- December 12, 2024
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Even for those who already can picture a singing Christmas tree, there was something they wouldn’t have anticipated seeing during the 50th Annual Singing Christmas Tree Spectacular.
The performance, featuring a large centerpiece styled as a Christmas tree, which is adorned with over 10,000 lights and holds church choir members, has grown in scale across its 50 years.
For the third year in a row, a segment of the performance depicting the Nativity saw live animals, including camels and sheep, walking the church aisles, while the show also welcomed former Broadway performer J. Mark McVey.
Yet Senior Pastor Dr. John Cross believes what defines the appeal of the singing tree is its focal point.
“I believe it's the star, not the star that we might think of, but the star is Jesus, and Jesus promised that if we lift him up, then he would draw people to Himself,” he said.
Since the tradition began at the 122-year-old church, it has been reimagined with a more elaborate production. The experience brings together church members, from dancers to soloists, while depicting scenes that include the Nativity and the arrival of Santa Claus.
Cross said they are grateful to their staff team that begins planning months in advance, including volunteers in various roles, attendants who serve roles from ushers to parking attendants, and the performers themselves, with about 250 people being involved.
Courtney West, the church's director of modern worship and a soloist in the performance, shared his gratitude.
“There's a great spirit amongst all of those involved, who truly love this city and who want their friends, their family, their co-workers, who maybe aren't as familiar with the Christmas story to come and experience it for themselves," she said. "And so that's why they put forth all the months of effort."
One committed member of First Sarasota's community is Melva Hipps, 80, who has sung in all 50 shows. She was raised in the church, joining the adult choir as soon as she was old enough to do so.
“I think it just helps keep me grounded in what Christmas is all about and celebrating Jesus' birth and what it means to the world…” she said. “It just seems unreal that it's been 50 years, but it's been so enjoyable, and things every year have been different, and it's just been a special time, to see all the different people and how it affects their lives and their celebration of Christmas too.”
J. Mark McVey said he enjoys the welcoming community of First Sarasota
The Bonita Springs resident performed in “Les Miserables” on Broadway, in the role of Jean Valjean, thousands of times, but ultimately gave up theater in 2012 to focus on concert work, including church performances around the country.
“It's not always a joy to perform on Broadway…” he said. “It was a difficult decision to make, but I wasn't seeing a whole lot that I was right for, and the things that I was right for, there were thousands of people that wanted to do them.”
However, he said he loves the work he does today, and said he finds a welcoming family in church communities, including First Sarasota.
“I think, one of the greatest gifts that I was ever given is that ability to sing, and God made it possible for me to make a living at it… so what is so very special about the job that I have is that I enjoy it, and so I can say that I've enjoyed every single job that I've ever done in the theater, or in a church or in a school.”
Dancer J.B. Baldwin highlighted the talent found within First Sarasota's community.
“I think there's an incredible amount of talent that we're blessed to have in this church, and from the singers to the dancers and all the special effects, the lighting, it's a wonderful production, and it's nice to be a part of it, to back up some of these talented people, and help share the story of Christ with the community.”
