(Dianne Reeves performs holiday classivs December 11 at American Theatre in Hampton)
“The Snowman & Gift of the Magi”
Virginia Symphony Orchestra
November 27
Sandler Center
The charming, animated film follows the story of a young boy and his magical friendship with a snowman, while the VSO performs Howard Blake’s score, including the popular song “Walking in the Air.” “The Gift of the Magi”, is one of America’s most beloved short-stories. Based on O. Henry’s beloved short story, is a profound message of love and generosity.] It is the tale of Jim and Della, a young couple living in a shabby New York tenement, and their Christmas gifts to one another, bought by sacrificing what they each hold most dear. Joining the VSO on stage will be the Virginia Children’s Chorus and narrator to bring the story to life!
Advent Lessons & Carols
Sunday, November 27, 5:30-6:30pm
Christ and St. Luke’s Episcopal Church
Candle-lit service of Lessons and Carols. Enter the season of Advent with this beautiful and meditative service.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
November 30
Ferguson Center
The ultimate holiday tradition! Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for the past 30 years. Grammy Award-winner Davis has created a show that features the beloved Christmas music of Mannheim Steamroller along with dazzling multimedia effects. Experience the magic as the spirit of the season comes alive with the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller. Their holiday CDs have become synonymous with Christmas and continue to occupy top spots on Billboard’s seasonal charts.
Sandi Patty Christmas Blessings Tour
December 1
Ferguson Center
As one of the most highly acclaimed performers of our time with five Grammy Awards, four Billboard Music Awards, three platinum records, five gold records and 11 million units sold, Sandi Patty is simply known as “The Voice,” and remains the most awarded female vocalist in contemporary Christian music history with 40 Dove Awards. She was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2004 and has released over 30 albums, including her latest, “Forever Grateful” (2016). “Christmas Blessings” will be an inspirational performance by a truly talented singer.
Brian Setzer Orchestra’s 13th annual Christmas Rocks
December 2
Ferguson Center
The iconic guitarist, songwriter, vocalist and three-time Grammy Award winner Brian Setzer and his 19-piece orchestra whip up a huge dose of retro holiday cheer with their Christmas Rocks! Tour presented by SiriusXM. The acclaimed show also features music from their latest Christmas album, “Rockin’ Rudolph,” their three other best-selling holiday albums, as well as original Brian Setzer hits. Consistently cited as one of the world’s greatest living guitarists, Setzer’s trademark guitar work and vocal stylings are matched with the Brian Setzer Orchestra’s rockin’ big-band horn arrangements—an unbeatable combination guaranteed to rock you into the holiday spirit!
Winter Classics
Hampton Roads Philharmonic
December 4
American Theatre
This December, join the Hampton Roads Philharmonic for a winter-themed classical program, with a pops-style twist. Come hear how the coldest times have inspired some of the greatest composers, including selections from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker ballet suite and his “Winter Dreams” symphony. Throughout the program, shake off some winter gloom with seasonal favorites such as The Skater’s Waltz, Sleigh Ride, and a special guest narration of “A Visit from St. Nick.”
Home for the Holiday
Tidewater Winds
December 5
Sandler Center
The sounds of big band swing filled with holiday melodies.
Kenny Rogers 35th Annual Christmas Hits Farewell Concert
December 7
Ted Constant Center
The famous country performs his classic hits and a variety of holiday tunes as he says goodbye to fans.
Holiday Pops
Virginia Symphony Orchestra
December 9, Ferguson Center
December 10, Chrysler Hall
December 11, Sandler Center
There’s no better way to lift your spirits than with seasonal songs and traditional carols delivered in full sound and spectacle by the Virginia Symphony, the inspirational voices of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus and special guests. This year, Music Director JoAnn Falletta conducts Holiday Pops with all the magical elements you’ve come to expect—high energy, familiar carols and lots of holiday warmth.
TRADOC Winds Holiday series
US Army Training & Doctrine Command Band
December 9, St. Bede Church, Williamsburg
December 11, Wycliffe Presbyterian Church, VA Beach
December 15, Jacob Center, Fort Eustis
December 16, Fort Monroe theater
December 17, Regent University
Free Admission, Tickets at www.facebook.com/tradocband
The US Army band performs a lively repertoire of holiday tunes.
Olde Towne Holiday Music Festival
Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center and throughout Olde Towne
December 10
Noon to 6 pm
www.portsmouthartcenter.com, 757-393-8543
The sidewalks come alive with a wide variety of holiday music featuring gospel, jazz, folk and more.
“We Wish You Christmas”
Virginia Beach Chorale
December 10
Sandler Center
A vocal concert of holiday themed songs such as “Jingle Bells,” “Ose Shalom” and “Dance of the Sugar Plum Ferries.”
Dianne Reeves: Christmas Time is Here
December 11
American Theatre
The pre-eminent jazz vocalist in the world, Grammy Award winning Dianne Reeves rings in the holiday season at The American Theatre. With music from her celebrated album, Christmas Time Is Here, Reeves melds her timeless grace, elegance, and charisma into unforgettable jazz renditions of holiday favorites such as “Little Drummer Boy,” “Carol of the Bells,” “Let It Snow,” and many more. Renowned for her breathtaking virtuosity, improvisational prowess, and unique jazz and R&B stylings, Reeves will warm your heart with holiday cheer.
Jingle Bell Jam
Virginia Symphony Orchestra
December 11
Sandler Center
Santa Claus is coming to town and he’s stopping by to be a part of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s ever-popular Jingle Bell Jam! Celebrate the magic of the season with an afternoon that showcases the music of the holidays performed by the best talent in Hampton Roads. You won’t want to miss this holly jolly concert!
The King’s Singers presented by Virginia Arts Festival
December 16, 8pm
Sacred Heart Parish
Enjoy an extraordinary evening of holiday music by this peerless male vocal ensemble! The Grammy Award winning King’s Singers will perform holiday classics from across the centuries, from medieval sacred music to seasonal favorites from the Great American Songbook – interspersed with dramatic readings that summon the spirit of the season.
Handel’s Messiah
Virginia Symphony Orchestra
December 16, First Baptist Church of Newport News
December 17, Harrison Opera House
Robert Shoup conducts the Virginia Symphony Orchestra for the time-honored Christmas tradition of George Frideric Handel’s revered oratorio, Messiah. Get in the spirit of the season with this distinguished performance of Handel’s sacred masterpiece that presents the austere and dramatic narrative of Jesus Christ’s life. From Isaiah’s prophecies to the Hallelujah Chorus, you will be brought to your feet in the Messiah performance of the season.
