The Natchez Festival of Music returns to Christmas in Natchez with two special December events.

A Christmas Cabaret begins at 7 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Natchez Convention Center and promises a happy, upbeat evening filled with a dynamic, high-energy blend of music with modern and hip-hop dancing and a lot of holiday spirit.

This stage production of Christmas songs performed by professionals is guaranteed to keep everyone spellbound and laughing with medleys and parodies and a bit of Rockalarious and Jinglesterical comedy.

This is the perfect event for a gathering of family, friends and office staff celebrating the best time of the year. There may even be a special cameo appearance by James Brown “Get On Up” movie director Tate Taylor, and a few other surprises.

Talk about some fun!

To read about the fabulous fare and special beverages available via pre-order and the table decorating contest, visit the Festival’s website at natchezfestivalofmusic.com.

This is the perfect event for family get-togethers, groups and office parties. Tickets are $35 each or $300 for a table of 10 and are available from Natchez Pilgrimage Tours at 601-446-6631.

At 7 p.m. Dec. 8, the Alcorn State University Fine Arts Department presents its choir ensembles in concert at St. Mary Basilica under the direction of favorite Donna Schaffer.

The program will feature G. F. Handel’s “Messiah” with orchestra. This event has become a beloved holiday tradition in Natchez and is not to be missed by anyone who delights in hearing live music performed by talented singers in a beautiful venue.

And because the concert is free, it is a wonderful opportunity for families to celebrate the season together and for children to experience a type of Christmas music they may not have previously heard.

Arrive early, as the church will fill quickly!

Tickets are also available through Natchez Pilgrimage Tours for the Festival’s 24th “All You Need is Love” in 2014 when many concerts, stage performances and recitals will be held at fabulous venues, including beautiful, historical homes, churches and buildings in Natchez throughout the month of May.

The season’s signature event will be a 50th Anniversary Tribute to The Beatles Coming to America starring the Classical Mystery Tour.

The crowd will not be disappointed in the Classical Mystery Tour group because the performers are about the best I’ve seen for the look and sound of John, Paul, George and Ringo.

The Los Angeles Times says they are more than just an “incredible simulation.” Visit classicalmysterytour.com or YouTube for more.

That will be a huge weekend in Natchez during the monthly Second Saturday weekend, and it is not too early to book hotel and B&B accommodations.

 

Jay Dean is artistic director for the Natchez Festival of Music.