Symphony to perform holiday celebration

Maestro Joseph Caulkins conducts the Southwest Florida Symphony's "A Very merry Pops," on Dec. 20 and 21 at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. The Southwest Florida Symphony celebrates the holidays with a Celticinspired holiday concert the entire family will enjoy. The heartwarming, family favorite - "A Very Merry Pops" - takes place Dec. 20 and 21 at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. Joseph Caulkins conducts both the Saturday 8 p.m. and Sunday 7 p.m. performances which feature the orchestra, chorus, children's chorus and special guests Celine Mogielnicki and the Kellyn Celtic Arts Irish Dance Academy.

"To me the holiday concert is best when it is a mix of traditional favorites and new pieces, but I always like to have a surprise around every corner and this concert is all about surprises!" said Maestro Caulkins. "This is the best holiday concert we've put together so far. It is very visual and fun yet with many moving moments including the performance by Celine Mogielnicki of "The Beautiful Star." This is a rarely-heard German piece which fits her voice perfectly - it will be a poignant part of the program." Many Symphony patrons will remember the up and coming young singer from last year's "The Rising Stars of Opera" program.

The full orchestra, Symphony chorus and Children's chorus will join the festivities. The Children's Chorus will be featured in a set of Jewish melodies, including the well-known Hebrew piece "Rock of Ages." In addition, the Kellyn Celtic Arts Irish Dancers, a multi-generational local performing group, will perform to such pieces as "Lord of the Dance."

This holiday season the Symphony is partnering with the Salvation Army to put toys under treats and food on tables of the area's needy. Help make someone's holiday a little brighter by bringing unwrapped, new toys or canned and non-perishable food items to the concerts. Collection boxes will be in the lobby. The Kellyn Irish Dancers will also perform in the lobby 45 minutes prior to the concert each day.

Tickets are available at the box office Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 418- 1500. Or order on line at www. swflso.org.