The days are getting longer, the air getting nippy, and Piedmont Arts is preparing to offering tidings of joy to the Martinsville and Henry County Community. Bringing back two beloved annual events, the arts organization is ready to play its role in holiday celebrations.
Festivities kick off with the Christmas Tree Lighting in the Gravely-Lester Art Garden. Piedmont Arts is thrilled to host another spectacular tree created by light artist Ian Hogg. A celebration is planned for Thursday, December 5 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. With musical entertainment from the First Baptist Church choir and other guests and visits with Santa Claus, this free event is not one to miss. Holiday crafts and treats will be available.. The tree will illuminate the Art Garden and will be lit nightly until New Year’s Day.
The most highly anticipated holiday event of the season, the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Spectacular, returns with a performance on Sunday, Dec. 8 at 3 p.m. There’s no better way to lift your spirits than with the music of the season delivered in full sound and spectacle by the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra. Reserved seating is $30, general admission is $20, and K-12 students are $10. Family or individual adult WIC cardholders with ID receive free general admission. Tickets can be picked up at Piedmont Arts or at the door on the night of the event. Tickets are on sale now at PiedmontArts.org or by calling the museum. Altrusa will collect non-perishable food items for Grace Network in the lobby during this performance.
This year, David Stewart Wiley conducts the Holiday Pops with all the magical elements you have come to expect — high energy, familiar carols and lots of holiday warmth. The concert will feature guest soloist Michael Lynche. Lynche is a new breed of soul singer with completely classic influences. Undeniable charisma, well-crafted song arrangements and a voice soaked in soul give the big man class all his own. “Big Mike” — as he was known while winning over the hearts of a nation during his stint on American Idol — has talent so versatile, he’s played intimate jazz & blues clubs, 20,000 seat arenas and opera halls with 100 piece orchestras backing him. Through it all “Big Mike” has always had one singular goal: to spread a message of love wherever he goes.
