The Magic of Christmas is on its way to becoming a traditional favorite among Presbyterians in the greater Charlotte area
Private performance by the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra will ultimately provide support to congregations
On Thursday, December 3, the Presbyterian Foundation Group welcomed more than 1000 members of the Presbyterian community in Charlotte, NC to a private performance of the popular holiday concert, the Magic of Christmas. The annual performance by the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra is held in the Belk Theatre, North Carolina Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.
The concert featured many holiday favorites performed by the Symphony as well as vocalists including the Oratorio Singers of Charlotte and Charlotte's Children's Choir. Other guest artists provided an exciting variety of musical styles.
"A wonderful evening, with splendid music, an enthusiastic conductor, and shared with over 1000 friends from the Presbyterian community. What a magnificent way to celebrate the Christmas Season!" said Paul H. Grier, Acting Vice President, Development for the Presbyterian Foundation.
The private performance, sponsored for the third straight year by the Presbyterian Foundation Group, was organized through the partnership with the congregations in Charlotte and the nearby area. Ticket sales will ultimately result in a donation to the congregation of the ticket holder. More than 50 area churches indicated their desire to participate in the event. This year over $28,000 will be donated to these congregations.
Mike Warner, Vice President of Development for the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra commented, "I noticed the audience was different from that of our regular series of performances. During the intermission, people were socializing with others seated near them and in the lobby. There was really a sense of community."
The event was a first for interim president and CEO of the Foudnation, Dick Clay. His reaction was one of pure joy, "The Magic of Christmas was simply magical! It was fun to enjoy the Charlotte Symphony during Advent with Charlotte-area Presbyterians."