This last weekend before Christmas fills the air of Montgomery County with the sounds of the season, reflecting a host of different styles, genres, cultural influences and traditions. The only sure-thing is the expertise with which each performance will be presented.
Twelve Twenty-Four - Sunnybrook Ballroom
The 14 performers of Twelve Twenty-Four produce a sound with sufficient energy and skill that even the most ancient holiday melodies take on a whole new character. For 14 years, they've been recreating the artistry of groups like the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and the December 18 concert at Sunnybrook Ballroom promises no less. The song list comprises tracks from its 2012 release Light in the Dark, as well as selections from the 2010 debut CD Miracle on Rock Street. Tickets include a holiday dinner, served buffet style by Sunnybrook's expert chefs.
Kenny Rogers: Once Again, It's Christmas - Valley Forge Casino Resort Music Fair
Although traditional sources for ticket purchases have sold out, dedicated fans may be able to score seats to this December 18 concert on their own. Kenny Rogers - the last headliner to occupy the venue in Devon - returns to the Music Fair at the Valley Forge Casino Resort. Along with singer Linda Davis, Rogers will lead the audience through a catalog of holiday favorites. The emotional quotient is being raised even further with the announcement that this is Rogers farewell tour.
Valley Forge Chorale Concert - Valley Forge Presyterian Church
For some, the glitz and sparkle of the holiday season can be a little overwhelming from a sensory perception point of view. The organizers of the sixth annual Christmas concert of the Valley Forge Chorale understand that and therefore have scaled back on the pomp in this year's lineup. But that doesn't mean they won't handle the music without 100 percent of their skill and commitment. The program, December 19 at 2 p.m., is at Valley Forge Presbyterian Church.
Annual March-In of the Continental Army - Valley Forge National Historical Park
When Valley Forge National Historical Park re-enacts the arrival of Washington's army into Valley Forge, it chooses to keep the event on the historically correct date of December 19. This year, with the 19th being a Saturday (as opposed to a weekday), even more history buffs can attend. The evening's presentations (6-8 p.m.) include seasonal music from The Colonial Revelers, candle-lit tours, speeches from General George Washington, fife and drum music and stories by campfire. A special display will highlight correspondence between General Washington and the Continental Congress.
The Colonial Theatre Presents The Nutcracker
December 20 at 5:30 p.m. brings a big-screen broadcast of one of the holiday's signature productions, as danced by The Royal Ballet of London, to The Colonial Theatre. Loosely based on a story by E.T.A. Hoffmann, this version overflows with majesty, fantasy and joy, all set to the familiar Tchaikovsky score. The hi-def feed renders the dancers in stunning detail, and the colorful costumes absolutely pop. The production comes right from Covent Garden in London to cinemas all over the globe - including Phoenixville.
Sing-Along Concert - Washington Memorial Chapel
When Doug Gefvert sits at the console of the carillon high in the tower of Washington Memorial Chapel, he doesn't play with his fingers; he plays with his fists, plunging them down to the batons connected to 58 differently pitched bells. The result on December 20 at 7 p.m. is a concert that speaks to everyone at holiday time. Best of all, attendees are invited to raise their voices and sing with Doug, ensuring that the sounds of family and friends echo across Valley Forge National Historical Park. The concert is free and singers will be outdoors, so appropriate dress is recommended.
Music for the Advent Season - Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
The sanctuary of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (Abington) on December 20 at 7 p.m. will resonate with the mystery and intrigue of Advent and its particularly reflective music. Music Concordia is the church's ecumenical choir, so the singers and musicians will represent a cross-section of faith traditions, befitting of the themes of unity at this time of year. The concert is free, but an offering will be taken.
Free Parking in Ardmore
With the holiday shopping season coming to a close, the chance to enjoy a free perk can be music to the ears. Downtown Ardmore is waiving its parking fees at downtown meters and lots on December 19. It's a budget-friendly and way to conveniently pick up those last-minute presents.
