The holidays are right around the corner, and from local productions of “The Nutcracker” to the magic of Disney Hall, there’s no shortage of ways to get in the spirit.
Talented stars such as Aaron Neville, longtime Malibu resident Julie Andrews, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Idina Menzel and Angeles Philharmonic Association celebrate the holidays with the annual Deck the Hall holiday series, and that’s just the beginning.
The Los Angeles Master Chorale hosts its “Festival of Carols” at the Disney Concert Hall. Heavenly voices will fill the air with favorites old and new on Dec. 8 and Dec. 15 at 2 p.m.
LAMC is bringing back its popular “Rejoice!” program and Handel’s “Messiah” as well as the “Messiah Sing-Along.”
The Los Angeles Philharmonic has a special program of its own. It kicks off Dec. 12 with “A Chanticleer Christmas.” With a fresh take on seasonal classics, from serene chants to vibrant spirituals, this much loved tradition always makes for a unique and radiant holiday experience.
If you’ve ever been to the hall, you know its centerpiece is the spectacular organ; it’s a sight to behold and a treat for the ears. The beauty and majesty of this one-of-a-kind instrument will be showcased in the annual “Holiday Organ Spectacular,” featuring organist David Higgs. The concert combines sacred and traditional holiday music, including carols and other classics.
On Dec. 18, it’s the one and only Aaron Neville.
Celebrating the season with New Orleans holiday cheer, Aaron brings his signature vibrato and unique voice to Christmas carols, R&B favorites and some classic pop tunes for a special one-night-only performance. Since his first chart success with the number one single “Tell It Like It Is,” and through his work with the musical dynasty known as the Neville Brothers, Aaron has remained a soulful musical force for more than 50 years.
Want your holidays with an island spin? Check out “Don Tiki’s Hot Lava Holiday Show” on Dec. 20.
Honolulu’s legendary Don Tiki brings together musicians, vocalists and dancers to reinvent jungle jazzy sounds. The band features Hawaii’s top musicians with cumulative experience ranging from punk to jazz fusion to world beat. It also has a devoted following including world traveler and “No Reservations” host Anthony Bourdain who raved “…it really doesn’t get much better than this!”
On Dec. 21, the joint will be jumping with “A Swinging Christmas with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.” These hipsters rarely disappoint, always get you on your feet and deliver a show that’s cool enough to keep the snowman from melting.
On Dec. 22 Julie Andrews is the special guest at the “Holiday Sing-Along.”
Then ring in the New Year with Tony Award-winning actress, singer and songwriter Idina Menzel.
So no matter what you’re up for this holiday season, there are festive choices for every musical taste. Ho! Ho! Ho!