Community Corner

Music Warms Crowd at Tree Lighting

First Ceremony Held in New Plaza

A series of musical groups drew an enthusiastic response from residents during Saturday's downtown Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

It was the first year the annual Celebration of Lights and Song Around the World was held in the newly renovated Parade Plaza. Despite a chilly night, people filled the amphitheater steps to take in five bands and performing artists. They kept warm with cups of cocoa and coffee or by joining the impromptu dancing in front of the performance area.

"Can I say that as a lifetime New London resident, this is the coolest thing I've ever done," Casey O'Neill, a member of Steve Elci and Friends, told the crowd.

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That band took part in the first part of the evening, leading a parade of children and adults in Christmas carols as they proceeded down Bank Street. Most chose to wear antlers for the "Reindeer and Elf Procession" from the Fire Department's headquarters to the plaza.

The group's songs contained children's themes but variety of music styles that appealed to adults as well, leading to Elci's conclusion that the band is a children's group "that rocks New London style." Michele O'Neill said it is the first time the group has performed in the event, and that she was glad to see a crowd come out despite the cold.

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"I was shocked," she said. "I was surprised to see so many people here, and so many ages."

Other performers included Neil Diamond and Elvis Presley impersonators, part of the Foxwoods Resort and Casino's Legends in Concert show. The show was rounded out by the Juventud Magica Dancers, African drum performers Djrum Worx, and D! Williams and the Gospel Family.

Kendrick Baker, one half of Djrum Worx, said the duo hails from New Haven but came to New London after hearing about the event through a friend who owns a restaurant here. During their performance, one boy came out to dance and was joined by a crowd of children after Baker encouraged them to participate. He then asked the adults to do the same on the next piece.

"Show your children that you still have that youthful spirit. That's what Christmas is all about," said Baker, adding, "It's OK to look silly."

Charlotte Hennegan, owner of the Thames Rivery Beanery and Greenery, said she was happy to see that many people had come out to support the event. The shop was hosting ballerinas from the Eastern Connecticut Ballet, which will put on a performance of The Nutcracker at the Garde Arts Center on Dec. 11 and 12. The ballerinas performed in one of the shop's windows, drawing a group of onlookers.

"The beauty of it is when it gets dark," said Hennegan, saying the light from inside helps add to the festive atmosphere.

Mayor Rob Pero led the audience in a round of "Dashing Through the Snow" before starting the countdown to the tree lighting. People migrated across the plaza to the tree as its lights blinked on, Santa Claus waving at its base.


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