AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration – Courtesy of Tom Russo. Used with permission.
Sandi Patty and ensemble. Courtesy of Tom Russo. Used with permission.
It was a momentous opening night of the “AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration ” Friday, when acclaimed Five-time Grammy Award winning vocalist, Sandy Patty performed as the host and headliner of the annual holiday event, alongside the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra led by Principal Pops conductor Jack Everly. Making the night special was the fact that it was the Gospel music icon’s tenth and final time hosting the spectacular annual event that takes place during the entire month of December each year at the Hilbert Circle Theatre.
Having enjoyed the unique opportunity to review every “Yuletide Celebration” since its 1986 debut, I can categorically state that this year’s edition is among the best that I have seen, thus far. That estimation is based on the superb caliber of talent displayed, including that of Patty, “The Voice” herself, the ISO, and the 64 artists, consisting of vocalists, dancers, actors and specialized performers who appeared in the world class extravaganza. Then of course, there were the production values of the concert which were Broadway quality. It is no wonder that symphony orchestras all over the country seek to duplicate this beloved holiday tradition, not only to elevate their own artistic reputations but to fill their coffers as well.
Curtis Bannister – Courtesy of Tom Russo. Used with permission.
For returnees, which include at least three generations of regulars, many of the production numbers such as the tapdancing Santas and “Twas the Night Before Christmas,” “Sparklejollytwinklejingley,” and traditional Christmas Carols, seen in past productions are still present with at least three new ones added to the show. One of those was “Peppermint Parade” which featured Expressenz, an accomplished local dance troupe and the Yuletide Dancers in a piece ingeniously created by longtime “Yuletide” choreographer and stage director Jennifer Ladner.
Standout performances included special guest baritone Curtis Bannister whose leading man looks and beautifully toned vocals in “The Christmas Song,” and medley consisting of “Canti di Natale,” “Gesu Bambino” and “Panis Angelicas,” impressively revealed his opera pedigree, making him a crowd favorite.
Sherry Hong – Courtesy of Tom Russo. Used with permission.
Local performers who shined as members of the ensemble, many of them “Yuletide” veterans, consisted of Shannon Christie, Katy Scarlett Swaney, Michael Humphrey, Danny Kingston Joseph Perkins, Jr, Jared Norman, Doug King and Ian Black.
Stopping the show was Nick Hodge on the Cyr Wheel and contributing comedic flair was Susie Mosher in her characterization of Carol, a “Yuletide” super fan. Larger than life in his portrayal of jovial Santa Claus was Joe Martin.
Turning in a breathtaking performance of “Let it… snow!” was ISO first violinist Sherry Hong whose playing caused a visceral reaction for its artistry and emotional depth. Hong also dazzled in “All I Want for Christmas is You” and “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep.”
As far as the main attraction, there is no one who compares to vivacious Patty when it comes to her formidable vocal talent, dramatic and comedic skills, warmth and the pure showmanship she displays. A one-of-a-kind entertainer who exudes kindness and empathy, on and off the stage, she will be sorely missed as a Yuletide host.
Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra led by Maestro Jack Everly – Courtesy of Tom Russo. Used with permission.
I would be remiss if I did not also praise Executive Producer Ty A, Johnson, vocal director Greg Sanders, costumer Clare Henkel, scenic designers Derek McLane and Gregory Hill, lighting designer Stuart Duke, sound designers Alan Alford and Matt Krane, and head writer Aaron Fuksa for their prodigious contributions.
I encourage anyone who has never seen “Yuletide” to purchase tickets before it is too late. If you have never seen a symphony orchestra perform live or experienced a music giant like Patty or viewed a production created by a topflight production team — now is your chance to take advantage of what I regard as a once in a lifetime cultural experience.
For tickets to “AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration” visit Indianapolissymphony.org
