A Holly Jolly Christmas
The Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay brought festive sparkle and joyful exuberance to their concert, “Holly, Jolly, and Gay!”, with a spirited performance of Greg Gilpin’s arrangement of “A Holly Jolly Christmas” at Allendale United Methodist Church in St. Petersburg, Florida, on December 5, 2025. Brimming with playful energy and classic holiday charm, the song perfectly matched the celebratory spirit of the evening.
From the opening phrases, the chorus established a bright, engaging sound that immediately connected with the audience. Gilpin’s arrangement highlights crisp rhythms, buoyant harmonies, and lighthearted musical gestures that keep the familiar tune feeling fresh and lively. The Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay embraced these elements with enthusiasm, delivering a performance that was both polished and delightfully fun.
Strong ensemble unity was evident throughout the piece. Clear diction ensured that the cheerful lyrics rang out, while well-balanced harmonies created a full, vibrant choral texture. Subtle dynamic contrasts added shape and momentum, allowing quieter moments to sparkle with anticipation before blossoming into full, joyful refrains. The chorus’s expressive delivery conveyed genuine warmth, inviting listeners to share in the holiday cheer.
The acoustics of Allendale United Methodist Church enhanced the brightness of the performance, allowing the sound to resonate cleanly throughout the sanctuary. Audience members responded with smiles, laughter, and visible enjoyment, reflecting the infectious nature of the song. Within a program that explored many facets of the season, “A Holly Jolly Christmas” stood out as a moment of pure, uncomplicated joy.
As part of “Holly, Jolly, and Gay!”, this performance served as a celebratory highlight, reinforcing the concert’s theme of inclusivity, warmth, and shared happiness. The Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay honored the song’s nostalgic appeal while infusing it with their own vibrant personality. By the final chord, the message was clear: the holiday season had arrived in full, joyful color.