Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, Ballet Company Celebrate The Holidays

FRANKFORT, IL — In a celebration of the holidays, the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra will serve as the live orchestral accompaniment for Ballet 5:8’s production of Beyond the Nutcracker on Dec. 13 and Dec. 14 at Lincoln-Way North in Frankfort.

“The holidays are always better when celebrated with music and cheer,” says IPO Executive Director Christina Salerno. “IPO is fortunate to be able to celebrate the holidays this year alongside so many other talented musicians and performers to provide what promises to be incredible holiday memories.”

On Dec. 13 and 14, IPO will settle into the orchestra pit at Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center in Frankfort, as they perform the live score to Ballet 5:8’s performances of Beyond the Nutcracker, according to a news release. There are three performances: at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets for these performances are available at Ballet58.org.

IPO will also host the IPO Music Festival: A Celebration of Voice & Music at Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights on Dec. 20. The orchestra will be joined onstage by the famed Chicago Community Chorus for a program of holiday favorites, including a full audience sing-along.

IPO is led by Gibb Music Director Stilian Kirov while Chicago Community Chorus is headed by Artistic Director and Founder Dr. Keith Hampton.