INDIANAPOLIS — ’Tis the season for holiday cheer with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra! The ISO brings sparkling magic to Monument Circle with the 37th annual AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration beginning Friday, December 1, through Saturday, December 23, 2023, at Hilbert Circle Theatre in downtown Indianapolis.
Maestro Jack Everly leads ISO for an unforgettable holiday production featuring Broadway star Ben Crawford as host, the return of MOIPEI after their debut performance with the ISO in 2022, tap-dancing Santas, dazzling choreography, and stunning costumes. Ben Crawford was co-host of the Yuletide Celebration in 2012 and 2014. It is known for his memorable performances in Broadway blockbusters, including Les Misérables, Shrek, Big Fish, Charlie & the Chocolate Factory, and many more.
More than two dozen showtimes are available. Tickets are on sale now at IndianapolisSymphony.org.
2023 highlights:
- Maestro Everly continues his tradition of arranging new music for the Yuletide performances and conducting familiar holiday favorites.
- Audiences are in for a treat with a performance from Sherry Hong, ISO’s Acting Assistant Principal Second Violin.
- The talented triplets Mary, Maggy, and Marta are returning for this year’s performances. Known globally as MOIPEI, this trio wows audiences with their harmonies.
- Look for the internationally acclaimed Expressenz Dance Center on stage, too.
- A new awe-inspiring cirque act returns: Nick Hodge is a cirque performer who defies gravity in his daring and breathtaking shows. A nationally and globally ranked Wheel Gymnastics competitor, he’ll perform using a Cyr wheel, a large metal ring that’s only a few inches wide – and he performs feats most people can’t attempt on solid ground.
- Madison Hilligoss brings her tap-dancing talent to the Hilbert Circle Theatre stage. An alumna of the tap dance program at The School at Jacob’s Pillow and NYU, Madison’s recent credits include The Tap Dance Kid (New York City Center Encores!/Off-Broadway), Funny Girl (Pre-Production/Broadway), 42nd Street, and more.
- Aerialist Tracey Benson soars above the stage in gravity-defying feats of graceful choreography. Benson hails from Brisbane, Australia, and has performed professionally across numerous genres, from Carnival Cruise Lines to Cirque du Soleil.
The performance is only part of the tradition. Arrive early for a stroll around Monument Circle, where the Circle of Lights will be on display; then head to Hilbert Circle Theatre for Taylor’s Bakery cookies and hot chocolate in the lobby, photo opportunities with holiday characters and the iconic Christmas tree, and a reading of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” in the Maestro Lounge 30 minutes before showtime.
Tickets may be purchased online at IndianapolisSymphony.org or by calling the Box Office at 317-639-4300.
About Principal Pops Conductor Jack Everly
Maestro Jack Everly has served as the ISO’s Principal Pops Conductor for 20 years and as the Music Director of the AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration, now entering its 37th year. Each year, he arranges new music for the Yuletide performances, along with conducting familiar favorites. Throughout the season, whether he’s leading the ISO through memorable Broadway melodies for the Printing Partners Pops Series or Toy Story for the popular Film Series presented by Bank of America, Maestro Everly is beloved by fans for his musical expertise and charismatic personality. He led the ISO in its first Pops recording, Yuletide Celebration, Volume One, which included three of his own orchestrations.
About the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, at home and thriving in the heart of Indianapolis, offers an exceptional artistic and musical experience. The orchestra is open to all and dedicated to creating an inclusive and innovative experiential environment that is inspiring, educational, and welcoming. The ISO celebrates historically beloved performances while engaging audiences by introducing new voices through programming, including the IU Health Plans Classical Series, the Printing Partners Pops Series, the holiday traditions of AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration, and the popular Film Series presented by Bank of America. For more information, visit the ISO website.
