On Friday, Nov. 30, choir hosted their 7th annual Candlelight Night dinner show, which 290 people attended. This year’s 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 Mr. 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, who is excited to become a part of the traditions in the choir program.
Another vast change in this year’s Candlelight Night dinner theater is that Strata performed for the first time ever. The sophomore girl’s choir typically only seats and serves guests, but this year, they shared in the glory with Camerata and Bel Canto, performing “Carol of the Bells.”
“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.” Strata’s performance was an exciting first for the choir program.
The change most noticeable for the guests was the menu change, which was catered by Mama Z’s this year. The menu consisted of spaghetti, green beans, a roll, and triple-chocolate cake. The food was delicious as always, but the main change was the switch from lasagna to spaghetti.
The change to catering also prompted a $5 raise in ticket prices, making the lovely evening priced at $25 per ticket. The ticket money went to pay for the catering, to buy candles, and to support the choir when traveling.
The night had over two hours of entertainment by Camerata, Bel Canto, Strata, and Lighthouse, along with many spotlight solos from Lighthouse members.
Choir director Mr. Randy Erwin is anxiously anticipating 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,” says Mr. Erwin, “my goal will be that walk out going ‘now which one was the best choir?’ because they were all really good.”
The songs performed by the choirs were all a cappella, with the exception of certain spotlight solos. There was also a soprano saxophone performance on this year’s unique setlist.
For a night of excellent food and entertainment, and a rare opportunity to see the cafeteria dressed to it’s holiday best, the annual Candlelight Night dinner is the best. And the best part, every year it keeps getting better!
