One of the most exciting events I've been a part of is definately the Disney Candlelight Processional. The show combines an orchestra, chorus, and celebrity speaker to tell the traditional story of Christmas. The experience is truly magical to be a part of. But my regret, just like the one in every show, is that I've never seen it from the audience.
If you plan on doing it right, which many kids did not, it takes alot of practice to learn the many original arrangements of the Chirstmas music. Since Disney would not ever take the chance of the kids messing up the show, they have a main group of their own singers in the center called the christmas tree. In addition to those choir members are the Voices of Liberty, the famous group who perform at Epcot. They are the ones I believe are actually heard, through the magic of MICROPHONES.
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Here is one of the music's arrangers and choir directors. He may have done a good job with the music, but I really think he needs work on his conducting. There were times where he cut us off in the middle of the song, brought us in late, and just confused us. |
When you first arrive at the back of the park, the first thing that happens is they feed you, that's right, it's free! Well, if you don't count the fact that you are doing their show.
After the food comes the practice. Everyone finally see's how the music will come crashing together. It usually isn't too bad, as long as the other people know the music. This is where they also introduce the voices of liberty and the narrator.
Next comes the fittings. Everyone, all couple hundred kids go in to get their choir robes. The robes have been worn for every other performance, and I'm not sure if they are clean...but they don't smell like it. After the robes comes the exciting part. Everyone lines up and prepares to go. The candles are handed out and we go on our way.
The real start of the concert throws the new choir people off guard. Without warning, all the really big, bright lights hit the stage and blind every member on stage. And there are a heck of alot of light's on that roof.
During the concert some very special things happen with the music. During one song, it begins to snow. After another doves are released. One of the years I went some people in my group actually had these "trained" birds come very close to their heads.
After the concert we all return the robes in the back and there is a mad rush for hot chocolate, you'd think they were giving away Disney tickets or something! Then everybody boards their buses and depending on the weather they spend the next week sick, sneezing and coughing as they tell everyone about they're trip.
If ever given the chance to be any part of this spectacular holiday event, don't pass it up. It is something you will always remember and cherish.
