IDAHO FALLS – Renowned concert violinist Jenny Oaks Baker and her family four are returning to eastern Idaho next week to kick off the Christmas season.
They’re bringing along Irish soprano Alex Sharpe and bestselling author Jason Wright, known for his book, “Christmas Jars,” for “Joy to the World: A Sacred Celebration.” The concert is happening Nov. 24.
This is the show’s fourth year at the Frontier Center for the Performing Arts, formerly known as the Idaho Falls Civic Center for the Performing Arts.
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Baker tells EastIdahoNews.com a few changes are in store for the 2023 performance.
“It’s a slightly different show, we’ve improved it, tightened it up and made it even more special,” Baker says. “I hired a creative director who works with the Tabernacle Choir on Temple Square to make it an even more beautiful, impactful show.”
“Joy to the World” is a Christmas story told from the perspective of a shepherd narrator, played by Wright. Musical numbers help tell the story in between his commentary. Sharpe is the featured soloist, along with Irish dancers and local choirs.
Traditionally, the show has culminated with a final, rousing number utilizing the entire crew’s talents.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing how it all comes together,” says Baker. “Idaho Falls is our first stop on the tour. I’m really excited to come back. It’s always a great crowd.”
The number of performances for this year’s tour are nearly double what they were last year. The Salt Lake City woman is scheduled to perform in 20 venues across the country over the next month. Increasing the number of performances from last year is something she felt compelled to do.
“Utah has a lot of Christmas shows, but other places don’t have quite as many and I really felt strongly that I wanted to take our show to people throughout the country and even into Canada,” she says. “I don’t know why, but it’s been so much more than double the amount of work … but it’s totally going to be worth it.”
Tickets are limited for a VIP reception with Baker and family before the show. She has a special gift for those who purchase that.
She’s offering a 10% discount for those who use the code “JOY10” at checkout. The show starts at 7 p.m. on Nov. 24. To buy tickets, click here.
In the video above, Baker discusses the show, the time she worked with Jon Heder, Patrick Stewart and Cheryl Hines in a movie and her recent collaboration with Marie Osmond.
WATCH OUR INTERVIEW WITH BAKER IN THE VIDEO ABOVE.