Holiday at Peace, a Yuletide variety show, has been a popular fixture in Greenville since 1993.
Longtime fans of the show will notice several new features at this year’s performances, Dec. 6-8 at the Peace Center.
For one, the Greenville Symphony Orchestra’s new music director Lee Mills will take the reins of the annual celebration.
“It’s going to be a fast-paced and highly entertaining extravaganza for the whole family,” Mills said.
In addition to the orchestra, the performances will feature vocalist Siri Howard, a Broadway actress now living in Greenville.
Returning guests International Ballet will be joined by a new group of tap dancers. The ballet dancers and tap dancers will engage in some good-natured competitive dance, Mills said.
In addition, the show will spotlight the Long Branch Baptist Church Gospel Choir.
‘World-class talent’
The popularity of Holiday at Peace inspired the orchestra to schedule a fourth performance this year, a Saturday matinee.
“Each year, we add more spectacular elements to the show featuring world-class talent from the Upstate and nationally, and the demand has grown,” said Jessica Satava, the orchestra’s executive director.
Howard will offer such songs as “In the Bleak Midwinter,” “O Holy Night” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
Howard has appeared in the Broadway musicals “Les Miserables” and “The Sound of Music” as well in national tours of “The Phantom of the Opera” and “Les Miserables.” She is a professor at USC Upstate and is married to Max Quinlan, producing artistic director at Greenville Theatre.
International Ballet dancers will be featured in some scenes from “The Nutcracker.”
The idea of adding a gospel choir was inspired by the fact that “we’re in the South, the heartland of gospel music,” Mills said.
Mills said he’s enjoying the opportunity to contribute to all aspects of the program, including the set and lighting design.
One Holiday at Peace tradition has remained unchanged through the years: Santa Claus is expected to make an appearance.
Want to go?
What: “Holiday at Peace,” conducted by Lee Mills
When: Dec. 6-8
Where: Peace Center, 300 S. Main St., Greenville
Tickets: $25-$65
Info: 864-467-3000 or peacecenter.org
