Neumann University’s Cultural Arts Forum prepares for the holiday season as Bill Messenger brings Christmas Spirit to the Neumann stage on Thursday, December 10, at 1:30 p.m.

Messenger, accompanied by singer Julie Kurzava, tells stories perform some of the most famous Christmas songs along with the story of their creation. The holiday cheer comes to life with a deeper look into the background of some of the biggest songs with vocal and instrumental performances as well as some audience participation. Audiences will learn about the first Christmas carol, the origin of the Christmas tree, who the real Santa is and more.

Bill Messenger studied musical composition on scholarship at the Peabody Conservatory under Louis Cheslock and attended a master class with Nadia Boulanger, teacher of Aaron Copland and Leonard Bernstein. He earned two master degrees from John Hopkins University and has published several books. Julie Kurzava is a singer, actor, and writer, and has performed professionally across the Mid-Atlantic area.

Founded by Dr. Margaret Mary Kearny, a former broadcast personality and friend of Neumann University, the Cultural Arts Forum hosts six lectures each year, an annual high tea and a fashion show to foster cultural programming and enrich the educational experiences of Neumann University and the community at large. Proceeds from these events benefit the Dr. Margaret Mary Kearny Scholarship, which assists non-traditional students.

General admission is $8. The program is free for Cultural Arts Forum members and Neumann University students with ID. Performance will be held in the Fred P. Meagher Theatre in the Thomas A. Bruder, Jr. Life Center. For more information please call 610-558-5626.