Magic of Christmas

The Edmonton Singing Christmas Tree returns with all the razzle-dazzle of previous years and then some.

Now in its 45th season, this two-hour-plus variety show is themed The Magic Of Christmas. It is packed with children’s choirs, a 50-dancer Santa kick line, and a special presentation from Firefly Theatre and Citie Ballet. And let’s not forget 135-member choir packed onto a 35-foot high tree the equivalent height of a four-storey building.

It all takes place at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium from Dec. 18 to 21.

In past years executive producer John Cameron has produced stellar lineups of international stars that ranged from American Idol soul singer Ruben Studdard to the Canadian Tenors.

This year Cameron cast his net in Alberta’s back yard and landed one of our brightest young country artists – Brett Kissel. A huge hit with commercial radio and fans alike, Kissel picked up two Canadian Country Music Awards in September and toured with Brad Paisley across Canada.

“I first worked with him in another concert in 2009. Since then he’s grown and developed and become an icon in Canada. And we are more than happy to have him lead the show,” said executive director-producer John Cameron.

As much as Cameron is pleased with the block-buster lineup, he is even more eager to let folks know that John Cameron Entertainment’s mission is to change lives.

Since 2009, when this Vegas-style show was resurrected from the ashes of the more sacred-sounding Singing Christmas Tree performed at the now defunct Central Tabernacle, it has raised more than $600,000.

The funds generated are directed to a variety of projects: Santas Anonymous, The Christmas Bureau and the Edmonton Food Bank. Last year, the organization even purchased musical instruments for children in low-income schools.

“Entertainment is my passion and I’m there to give back,” Cameron said. An accomplished singer and pianist, he will also tickle the ivories and join the lineup of singers.

“This concert is not like the Nutcracker where every year it’s the same. Our artists are different and our song choices are different. We’ve added different dances and we’ve added bigger things.”

“People will feel good when they leave the production and know the ticket price will go to someone who doesn’t have a meal or toy or a bed to sleep in.”