Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts Presents CHRISTMAS IN THE CARIBBEAN, 12/15

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn College continues its 2012-2013 World Stages series with Christmas in the Caribbean with The University Singers. Always a favorite at Brooklyn Center, Jamaica's cultural ambassadors return with a joyous holiday program on Saturday, December 15, 2012 at 8pm. Tickets are $45/$36 (orchestra/mezzanine), and can be purchased by phone at 718-951-4500 (Tues-Sat, 1pm-6pm), or online at www.BrooklynCenterOnline.org.

This year's show will include a mix of Christmas music, Caribbean rhythms, and Jamaican songs, and features a tribute to Jamaica's 50th anniversary of independence. The program will begin with Christmas classics composed and arranged by members of The University Singers. Holiday programming includes songs like "The First Noel," "Mary Did You Know," and "O Holy Night," followed by festive Jamaican Christmas songs such as "When the Star of Bethlehem Arise" and "Never a Baby Like Jesus," both arranged and composed by the group's musical director, Noel Dexter.

The second half features Caribbean and Jamaican folk music. The essence of the group's culture is brought to life through colorful costuming and traditional movements. Storytelling songs include "De River Ben Come Dung," "Love in de Cemetery," and "Dalfus Gone." The show ends with homage to Jamaica's 50th anniversary through a suite of reggae, dancehall, and festival songs. Christmas in the Caribbean promises to entertain and leave everyone feeling that they have just experienced the yuletide season, Caribbean and Jamaican style.