On Wednesday, December 17, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. in the Mead Theatre of the Schuster Center, the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra and the Dayton Philharmonic Chamber Choir, under the leadership of DPO Artistic Director and Conductor Neal Gittleman, will present Handel’s Messiah. Handel’s Messiah moves this year to the Schuster Center from its usual location of the beautiful Westminster Presbyterian Church. Audiences will enjoy this unique opportunity to hear Handel’s masterwork performed within the world-class acoustics of the Schuster Center this December.
Four talented singers will join the Dayton Philharmonic in this performance, lending their solo artistry to this beautiful holiday tradition. In debut appearances with the Philharmonic are soprano Amy Owens, tenor Anthony León, and bass Allen Michael Jones. Mezzo-soprano Christina Hazenreturns to Dayton after performing the role of Flora in Dayton Opera’s April 2021 production of La Traviata: Essential Opera. The Dayton Philharmonic Chamber Chorus, under the direction of Hank Dahlman, will be featured in this choral masterpiece.
Although Handel’s Messiah speaks directly to the gospel message of the passion and resurrection celebrated at Easter, this angelic piece has become a holiday tradition at Christmastime as well. In three parts, Messiah relates the prophecy of a savior and his coming, his passion and resurrection, and his role in eternal life after death. With no distinguishable characters, the drama relies entirely on the communication of the story of Christ in words, as well as in the powerful, emotionally stirring, and at times heartbreakingly beautiful music of a composer for whom the oratorio proved a personal salvation.
Safety Protocols
The DPAA is excited to welcome audiences back to the 2021–2022 Season. The health and safety of patrons, performers, staff, and volunteers is our top priority. Beginning November 22, 2021, in partnership with DPAA’s venue partner Dayton Live, the following new health and safety protocols will be in place at all performances and events until further notice:
- Vaccination and Testing – Proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing will no longer be required to attend performances at Dayton Live venues, including the Schuster Center and the Victoria Theatre.
- Masks – Masks will be required for all patrons over the age of 6 during the entire visit while attending a DPAA performance or event. Mask must cover both nose and mouth.
Tickets for Handel’s Messiah begin at $5 and can be purchased by calling the box office at (937) 228-3630 or online at www.daytonperformingarts.org. Senior, teacher and military discounts are available at the box office. For more information or to order subscriptions, including flexible subscription types that include performances by Dayton Philharmonic, Dayton Opera and Dayton Ballet, visit www.daytonperformingarts.org.
