A singing tree grows in Abilene

Tickets are available and likely won't last long for each of the four performances of the 28th annual Singing Christmas Tree at Abilene Baptist Church in Martinez.

The show, subtitled Celebrate the Glorious Light, begins Friday, Dec. 8, and continues through Sunday, Dec. 10. The free performances begin each evening at 7, with a matinee at 3 p.m. Sunday.

Greg Bearden, the music minister at Abilene, said this year's event tells the story of the birth of Jesus, but also features performers dressed in Victorian-era garb, reminiscent of the stories of Charles Dickens.

"That kind of atmosphere just says 'Christmas,'" Bearden said of the set design and the Dickens stories. The church's 116-member choir will be arranged around a greenery-laden, 40-foot-tall platform to look like ornaments hung on a Christmas tree.

Bearden, who is in his fourth year conducting the tree, said the event is something the whole church rallies behind and that this year will be no exception.

"I think each one is the best one each time we do it," he said.

The music, the choir and 45-piece orchestra are strong this year, he said.

Bearden said the audience should plan to arrive early for a special "pre-tree" musical and comedy routine.Harley Drew, of radio station WGAC-AM (580), will narrate the performance.

Tickets to the show must be reserved through the Abilene Baptist office by calling (706) 869-1774.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Abilene Baptist Church's Singing Christmas Tree

WHERE: Abilene Baptist Church, 3917 Washington Road, Martinez

WHEN: 7 p.m. Dec. 8 and 9, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 10

COST: Free, but tickets must be reserved with the church office.

For more information and to request tickets: Call (706) 869-1774.