Merry, Merry Chicago!

Dec 15-23, 2023

Overview

Symphony Center’s beloved tradition continues with members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performing familiar carols and festive holiday songs, including I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Winter Wonderland and Sleigh Ride. They are joined by the sensational Ashley Brown, who originated the title role of Mary Poppins on Broadway and has been celebrated as “the most versatile and noteworthy young talent on the Broadway stages” (Showbiz Chicago). Thomas Wilkins conducts this celebration guaranteed to inspire holiday cheer in listeners of all ages.

Recommended for ages 5 and up.

Program
Traditional, arr. Paul Campbell

A Christmas Celebration Overture

Gannon/Kent/Ram; arr. Reineke

I'll Be Home for Christmas

Pola/Wyle, arr. Kessler

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Suppé

Overture to The Beautiful Galathea

arr. Stephenson

Joy to the World

Adam, arr. Clydesdale

O Holy Night!

Silvestri, arr. Brubaker

The Polar Express Suite

Smith Jr.

This Little Light of Mine

Raimi

Herald Angels

Offenbach

Overture to Orpheus in the Underworld

Bernard/Smith, arr. Berens

Winter Wonderland

Whatley/Schermerhorn, arr. Hamilton

I Believe

Anderson

Sleigh Ride

Arr. by Reineke; Orch. by Shoup

Holiday Hits Medley

Extras

Enhance your concert experience.

Special Merry, Merry Chicago! preconcert dining options

Enhance your concert experience by enjoying a seasonal three course holiday dinner for two with wine pairings at Forte. Or enjoy a roaring fireplace and sweeping views of Lake Michigan with a delectable two course holiday menu at the Thomas Club. Learn more »

Forte: Make a reservation | View menu
The Club: Make a reservation | View menu


Preconcert Event

On Sunday, December 17, the CSO Latino Alliance will host a preconcert networking event. Tickets required for entry. Learn more at CSO Latino Alliance »


Preconcert and Intermission Performances

Audience members can enjoy seasonal favorites preconcert and during intermission, when school and community ensembles perform throughout Symphony Center.


Postconcert Dining

For the month of December, Forte will be open postconcert for two hours after most concerts. Following matinee concerts on Fridays and Sundays, Forte will serve a selection of mezze and desserts alongside the bar menu. Following evening concerts on Fridays and Saturdays, Forte will serve beverages from the bar and limited snacks. View Forte’s December hours »

Sponsors

Discover more on Experience CSO
Thomas Wilkins looks forward to leading this season's Merry, Merry Chicago! concerts. “I can be funny or I can be professorial or I can be anecdotal. There is a constant communication with the audience."
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Broadway star Ashley Brown believes “there is something extra-special" about Merry, Merry Chicago! "It revolves around family, and I like to see all the families together, the grandparents and the kids. And everyone loves Christmas songs.”
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From "Home Alone" to "A Chanticleer Christmas" to "Merry, Merry Chicago!" Symphony Center will host an extensive lineup of events that capture the festive spirit of the holiday season.
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