The New Westminster Symphony Orchestra and the Richmond Academy of Dance are once again joining forces to welcome in the festive season.
The two groups are teaming up for their 20th annual collaboration, Dance Into Christmas, on Friday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at the Massey Theatre.
The celebration, which includes songs, dances, music and storytelling, will be hosted by New Westminster actor Russell Roberts. Mezzo-soprano Ingrid Mapson will be a featured guest star, offering up holiday melodies including Mel Torme’s Christmas Song and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.
Conductor Jin Zhang will lead the orchestra in a program of holiday favourites including Hawley Ades’ Carol Festival, Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride and Prokofiev’s Troika from the Lieutenant Kijé Suite.
The Richmond Academy of Dance will be featured in Émile Waldteufel’s Skater’s Waltz, Wintertide and the musical theatre number There Is a Santa Claus, from the movie Elf, as well as the Dance of the Knights from Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet.
The second half of the concert will feature the annual highlight: the dancers’ performance of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker with special guest artists, and the symphony’s rendition of Anderson’s Christmas Festival.
Tickets are $20, available through www.ticketsnw.ca or 604-521-5050.
