Thrice the festive fun with Bonnie Upwelling

THE Bonnie Upwelling choir is returning to the Bob Pettit Reserve for a performance on December 19.

Your favourite festive choir – adorned in colourful Christmassy costumes and accompanied by the Bonnie Bambinis and Surf Coast Old Times String Orchestra (SCOTSO) – will perform an assortment of traditional and not-so-traditional favourites led by local musician/composer Lucy O’Grady.

“Last year’s event was a debut for the Bonnie Bambinis, and they’ve been having a wow of time learning songs, rehearsing like crazy, to partner with The Bonnie Upwelling choristers,” choir member Mary-Ellen Belleville said.

“The children attend Bellbrae Primary School and the Freshwater Creek Steiner School, and they’ve grown in number (and stature) and will undoubtedly attract their own entourage of mums, dads and grandparents.”

Ms Belleville said singer-songwriter Grace Curnow had written and composed the song “Magic to Me” specifically for the concert.

“The beautiful lyrics written by Grace truly express a collective wish that the special time of sharing we aim for at Christmas should be part of our everyday lives,” she said.

“Grace will be performing her song, on piano, with the choir becoming the back-up singers.

“The SCOTSO will bring along their own musical magic to conclude this songfest.”

Locals are encouraged to gather friends, family, pack a picnic, and enjoy the festive cheer at the Bob Pettit Reserve, 89 Sunset Strip, Jan Juc, Wednesday December 19 from 6pm.

“This is truly a unique community highlight in the festive season calendar – it is a free event – and one that provides a focus to catch up with your community, sharing in the charms of the festive season.”