This holiday season, Performance Santa Fe and Music Before 1800 present a brand-new touring concert, Winter Wassail. The performance provides a refreshing glimpse into music and tales from a long-lost tradition. The performance will take place Friday, December 15, at 7:30 p.m. at the Scottish Rite Temple.
Drawing inspiration from “Christmas, His Masque” by Ben Jonson, performed in the court of James I in 1616, Winter Wassail portrays the vibrant festivities that bloomed under prohibitions, during prolonged nights, and in trying times when gathering was a challenge. Taking a cue from the romantic bond of James I and Anne of Denmark in Oslo, the performance seamlessly weaves a rich tapestry of Scandinavian, Scottish, and Irish traditional songs.
Violinist Bjarte Eike, the artistic leader of Barokksolistene and the creator of the critically acclaimed Alehouse Sessions, collaborates with the multi-talented British dancer, guitarist, and raconteur, Steven Player. Together, they promise to immerse the audience in a world filled with wassails, dance, and playful mischief.
Adding a unique touch, New York City’s most dynamic baroque musicians will captivate the audience by performing by memory and in intimate proximity, offering a warm embrace of wassail, ancient carols, singalongs, and lively folk music spanning from Britain to Norway. Music Before 1800’s esteemed Artistic Director, Bill Barclay, masterfully serves as creative director for the entire presentation.
The video trailer above is for “The Alehouse Sessions,” Bjarte Eike and Barokksolistene’s ever changing and evolving exploration of the music of the English 17th Century tavern.
Winter Wassail is presented through the support of Leah Gordon and Jack Larson. Performance Santa Fe’s 23–24 season is sponsored by Ann Murphy Daily and William W. Daily, Gina Browning and Joe Illick, Robin Black, and Leah Gordon.
Winter Wassail Event Details
A performance offering wassail, ancient carols, singalongs, and lively folk music from Britain and Norway. The traditional winter drink, wassail, both with and without alcohol, will be served. Presented by Performance Santa Fe at the Scottish Rite Temple, 463 Paseo De Peralta, Santa Fe.
Ticket prices range from $95 – $125. $20 Rush tickets (for patrons 30 and under) are available day of the performance, based on availability. Student/educator and family discounts are also available.
Visit the website for more information.
About Performance Santa Fe
Performance Santa Fe has been bringing the world’s best music, dance, and theater to iconic Santa Fe locations since 1937. The organization upholds excellence in the performing arts and brings joy and enrichment to the community. Alongside its extensive performance season, the organization runs dynamic, exciting, and inclusive educational programs for students in the community.
Experience the extraordinary: Performance Santa Fe’s 2023–24 season, featuring 24 performances of music, dance, and theater. Learn more at PerformanceSantaFe.org. Performance Santa Fe is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.
This article was posted by Cheryl Fallstead
