The annual Christmas events have once again captivated the community with their exceptional performances and cheerful atmosphere bringing everyone together.
Orchestra Performance
The Electric Light Orchestra is a production that brings Christmas cheer to the community through vibrant colors and delightful music.
“I’ve been doing ELO for the past three years,” orchestra member Junior Katherine Keyser said. “I play cello and really enjoy playing in the orchestra, especially during our Christmas concert. The music sounds really cool and unusual, going beyond what people expect from a high school orchestra.”
The event featured a unique blend of traditional and electric instruments, creating an energetic and dynamic performance.
“We get to play all of these fun and energetic Christmas songs with unusual instruments, like the electric ones,” Katherine said. “This year, we had an electric cello, electric bass, drums, and even band kids joining us. It’s a lot of fun to go through a performance with vibrant lights shining and moving around.”
Choir Performance
Feast of Carols is a cherished tradition that brings the community together through singing to celebrate the holiday season. The event, known for its festive atmosphere and remarkable performances, is a highlight of the season for participants and attendees.
“We started practice in October, so we spent two and a half months working on the music, mostly in class,” choir director Alex Medlock said. “The kids were so excited to start preparing for Feast of Carols music, they didn’t mind singing Christmas songs in late September and early October. We sing the pre-concert songs yearly, so the new choir kids learn those songs.”
The night is meticulously planned, divided into three distinct parts that ensure a memorable experience for everyone.
“There’s a concert before the pre-concert in the Blue Auditorium where Vocal Legacy sings some songs,” Medlock said. “Then there’s a pre-concert where we serve soup, and then there’s a concert involving every student in the choir. That happens after we serve the meal. So it’s about a two-hour and 20-minute event.”
Downtown Bryan Lighted Parade
The annual lighted parade held downtown brings the entire community together to celebrate the holidays and get in the Christmas spirit before the break. Bryan ISD is well-represented at the parade, with sports teams and organizations joining in the festivities for the night.
“I’ve always believed in the power of community and how it brings people together, especially through events like these,” Shy-Annes director Taylor Torres said, “I bring my husband and daughter, Thea, to walk the route with us, and they love it too. Thea thinks the whole parade is all for her, and my husband loves to see how happy it makes me feel.”
Torres says that she and her family love the parade, which also brings joy to the Shy-Annes who participate.
“The Shy-Annes feel like little celebrities amongst one of the biggest celebrities ever – Santa Claus,” Torres said. “And the girls take pride in showcasing their unique leadership role as Bryan ISD ambassadors for the entire community.”
Viking Graphics and Animation (VGA) members decorated the main Bryan ISD float, using their designs for the Essential 8 characters and adding Christmas decor to their outfits.
“The energy and enthusiasm from the audience makes all the hard work worthwhile,” VGA sponsor Brian Magouirk said. “It’s a truly rewarding experience that also gives the students recognition for their dedication to this project.”
Varsity cheerleader junior Carleigh Fox says the parade is one of the highlights of her year. She loves helping bring joy to the children who watch the event with their families.
“This event is a highlight of our year,” Carleigh said. “We put so much effort into it; seeing everyone enjoy it is the best part.”
