By Lori Dugan/EAC
THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College (EAC) invites the community to experience the awe and majesty of Handel’s Messiah at its 89th consecutive performance. This beloved holiday tradition will occur in the Fine Arts Auditorium on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 7 p.m. Admission is free, and seating is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Handel’s Messiah, first performed in Dublin, Ireland, in 1742, has become one of history’s most enduring works of sacred music. Composed in just 24 days, the oratorio features texts drawn from the Bible and focuses on the life of Jesus Christ, from prophecy to resurrection. Its powerful choruses, such as the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus, have captivated audiences for nearly three centuries.
This year’s performance will feature EAC’s A Cappella Choir, Resonus, Symphony Orchestra, and the “Messiah Choir,” a community ensemble made up of alumni, local musicians, and Gila Valley residents who come together each year to bring this timeless work to life. Soloists from EAC and the surrounding community will add their voices to the concert, creating a genuinely collaborative celebration of this masterpiece.
“The Messiah is one of the highlights I look forward to each year,” said Gideon Burrows, EAC choir director and conductor of the performance. “The excitement of combining community talent with the college’s ensembles is inspiring. I feel immensely blessed to celebrate and perform this pivotal composition. It’s a tradition that showcases the strength and spirit of our valley during the holiday season.”
Messiah has a long history of being performed during Easter and Christmas. Although initially intended for Easter, it has become an integral part of holiday celebrations worldwide. Its message of hope, joy, and redemption resonates deeply with audiences, making it a perfect centerpiece for EAC’s seasonal offerings.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this powerful work and be part of a tradition that has united EAC and the Gila Valley for nearly nine decades. For more information, please get in touch with Eastern Arizona College’s Fine Arts Department at (928) 428-8359.
EAC looks forward to celebrating the holidays with you through the beauty of Handel’s Messiah!
Additional Historical Context About Messiah:
- Creation Story: Handel wrote the entire oratorio in 24 days in 1741. The composition is divided into three parts, focusing on the prophecy of the Messiah, the Passion and resurrection, and the promise of redemption.
- First Performance: The premiere of Messiah in Dublin on April 13, 1742, was a charity concert that benefited local hospitals and debtors’ prisons. Women were asked to leave their hoop skirts at home to accommodate the large crowd!
- Lasting Legacy: Messiah became a defining work in Handel’s career and solidified his reputation as one of the greatest composers of sacred music. It continues to be performed globally, particularly during the Christmas season.
