WS Chronicle

The Winston-Salem State University Burke Singers, a female a cappella vocal ensemble founded by Director of Choirs and Vocal Studies D’Walla Simmons Burke, will perform as part of the Winston-Salem Symphony’s “Carolina Christmas Spectacular!” on Saturday, Nov. 30 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 1 at 2 p.m. at Reynolds Auditorium, 301 N. Hawthorne Rd.

The concert will include a selection of popular and beloved secular and religious music. Aerialists from Cirque de la Symphonie will also take part in the concert, which will be directed by Symphony Music Director Robert Moody.

This concert is part of the Winston-Salem Symphony’s Angel Tree partnership with the Salvation Army. Concert goers are encouraged to donate new unwrapped toys for children up to age 12 at the concerts. The toys will be distributed through The Salvation Army’s Christmas Program.

Attendees will take a musical journey, starting with the traditions of the holidays like “Simple Holiday Joys,” “A Holiday Melody,” “Little Bolero Boy,” and “Waltz of the Flowers” from “The Nutcracker” and progressing through the story of the holiday with tunes like “The First Noel,” “The Rose, Lo, how a rose e’re blooming” and “Hallelujah!” from “Messiah.” Favorites like “Sleigh Ride,” “Christmas Sing-a-Long” and “Let there be Peace on Earth” and many more will also be performed.

“I am really excited to present this new holiday concert offering to the Triad,” said Maestro Moody. “It is sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit with its combination of upbeat carols and songs and moving spiritual music. ‘Carolina Christmas Spectacular!’ combines the best of the holidays, bringing both the joy and the power of the season to audience members. And yes, Virginia, there will even be a visit from Santa Claus!”

Tickets range from $25 to $65 for adults and $25 to $40 for children two and up and are available in advance by calling the Symphony Box Office at 336-464-0145 or online at www.WSsymphony.org.