Hays Symphony
The Hays Symphony is set to perform its annual holiday concert, "Poinsettia Pops," at 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 5 at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center on the Fort Hays State University campus, 600 Park St.
The "Poinsettia Pops" concert serves as the symphony's traditional seasonal performance, bringing together musicians and community members to celebrate the holidays through music.
This year’s program will feature an array of beloved orchestral holiday arrangements, including the driving rhythm of "Carol of the Bells," the tranquil beauty of "Greensleeves," and the dynamic, festive sounds of Leroy Anderson's "Sleigh Ride."
Ken Windholz will guide the audience through the evening’s program as the master of ceremonies.
Music director Benjamin Cline emphasized the concert’s role as an annual fixture in the community calendar.
“‘Poinsettia Pops’ is not just a concert; it’s our cherished annual tradition, a time when the orchestra comes together to offer a vibrant, musical celebration that truly marks the start of the holiday season for our community,” Cline said. “We are proud that this concert, like all our performances, remains free to the public. It is central to our mission to ensure that the joy and richness of live symphony music are available to everyone in Ellis County and beyond.”
Along with the holiday celebration, this year the Symphony will use the event to support local families in need during the holiday season, partnering with the local chapter of Toys For Tots.
Attendees are strongly encouraged to participate in the toy drive by contributing new, unwrapped toys or other appropriate gifts, which may be dropped off in the lobby of the performing arts center before the concert begins.
The Symphony and Toys For Tots welcome a variety of donations suitable for children of different ages, including books, board or card games, arts and crafts kits, sports equipment, and personal care items such as hair brushes or accessories.
Hays Symphony Guild president Joan Crull highlighted the connection between the arts and community service.
“The Hays Symphony Guild looks forward to 'Poinsettia Pops' every year. It’s a signature event that brings our community together for beautiful music and holiday fellowship, and we encourage everyone to join us for this special tradition,” Crull said. “Through the generosity of our supporters, we can maintain the tradition of free concerts. We are thrilled to combine this annual holiday event with the Toys For Tots drive, allowing the community to experience seasonal music while supporting a great cause.”
The evening will conclude with a post-concert reception, which has been made possible through a generous donation from Great Plains Dermatology.
Midwest Energy has stepped forward as the event's concert sponsor, demonstrating their strong commitment to supporting local arts and entertainment.
Further, the ability of the Hays Symphony to provide free and accessible concert experiences throughout the year is supported by its season sponsors, including the Riley Family Foundation, the Robert E. Browning Foundation, and an anonymous Ellis County family.
Free tickets are available online at hayssymphony.org.