AU To Host Annual Candles and Carols Dec. 1

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Anderson, Ind. — Anderson University’s famed Candles and Carols performance is ready for its 59th year as the 2023 show will be held December 1 at 7:30 p.m. in Reardon Auditorium.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been a part of many phenomenal productions and programs, but there have been very few times that I’ve been this excited about a performance,” said Dr. Caroline Ahn, artistic director in the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance. “It has been an honor and privilege to help program the performance for the 59th Candles and Carols.” 

The event began in 1965 when Dr. Dale Bengtson, chair of the Anderson College (University) music department, had an idea. What if a Christmas gathering was created featuring all the ensembles of the music department? How special would it be if the audience was invited to sing along with traditional Christmas carols? These ideas were posed to the dean of the faculty at that time, Robert Nicholson, and soon became the cornerstone of Candles and Carols.

“This is truly the SMTD’s crowning event, and simply no other recital, production, or show involves so many of our talented students,” said Ahn.

Admission is free and seating is open to Candles and Carols. Learn more about this special tradition online.

Anderson University is on a mission to educate students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 60 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 20 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult and graduate programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized among top colleges for its business, computer science, cybersecurity, dance, engineering, nursing, and teacher education programs. Anderson University was established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God.