At the UGA Performing Arts Center, tiny lights blanket the lobby, and Christmas trees adorn the stage. That means it’s time for the Holiday Music Series, in which prominent artists sing and play seasonal music at Hodgson Concert Hall.
An annual tradition returns Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m. as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Chorus present the Christmas portion of Handel’s “Messiah” and the “Hallelujah” Chorus, led by conductor Norman Mackenzie. Before intermission, the orchestra, chorus and soloists perform J.S. Bach’s “Magnificat.”
“Messiah” alternates between vivid choruses and virtuosic vocal solos. The cast for this year’s performance includes returning baritone Lawson Anderson, noted for his “powerful, darkly hued voice and nobility of carriage” (Cleveland Classical). Soprano Adelaide Boedecker has been described as “emotionally transparent and beguiling of tone” (San Francisco Chronicle). Mezzo-soprano Rhianna Cockrell is a specialist in Baroque, Renaissance and contemporary music; her performances have been called “unforced” and “resolute” (Oregon Arts Watch). Tenor Thomas Cooley has sung extensively in Europe, Asia and 30 American states.
Mackenzie’s abilities as musical collaborator, conductor and concert organist have brought him international recognition. As Director of Choruses for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) since 2000, he was chosen to help carry forward the creative vision of legendary founding conductor Robert Shaw. During his tenure, the chorus has made numerous tours and garnered several Grammy awards, including Best Classical Album and Best Choral Performance. At the ASO, he prepares the choruses for all concerts and recordings, works closely with Nathalie Stutzmann on the commissioning and realization of new choral-orchestral works and conducts holiday concerts.
This performance is supported by David Coker and Sharon Price.
Three ways to get tickets
- Purchase tickets online at pac.uga.edu.
- Call the Performing Arts Center box office at 706-542-4400, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Visit the UGA Performing Arts Center box office, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (five-minute parking is available in the drop off circle at the Performing Arts Center for purchasing or picking up tickets.)
Audience members can create their own series of three or more performances for 10% off. UGA Presents single tickets start at just $25 with promo code PAC25, and UGA student tickets are $10. Parking is free.
To learn more about all UGA Performing Arts Center events, visit pac.uga.edu.
