What to Expect at the Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert: A Complete Guide

The Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert is one of the most anticipated events in the United States, drawing thousands of attendees and millions of viewers worldwide. This year’s event promises to be as memorable as ever, with a star-studded lineup and heartwarming stories that reflect the true spirit of the season. Whether you’re planning to attend in person or watch from home, this guide will help you understand what to expect.

The Star-Studded Lineup

For the first time in its 20-plus-year history, the Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert has featured a married couple as guest artists. Broadway star Stephanie J. Block and her husband, Sebastian Arcelus, are set to perform at this year’s concerts. Both have had impressive careers on stage and screen, making their collaboration a unique and exciting moment for fans.

Who Is Stephanie J. Block?

Stephanie J. Block began her career on Broadway, where she gained recognition for her role in the original production of Wicked. She later reprised the role of Elphaba in the national tour and on Broadway. Block has also appeared in The Cher Show, which earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 2019. Her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence make her a perfect fit for the holiday concert.

Block recently performed as The Baker’s Wife in a revival of Into the Woods alongside her husband, Sebastian Arcelus. Their chemistry on stage and off has made them a beloved duo in the entertainment industry.

Who Is Sebastian Arcelus?

Sebastian Arcelus is best known for his role as Jay Whitman on the CBS series Madam Secretary and as Lucas Goodwin on House of Cards. He has also appeared in several Broadway productions, including Rent, Jersey Boys, and Elf. His experience on stage and screen makes him a versatile performer who can bring both emotional depth and energy to the concert.

Arcelus met Block during their time together on the national tour of Wicked, where he played Fiyero. The couple has since built a successful career together, both professionally and personally.

What to Expect at the Concert

The Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert is more than just a musical performance — it’s a celebration of faith, family, and the joy of the season. The concert features a 360-voice choir, 150 instrumentalists, and 32 bell ringers, all volunteers who dedicate months of preparation to ensure a flawless performance.

A Tradition of Excellence

Since its debut in 2000, the concert has become a beloved tradition, featuring some of the most iconic performers in the entertainment industry. Past guest artists include Renee Fleming, Audra McDonald, and Kristin Chenoweth. This year’s concert continues that legacy with Block and Arcelus bringing their unique talents to the stage.

The concert includes a mix of classic Christmas carols, sacred music, and contemporary songs, creating a diverse and engaging program. The choir’s harmonies, combined with the orchestra and bells, create an unforgettable auditory experience.

Emotional Storytelling

One of the highlights of the concert is the storytelling segment, where a narrator shares a meaningful message that ties into the themes of the season. Last year, actor Dennis Haysbert narrated the story of Dr. Charles Mulli, a Kenyan philanthropist who overcame incredible odds to build a life of purpose and service. This year, the narrative will likely continue in a similar vein, emphasizing themes of hope, compassion, and community.

Haysbert’s storytelling has always been a powerful part of the concert, and his ability to connect with the audience makes each performance special. His emotional delivery and heartfelt messages leave a lasting impression on those in attendance.

How to Attend the Concert

Tickets to the Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert are free but required. They are distributed through a random selection process, with a limit of four tickets per household. The ticket request window opens on October 28 and closes on November 7. Those who receive tickets will be notified on November 19.

Standby Line

For those who don’t get tickets through the random selection process, there is a standby line available at the Tabernacle on Temple Square. The line forms 90 minutes before the 8 p.m. concert time. While there is no guarantee of getting a ticket, many people find the experience worthwhile.

Music & the Spoken Word

On Sunday, December 14, the Tabernacle Choir will host a 30-minute “Music & the Spoken Word” broadcast. This event does not require tickets and will feature both Block and Arcelus performing. It is a great opportunity for those who cannot attend the main concert to still enjoy the music and message of the season.

What Happened Last Year

Last year’s concert was a memorable one, featuring Ruthie Ann Miles and Dennis Haysbert as guest artists. Miles, a Tony Award-winning actress, brought her powerful voice to the stage, while Haysbert shared the inspiring story of Dr. Charles Mulli. The performance was so moving that it was later aired on PBS and BYUtv, allowing a wider audience to experience the magic of the concert.

Miles described the experience as “a welcoming, folding us into a blanket of love,” highlighting the sense of community and faith that defines the event. Haysbert’s narration of Mulli’s journey left the audience in tears, reinforcing the importance of compassion and service during the holiday season.

The Legacy of the Tabernacle Choir

The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square has a long and storied history, dating back to its founding in 1847. Over the years, it has become one of the most respected choirs in the world, known for its precision, dedication, and spiritual depth. The Christmas Concert is one of its most anticipated events, drawing audiences from around the globe.

A Message of Hope

President of the Tabernacle Choir, Michael O. Leavitt, emphasized the importance of the concert in spreading the message of the birth of Jesus Christ. “Every year, the Tabernacle Choir looks forward to sharing the message of the birth of our Savior and the joy of the Christmas season through music,” he said in a recent statement.

The choir’s mission is to bring people together through music, reminding them of the power of faith and the importance of community. This message is especially relevant during the holiday season, when many people seek comfort, hope, and connection.

Final Thoughts

The Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert is more than just a musical event — it’s a celebration of the values that unite us all. From the talented performers to the heartfelt storytelling, every aspect of the concert is designed to inspire and uplift. Whether you’re attending in person or watching from home, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

As the holiday season approaches, the concert serves as a reminder of the joy, love, and hope that define this special time of year. With its rich traditions and meaningful messages, the Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert continues to be a cherished part of American culture.