?Holiday Spectacular? is back

Following last year?s success, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is mounting its second “Holiday Spectacular,” a show on such a grand scale, it rivals any extravaganza seen on New York?s Great White Way.

“This is an epic-size production,” said producer Dori Armor. “With its performers, sets and costumes, it?s as spectacular as anything seen on Broadway ? only now it?s in our own backyard.”

A cast of more than 100 dancers, singers and entertainers, along with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, will perform holiday classics such as “Deck the Halls,” the “Carol of the Bells” and ” ?Twas the Night Before Christmas,” all under the direction of BSO Principal Pops Conductor Jack Everly.

“We?ve been working on this year?s show since the curtain came down on last year?s,” Everly said. “No other holiday entertainment can offer so much and an entire symphony orchestra on-stage.”

Hosting this year?s celebration is vocalist Sandi Patty. The recipient of 39 Dove Awards, five Grammy awards, and four Billboard Music Awards, she was also a 2004 Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductee.

“[Patty] is one of the most talented performers on the American scene today and I am delighted she is with us,” Everly continued.

Piano Juggler Dan Menendez, seen on “TheTonight Show,” adds a comedic element with his award-winning musical hijinks. His act could only be topped by the Baltimore School for the Arts dancers, who were outrageously popular in their debut last holiday season, and will once again be on hand dressed as the Tap-Dancing Santas.

“I have to admit, when I consider all the facets that form the BSO Holiday Spectacular, even I find it overwhelming,” said Everly.

IF YOU GO

The BSO Holiday Spectacular

» Venue: Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St., Baltimore

» Times: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and Dec. 21, 22 and 23; 2 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday and Dec. 23

» Tickets: $25 to $75; call the BSO Ticket Office, or visit www.baltimoresymphony.org