North Hawaii’s premier choral group, Waimea Community Chorus brings its 21st annual Holiday Choral Concert to the stage at Kahilu Theatre in Waimea. The show will be presented at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14.
The chorale was founded as an outgrowth of Waimea Community Theatre in 1994 and celebrates its 21st anniversary at Christmastime. This season has seen several singers from the early years return to the ensemble. Under the direction of Barbara Kopra, the group has enjoyed a steady increase in size and popularity since she took the helm in 2005. The chorus numbers nearly 60 voices for its twice yearly concert performances.
This year’s concert, entitled “Angels We Have Heard” will continue the holiday focus set by Director Kopra in the preceding several years by combining a serious ‘showcase’ choral piece with selections from several other genres of holiday music, including traditional inspirational carols, international carols, gospel flavored songs, secular favorites and a touch of humor in the annual variation of “Jingle Bells.” Some of the other titles that will be heard in the program include “Magnificat,” “Festival Gloria,” “Baby Born a King,” “Masters in the Hall,” “Celtic Rose,” “He is Born,” “Home for the Holidays,” “Some Children See Him,” and “Do You Hear What I Hear?” The concerts typically include group numbers, all male and all female voice selections as well as songs presented by small groups within the chorus. A sprinkling of solos allows individual members to shine without dampening the strong ensemble spirit that guides the group. Additionally, a 16-piece orchestra of area musicians will accompany the chorus for the gala performances.
Tickets are $18 at the door for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, military and children. Advance purchase tickets, with a presale discount are available at Waimea General Store and Without Boundaries in Waimea, at Waikoloa Mailbox, and at Suite Possibilities in Kailua. Tickets can also be purchased online through the Kahilu Theatre website. More information is available at waimeacommunitytheatre.org, on the group’s Facebook page and by calling 885-5818.