Christmas Revels

Once again, at the darkest time of the year, in celebration of the Winter Solstice with traditional dance, processionals, carols & drama, The Christmas Revels blows into the Rialto on its jolly annual assignment to drive the dark away.

This year the Revels draws on the music, dance, stories and traditions of Old Bavaria. This high-spirited concoction of folk tradition and high art includes:

Sankt Nikolaus and his slightly alarming companion Knecht Ruprecht (who carries a switch and lumps of coal); energetic Schuhplattler (shoe slapper) dancing; a light-hearted telling of the gruesome legend of Sankt Nikolaus (it is, afterall, the land of the Brothers Grimm); Frau Holle, a wild, elemental being who creates snowstorms with her featherbed; a hilarious mummers play – German style; the Revels Adult and Children’s Choruses; the Seattle Brass Ensemble; an instrumental ensemble of violin, flute & clarinet; the strange pre-Christian Alpine procession of Perchten; and, of course, a Christmas Tree.

The Christmas Revels is a seasonal gift to the community of song, dance, beauty, foolery and a splash of audience participation. The celebration seems to re-enliven the essence of long ago communities as it weaves the past into the present for audiences, who gather together from all parts of the Pacific Northwest. The Christmas Revels is a joyous, timeless celebration for all ages.

The Christmas Revels

When:
Saturday, December 17, 2011 at 2:00 & 7:30 p.m.
(12/17 @ 7:30 p.m. is ASL interpreted)
Sunday, December 18, 2011 at 1:00 & 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Rialto Theater
Cost: Tickets: $12, $22, $27
Details: www.pugetsoundrevels.org