Desert View plus SaddleBrooke Singers bring XMAS Delights

SBINSIDER ENTERTAINMENT REPORTER GLORIA LINARES | December, 13th 2024

SaddleBrooke is very fortunate that Robson Development created the Desert View Theater as part of the HOA2 complex. Not only is the location easy for residents to reach without traversing public streets, but the variety and high quality of the entertainment is outstanding. For the shows presented, SaddleBrooke owes a debt of gratitude to the director, Darbie Baker who introduces each show and adds her own bit of showmanship and whimsy to the programs.

SaddleBrooke Singers Bring the Spirit

Christmas shows can be predictable and comfortable as strictly traditional and many folks enjoy the familiarity. The show that was presented on December 8th was a wonderfully arranged and interpreted rendition of the classic Christmas carols, by Director Tanya Elias.

Beginning with six songs written specifically for Hollywood productions, such as White Christmas and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas then onto three songs from Cartoon Classics, think Santa Claus Is Comin to Town then three tunes that were used in films, such as Joy to the World and finally four songs that were featured in animated productions; A Charlie Brown Christmas, Where Are You Christmas?, Grinch Medley, and A holiday of Road Carols.

Director Elias enchanted the audience with her special take on all these numbers. Adding to the aural pleasure, were the soloists! Too many to list all, but kudos to Monica Gray, Bruce Kistler and Gail Nelli, all voices familiar to SaddleBrooke audiences from past shows, added their stylings.

Also, the keyboard dexterity by pianist Sly Slipetsky must be noted. Sly told SBINSIDER that he is most adept with jazz but elides with all forms of music. He is a regular jazz performer at the El Conquistador hotel just down Oracle Road on most weekend nights.