WOONSOCKET – More than 1,000 students, family and faculty members gathered together in Precious Blood Church for Mount Saint Charles Academy's annual holiday performance of "Lessons and Carols" December 6,prepared and directed by Marc Blanchette and Greg Cooney.
The evening was filled with choreographed performances of song, music, dance and prayer.
Originally an English tradition that dates back to the late 19th century, "Lessons and Carols" is a Christian service celebrating the birth of Jesus told in nine short Bible readings, combined with the singing of Christmas carols and hymns. Mount's "Lessons and Carols" was instead broken up into five lessons, beginning with the telling of the coming of Christ and ending with a reading from John's Gospel, where he speaks of the Incarnation.
"We've changed it a bit. The British tradition is more formal with readings, organs and choir. We've adapted it so it can be presented by the school ... we incorporate dances, bells and the band," said Blanchette.
The concert, which sold out in a matter of days, included performances by the Excelsior Bellchoir, Mount Saint Charles Bellchoir, Band and Wind Ensemble, Senior High Choir, Junior High Choir, Alpha Children's Choir, Faculty Choir and Liturgical Dancers.
"The scariest part is that we have more than 200 performers involved, and the first time they all practiced together was today at 3 p.m." said Blanchette. "It's amazing to see it all come together."
Because there isn't a space large enough for all of the students to gather and rehearse, each group practiced on their own before coming together for the concert. Timing, choreography, lighting and sound were all perfected at the run through the day of the show.
"We've been doing this show for years, but we're constantly working out the kinks, trying to make improvements for the following year," added Blanchette.
In previous years "Lessons and Carols" has been held at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church, which holds between 300 and 400 people. But as the program grew, Blanchette sought a larger space. Three years ago the program was moved to Precious Blood Church on Carrington Avenue.
"When you look out and see 1,000 people singing along with us, it's really amazing," said Blanchette.
Each year the holiday concerts are a lot of work to pull together, but those involved said it is worth the time and energy.
"Now we'll sit down together tomorrow and start planning for next year," said Blanchette. "It's a great holiday tradition to be part of."
