Posted on Nov 17, 2007

There will be a rare opportunity for the public to attend and sing-along when Musicologist and New World Baroque Orchestra Director John Warren presents Handel’s Messiah and other traditional Christmas Carols backed up by a thirty-six piece full orchestra on Sunday, December 2nd at 3P.M. at the Community Church of Atascadero. Tickets are: adults:$ 20.; Children 12 and under $10. This always a very festive and anticipated Holiday event.---the previous two years have been standing room only concerts. This year to accommodate more people there will also be an “open to the public” dress rehearsal performance for half price on Friday, November 30th at 7 P.M. Tickets adults: $10.; Children 12 and under $5. This is a fundraiser for the parent non-profit organization”The San Luis Early Music Consortium.” The program will feature selections from Händel’s “Messiah” and other traditional music of the season performed by the combined choirs of the Community Church of Atascadero, Mission San Miguel, many guest soloists, and the 36 piece New World Baroque Orchestra. Also included will be a colorful and rare performance of “Los Pastores”, the old “Shepherd’s Christmas Play” from the era of the early California Missions, as well as selections honoring Hanukkah “The Festival of Light” and Central-California Native American “Winter Solstice Traditions” performed by Tribal Members and Children of the local Salinan Tribe. This fun-filled family event will conclude with sing-along carols, and after the Sunday performance, a piñata party for the children and refreshments served (refreshment donations to aid the restoration of Mission San Miguel). Community Church is located at 5850 Rosario Avenue (several doors up from Police Station) in Atascadero. Tickets are available at the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce. For more information and other ticket pick-up locations please call: (805) 239-3022.