On Friday, Nov. 30, choir hosted their 7th annual Candlelight Night dinner. The performances and menu were by far the most dramatic changes since year one.
The first and most obvious change of the year was the addition of assistant choir director Jordan Bennett.
“I think one of the best things about a traditional choir program is doing whatever you can to keep the tradition going, and just doing as many things possible to perform for the community,” said Mr. Bennet.
Another vast change in the Candlelight Night dinner is that Strata is performing for the first time ever. The sophomore girl’s choir typically only seats and serves guests, but this year, they sang along with Camerata and Bel Canto.
“I’ll be back in the kitchen making sure that everything is served and timed perfectly,” says Mr. Bennet, “but I will come out towards the end and direct Strata.”
The change most noticeable for the guests will be the menu change, which is being catered by Mama Z’s, an Italian eatery in Tontitown. The menu consists of spaghetti, green beans, a roll, and triple-chocolate cake. In the past the guests were served lasagna, which was made by former assistant choir director Clint Pianalto.
The catering change also prompted a $5 increase in ticket prices, making the evening priced at $25 per ticket. The night featured over two hours of entertainment by Camerata, Bel Canto, Strata, and Lighthouse, along with many spotlight solos from Lighthouse members.
Choir director Randy Erwin anxiously anticipates the Christmas season of song as well as the remainder of the choir year because of the more evenly matched choirs, Bel Canto and Camerata.
“It’s going to be more even,” said Mr. Erwin. “My goal will be to walk out going ‘Now which one was the best choir?’ because they were all really good.”
The songs will all be a cappella, with the exception of certain spotlight solos. There will even be a soprano saxophone performance on this year’s unique setlist.
For a night of excellent food and entertainment, the choir presented a rare opportunity to see the cafeteria dressed to its holiday best at the annual Candlelight Night dinner.
