By Melissa Smalley
It wouldn't be the holiday season without a festive singalong and performance by Eclectica Community Choir, an annual event set to take place in 100 Mile House this weekend.
The ensemble presents Carols of Christmas – a benefit concert in support of the 100 Mile House Food Bank and Loaves & Fishes Outreach – will feature a diverse collection of songs by the choir, as well as some solo and small group performances.
An audience sing-a-long of popular Christmas carols will round out the afternoon, according to organizers.
The entertainment will take place Dec. 11 at Martin Exeter Hall (behind the Red Coach Inn), with pre-concert music starting at 1:40 p.m., and the show kicking off at 2 p.m.
Choir director Marilyn Buyar says the group has a wide variety of pieces prepared, which will showcase a range of genres, singing styles and skills.
"There is a huge variety in the repertoire we have planned, from Ave Verum Corpus, which is a very solemn, introspective piece, to Stompin' Tom Conner's ever-popular Hockey Song, and everything in between."
In addition to the choir's program – which will include some fun Christmas classics sure to have the audience dancing in their seats – Buyar says there are some solo and ensemble performances in the works that will highlight the range of talent found within the 55-member community choir.
The choir will also be accompanied by a guest organist, Daven Mapson who will join the group for a timely piece called December's Keep.
The annual Christmas benefit concert is a popular event for the choir, Buyar notes, and provides the perfect opportunity for residents to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season and enjoy some festive fun.
"I think the fact that it's admission by donation means that really anybody can attend – cost is not an issue.
"It's also a great way to kick off the Christmas season. Sometimes, when you're busy getting ready for Christmas, it's nice to pause and reflect upon the memories of years past, and celebrate the connections we have in the community."
Admission to the event is by cash donation and all funds raised will go to the local food bank and Loaves & Fishes Outreach.
"We have a great deal of fun singing together and we're always so happy to be able to share the music with the community."