Meota’s Merry Christmas Concert heralded in Christmas cheer, tradition and joy this year. A sold out audience appreciated its many varied talents.
There was singing of Christmas tunes by many local talents including Dave Tupling performing I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day along with our very own Beach Ave Boys. Lisa Hornung, accompanied by John Chipak, sang O Bright Star of Bethlehem. Meota Men’s Choir along with Battlefords Blend harmony chorus and Our Lady of Fatima choir all provided entertainment with good melody and tuneful harmony.
Zaide Masich played the cello to a wonderful arrangement of O Come O Come Emmanuel. Jo Carter accompanied her on the piano. In the background was a group of small children performing the nativity, which included one lost little lamb who captured the hearts of the audience.
Oscar the Grouch popped out of his garbage can and chatted with Charles Baillargeon, who tried to convince Oscar to be merry at Christmas time.
Erin Foreman brought her students to perform a brilliant Christmas medley along with O Holy Night. People are amazed at the talent of this group. They are a true joy to watch and perhaps envy. Erin also performed a stunning rendition of What Child is This. Cayla Ellis provided drama by dancing to this song with elegance and absolute grace. The audience was extremely impressed with this art form.
Linda Jones played Mrs. Claus and Lloyd Deshaye performed as Santa. Everyone has their marital issues and Santa and Mrs. Claus are no exception. Anne Baillargeon wrote, I’ll be Home for Christmas, a play that shows Mrs. Claus wanting a change of lifestyle. It appears putting the elves in boarding school, cashing in their RRSPs, TFSAs and selling their northern property to Husky Oil is an option. Santa recommends staying the course while spending the off-season in Meota.
Jo and Stephen provided a gorgeous rendition of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. Jo’s talent at the piano is complimented by Stephen’s ability to make his saxophone sound magical. It is a gift to this community to have our neighbours and friends share their musical skills.
Fr. Peter Nnanga currently serves the Spiritwood area as priest. He is from Nigeria and is about to spend his second winter in Saskatchewan. Fr. Peter could not attend the dress rehearsal, but was emphatic by saying that we Canadians are always so organized. “Be spontaneous,” was his remark and, “trust in God.” No one was disappointed with his charismatic nature and humour. He quickly had most of us singing and clapping.
With heartfelt appreciation we wish to thank all who participated in this concert including the audience, the performers and the producers. Your kindness is passed forward to the Battlefords Empty Stocking Fund, where it is continuously passed forward to those in need.
