.Ī diverse group of people, wearing holiday sweaters to tuxedos and dresses, attend the show each year.įor some audience members, the cabaret night has become an annual tradition. Often, members of the crowd start singing along to the songs. This year, Kennedy is bringing to the show Beth Nielsen Chapman tunes and Christmas carols from Alfred S. Kennedy said he is open to doing popular holiday tunes but tries to stay away from overdone Frosty and Santa music. This year, Kennedy will also portray an iconic historical figure during one part of the show.Īudiences can expect to hear well-known and lesser-known Christmas songs. The ensemble will perform a range of holiday music, including pop, jazz, R&B and blues tunes. “Transitioning from singing tight jazz harmonies to pop background vocals to legit choral sounds is not something everyone can do, but I’m blessed to find people who can and who enjoy doing so.” “I’m looking for singers who can sing a wide variety of styles and are willing to stylize in as many ways as I ask, as well as a great ear, and this requires them to be very much in control of their instrument,” Kennedy said. Kennedy said he seeks out professionals with talent and musical versatility. Over the last 13 years, 12 other performers have also appeared in the five-to-six-person cabaret. “ĭuring the show, Kennedy will be joined by local vocalists Adam Vargas, Brian Sweis, Miguel Jackson, Julia Thomson, Lisa Fogel and Emily Mulligan-Ferry, all of whom are returning to the show. “It’s a show written for adults, once in a while with something a little naughty to get a laugh. “We try to touch on adult themes and emotions without being too sentimental,” Kennedy said. Kennedy expects the music will make his audiences reflect on the meaning of the holidays. Meant for an adult audience, the show features solos, duets, group harmonies and a touch of comedy. Attendees can purchase a treat or a drink to enjoy during the show from an onsite bar. During the show, the Kax Stage space resembles a cabaret setting, with two-to-eight-person tables situated around the room and decorated with candles and holiday adornments.
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