OPAS kicks off holidays with fan favorites, new artists

Published 11:01 am Wednesday, November 9, 2022

There will be no better way for music lovers to celebrate this holiday season than with the Oconee Performing Arts Society (OPAS) and their joyful, moving, and fun holiday programs. 

OPAS, the premier arts organization in the Lake Oconee area, held their annual “fun”raiser, Soiree en Blanc & Noir, held at a secret location on Nov. 4. Additionally, there will be two holiday events: the Thanksgiving Jam Session with acclaimed soul singer Morgan James on Nov. 26 and the annual holiday celebration Fa-La-La on Dec. 16. 

Morgan James, a singer, songwriter and actress, has been widely lauded for her stunning voice. As the New York Times puts it, “Ms. James is a phenomenal talent whose feel for classic soul music is bone deep. This woman is on fire.” And the Wall Street Journal said, “The most promising young vocalist to come along so far this century. I first heard Morgan and went home asking myself, ‘Who is that?’ Now I know. So will you.” James will kick off the holiday season alongside her four-piece band, delighting the audience with her moving song collection and soaring voice. 

The OPAS annual holiday spectacular, Fa-La-La, will feature a 32-piece orchestra, Broadway star Capathia Jenkins, and OPAS favorite Madison Claire Parks. Charming conductor Lawrence Loh is heading up the Fa-La-La program, returning by popular demand after audiences fell in love with “Larry” earlier this year at the OPAS Memorial Day Beatles Concert. 

The 15th season of the organization got off to a thrilling start with the recent Broadway Sings for OPAS concert. Artistic Director Doug LaBrecque credits the donors for the quality of performances the organization presents, keeping the arts alive and thriving in the area. “The loyal support from our community never ceases to amaze me,” said LaBrecque. “It’s that support that enables us to bring such world-class talent to Lake Country.”

Tickets are available now for these three events and advance ticket sales (can you say stocking stuffer?) for Michael Feinstein, who shares his immense talent with OPAS on Feb. 4.