Handel’s <i>Messiah</i> returns

A southeastern Utah Christmas tradition returns for another year with the 2007 performance of The Messiah by George Frederick Handel.

Free performances of the renowned musical oratorio will be held on Sunday, December 9 at the LDS Stake Center in Blanding, and Sunday, December 16 at the LDS North Chapel in Monticello. Performances begin at 7 p.m.

Under the direction of Derryl Jack, a choir of 100 voices and the largest orchestra in years will tackle one of the world’s most popular musical works.

Soloists at the performances will include Joseph Wetherford, Todd Hall, Carol Martin, Lynda Boyle, Laura Butler, Jacqualine Redd, Ruth Wilson-Francisco, Alison Montgomery, Cindi Holyoak, Jill Slack, Relva Bowring, Janelle Jack, Theresa Francom, Kayla Holyoak, Mark Bake, Abigail Larson, and Joe Lyman.

Section leaders include Soprano: Lorelei Andrews over sopranos, Tara Dawn Olsen over altos, Richard Ward over tenors, Derald Kurtz over bass, Mary Ann Lyman over the orchestra, and organist Jacque Moses.

Refreshments will be provided after each performance.