Last night Yo, Ava and I went to see a performance of the Washington Christmas Revels, a Nordic Celebration of the Winter Solstice. I knew  about them when I was living in Portland, but never had a chance to see them. There are ten groups that perform around the country. It’s a big production here, with around 100 singers, dancers and musicians.

A Nordic Celebration

For those of you who have never been, it’s a mix of ancient stories, traditional song and dance, humorous skits, and musical interludes, all organized around a cultural theme. Each year is different, although there are traditions that reappear every year, like The Horn Dance, a ritual intended to bring good luck for hunting stag. You might want to try it sometime.

The mountain witch

Intermission is signaled by the song, Lord of the Dance, where the cast leads the audience from their seats, joining hands while singing and winding their way out of the auditorium. Nordic Brass, an awesome quintet, was featured throughout, and like their string counterpart, played through intermission in the lobby – up close and personal.

Washington Revels Cast

The show always ends with the whole house singing the Sussex Mummer’s Carol, leaving everyone in the holiday spirit. If you have a chance, it’s a great thing to do with the kids!