In its 23rd year, and as popular today as ever, one of this country’s most joyous annual traditions returns to the Sid Williams Theatre on Thursday, Dec. 10 as part of the theatre society’s 2015 – 2016 Blue Circle Series.
A “must-see” ticket on the holiday calendar, Winter Harp is a joyous concert experience that has captured the spirit of the season, and audience’s hearts, for more than two decades.
On stage, Winter Harp’s outstanding musicians and singers, clad in beautiful medieval attire, perform a collection of music that ranges from familiar carols to Celtic, medieval, and world tunes.
Magical backdrops of cathedral and snow set a stage for the golden Celtic and classical harps, drums, tambourines, temple bells, flutes, and an assortment of beautiful ancient and rare instruments, including the ethereal-sounding bass psaltery (the only one like it in the world), theorganistrum (an early form of the hurdy-gurdy), and the Swedish nyckelharpa.
Winter Harp concerts have become destination events, having developed a loyal following from across Canada and beyond. Wherever they’re from, audience members end up in a similar place during the show.
“Christmas is about memories,” says Winter Harp co-founder and director, Lori Pappajohn. “We remember the beautifully-decorated tree, we remember grandparents, we remember the presents we received. At Winter Harp the carols we perform and the stories and poems we read take people into their memories. It’s lovely looking out at the audience. Everyone has their own memories of Christmas. That’s where we journey, and we welcome people of all backgrounds to join us.”
This year’s ensemble of outstanding artists welcomes a new voice in Krista Gibbard, a classically trained soprano whose repertoire ranges from light opera and oratorio to ancient and Celtic music. Krista has performed as a soloist for groups such as the Vancouver Bach Choir and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.
“We were delighted when we found Krista,” said Lori Pappajohn. “She has our exact sound — a crystal-pure voice with a lovely mixture of ancient and Celtic colourings.”
Show sponsor Atlas Cafe will be on hand when the doors open at 6:30 p.m. to serve appetizer samples, and the theatre lounge has hot apple cider on special. Come early and enjoy!
Tickets for this Blue Circle Series performance are $44 for members, $49 for general public, $34 for students and groups of 10 or more. Members can add this show to a SID TIX pack for just $34. Purchase in person at the Ticket Centre Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., by phone 250-338-2430, or online at sidwilliamstheatre.com.
– Sid Williams Theatre Society
