The Blossom Valley Singers mixed choir expects tickets to be a hot item for this year’s Christmas concert, their second season in the new venue at Prince Charles Theatre. The Singing Christmas Tree had to be retired last year when the United Church was no longer available, and some patrons were turned away at the door when last year’s Sunday afternoon performance was sold out.
“It was disappointing to those who missed out, and we regret we had no seats for them,” said BVS president Elvin Strand. “We’re limited to two concerts because of the higher cost of the auditorium, but we hope the word gets out that people should buy advance tickets if they want to be guaranteed a seat.”
This year’s concert is all about Christmas Magic, the sequel to Singing in the Christmas Trees. The choir of more than 60 voices, under the direction of Anita Stushnoff and accompaniment of Monte Anderson, will perform a variety of traditional, ethnic and contemporary carols. Some of the selections will be punctuated with brass, wind and bass accompaniment. Also featured will be the Prince Charles Secondary School choir, the Creston Children’s Choir and the Key of She.
The Blossom Valley Singers has brought choral music to the valley for more than 25 years. Proceeds from ticket sales after expenses are directed to the needs of the growing choir (which had to purchase more risers and back rails) and the community. Two scholarships are awarded annually for deserving students seeking further studies in music. Monies were also directed toward part of the cost of the electronic piano, which has been donated to the PCSS band room. The piano, a welcome addition to the resources available to the choir for rehearsals and performances, will be used in this year’s concert in lieu of the grand piano.
“The grand would be lovely, but we have so many singers and extras, there’s just no room for everything on the stage,” said Stushnoff.
The concert runs Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 9 at 2:30 p.m. Advance tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for under 14 years, available at Black Bear Books or from members of the choir. Tickets at the door are $14 for adults and $10 for under 14.
—BLOSSOM VALLEY SINGERS