The holidays are almost here and that means lots of Christmas shows. If you are feeling more like the Grinch rather than Cindy Lou Who; then I highly encourage you to head to the Grand Strand for the Carolina Opry's fabulous Christmas Show.

In 1986 Calvin Gilmore opened the very first live theater in Myrtle Beach. Today, with its 40th anniversary of providing entertainment to tourists and locals alike, the Carolina Opry showcases amazing talent through its annual performances and guest artists. One of their most amazing shows, known as The Christmas Show of the South, features more than 35 talented singers, actors, dancers, and entertainment artists across the country!


I would highly recommend taking a holiday trip to Myrtle Beach in order to see this spectacular performance. In this 2–2.5 hr show, your family will be in awe at the soulful voices uplifting well-known secular and Christian Christmas Carols.


The theater boosts holiday decor that highlights the themes of the show, too. The lobby boosts a 30 ft Christmas tree full of sparkling lights waiting for you to take photos in front of. A photographer is available for paid photos as well.


Inside the theater, Two 25 ft toy soldiers flank the stage to help set a holiday scene. Using an electronic backdrop, each piece of the set-list not only features live entertainers and props, but lights and generated background to provide extra affects. If you are lucky, you might even get snowed on too!

 

Photo provided by the Carolina Opry.

The set list rotated between classic hymns about the birth of Christ and rocking Christmas Eve tunes that will make you want to dance. 

From the deep voices of Mr. Melvin Braxton and Mr. Delvin Choice to the joyful taps of All THAT!; the all male clogging crew, to the appearance of Dreamer the horse, pulling along a sleigh; there is something for everyone in this show.

• Delvin Choice – best known from NBC’s The Voice, where he became a fan favorite with his smooth, versatile style; he brings charisma and vocal firepower to the stage.

• Mia Curtis – talented young daughter of Mike Curtis, founding member of All That! Clogging Group, they will also be joined my younger sister Madilyn for the first time this season

Want to experience the real reason for the season? Classic hymns like Mary Did You Know, Mary Was the First One to Carry the Gospel, and Silent Night will bring you to tears.

The show isn't without comedic relief, as the antics of Ricky Mokel will have you rolling in your seat (or perhaps moaning internally). Run GMC also performs a very special version of Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer that will have you singing along too!



The orchestra, brass ensemble, and special musicians all add incredibly background music to the vocals of this performance. I have always loved Carol of the Bells, and the various renditions during this show had me speechless!



Have you ever seen a dulcimer player perform Carol of the Bells in a Christmas Show? I have always loved the dulcimer sounds and was very impressed at this part of the show! Then later on, a different Carol of the Bells version happened with other instruments.



While I wasn't able to see them, this year the show also boasts the skills of two very talented girls, who are the daughters of Mike Curtis, one of the All THAT! cloggers. I encourage you to look out for them when you go!

I absolutely LOVE how this show captures the talents of both local and national entertainers, who, in their own lives, have various history with entertainment and performances. It makes the Christmas Show extra special to know that each person on stage loves what they do, year round!



This holiday season, take a trip to Myrtle Beach for an experience all will love! I saw smaller children excited about the various props and elements of the show, while adults marveled at the voices of the many talented singers.