
A Madrigal Dinner is a trip back in time. Singers dress in 16th century, English costumes and herald in the Christmas season with a harmonious concert of traditional, a cappella carols. The ten members of the royal court join the King and Queen as they sit on stage in a semi-circle that opens to the audience.
The guests are seated at festively decorated tables ready to enjoy a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings: the Wassail, the "boar's head" and Figgie Pudding. The King's Jester serves as the "Master of Ceremonies" for the evening, as he delights and surprises the audience with toasts, jokes, and comic asides.
A troupe of the "King's Players" join the Court and present a traditional play that dates back to the time of Medieval and Renaissance European literature. These scenes are presented throughout the evening, between the courses of the meal and are followed by the sweet message of Christmas presented in an a cappella concert of traditional carols.
The audience comes away from the evening having enjoyed a delicious holiday feast, laughed and cried at the players, and marveled at the vocal talent of the ensemble.
The Christmas Madrigal Dinner Theater creates an evening at the theater, hosted by our Church body. This outreach event serves as a magnet to attract our community to Resurrection, where they may return to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ. The play aims at building the Body of Christ by encouraging Christian family values, healthy relationships, and spiritual growth.
Every year, the proceeds of the Madrigal Dinner go to benefit local charities. The beneficiaries for 2006 were Shepherd's Gate, a women's shelter in Brentwood; Rose Pierce Community Fund; and the Brentwood Lion's Club.
The Madrigal Dinner is usually held the first or second weekend in December, so please check back for ticket information and other updates!