Join the Western Illinois Museum for an evening of festive fun and unexpected musical delights during this year’s Dickens on the Square celebration! Families and visitors of all ages are invited to enjoy two reimagined musical performances and hands-on holiday activities.
Kick off the evening at 6:30 pm with the Western Whackers. These talented students from Western Illinois University (WIU) will use Boomwhackers—colorful plastic tubes of varying lengths—to perform creative renditions of holiday favorites. Led by Kevin Nichols, an associate professor in the WIU School of Music, this performance promises to surprise and delight with its playful sounds and inventive arrangements.
Next, Tuba Christmas takes center stage. Celebrate the 51st anniversary of this worldwide tradition featuring tubas and euphoniums performing heartwarming interpretations of holiday classics. Directed by Dr. James Land, WIU music professor, the ensemble includes local musicians of all ages, creating a rich, resonant sound perfect for the season.
More Family Fun!
Drop in from 6:00 to 8:00 pm and step back in time with Victorian Ladies Mrs. Bath and Mrs. Chu, who will demonstrate how to make sugar plums and lead hands-on activities to create Victorian-inspired tree decorations. Perfect for children and adults alike, this is a wonderful way to experience the charm of a Dickens-style Christmas.
Things to Know
Both performances will take place in the unheated portion of the Museum building. Be sure to dress warmly to stay cozy during the hour-long festivities.
This program is funded in part by grants from the Illinois Arts Council and Illinois Humanities.
***Courtesy of the Western Illinois Museum***
