Terry’s Picks: December 2015
West Michigan Christian web writer Terry DeBoer surveys the landscape for the area's faith-based arts and entertainment events over the coming month. Here are three highlights for December:*Open Eyes Christmas Concert – A good dose of holiday hip-hop, with dance, DJs and spoken word featuring Beacon Light (aka Brandon Clahassey) and other area artists starts at 7 p.m. Fri. Dec. 11 at The Edge, 735 Ritzema Ct. SW, Grand Rapids. The Edge is a hip-hop church where Beacon Light is a worship leader. "Open Eyes" is the title of his forthcoming album. Other performers include Steven Malcolm, Mark Evans, Edify and Michael Nobody, all centering on a Christmas theme. Tickets range from $5 to $11.54. For more information visit online.
*Living Nativity – During the month of December several area churches host Living Nativity displays with actors portraying the figures at the first Christmas. One such program is at Brookside Christian Reformed Church, 3600 Kalamazoo Ave. SE in Grand Rapids. Viewing times are at 7, 7:30 and 8 p.m. Fri - Sun. Dec. 11-13. The re-telling of the Christmas story is accomplished with actors, animals and music. Signing for deaf and hard of hearing persons at all Friday presentations. There is no admission charge. This is the 20th year Brookside has offered this program. Visit online or 616-452-3191.
*Messiah Sing Along – The Chamber Choir of Grand Rapids leads this event - which covers the Christmas portion of the classic oratorio by Handel - at 7:30 p.m. Sun. Dec. 13 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2700 E. Fulton St. Audience members are encouraged to bring their own scores and join in with the voices. The oratorio will be accompanied by strings, organ and harpsichord, and several area soloists will be featured. The choir is directed by Dr. Mark Webb. A drawing will determine a lucky guest who will conduct the "Hallelujah Chorus." Admission is $5 at the door. For more information visit online .
