“The Christmas Revels” has long been one of Boston’s most beloved holiday traditions. Historically, the production highlights a different culture and heritage each season. This year marks the show’s 52nd production.  In an effort to be more inclusive, the event will have a new name – “Midwinter Revels: A Celebration of the Solstice” – as it showcases Irish, Mexican, and Jewish cultures.  

In preparation, the producers are holding auditions for a diverse and talented chorus of volunteer adults and children next week, on June 13, 14 and 18, as noted below. 

While Revels features a number of professional performers in its productions, its volunteer choruses of adults and children are at its core. There is no "standing" Revels production chorus. Each year, the producers cast anew and encourage adults and children of diverse backgrounds to try out. BIPOC singers are highly encouraged to audition. 

Directed by Patrick Swanson with music direction by Elijah Botkin, “Midwinter Revels” will present a 15-performance run, from Dec. 16 to Dec. 29, at Harvard University’s Sanders Theatre in Cambridge. 

Auditions are as follows:

•  Mon., June 13, and Tues., June 14, at Belmont-Watertown UMC, 80 Mt. Auburn Street in Watertown from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. for children ages 7-12; from 7 p.m. ro 10 p.m. for adults

• Sat., June 18, at Tony Williams Dance Center, 284 Amory Street, Jamaica Plain from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m for children ages 7-12; from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for adults.

Note: Chorus auditions will be scheduled by appointment only.  Visit revels.org/auditions to sign up. 

As Artistic Director Paddy Swanson notes of “Revels” long history in a recent blog: “Carols and rounds are sung with emphasis on the pleasure of community singing rather than as articles of faith, and the deep mysteries of life, death, and regeneration expressed in music, ritual, and drama are acknowledged as involving all of humanity irrespective of race, creed or religion. 

“At this half-century mark of Revels history, we are engaged, along with every other arts organization, in a period of introspection, learning, and change as we address issues of systemic racism, inequality, and unintended bias within our organizations. Although in the past we have invited and included performers and material of all faith backgrounds under the banner of The Christmas Revels, we are taking the opportunity this year to emphasize the inclusive nature of this unique Revels hybrid. We hope that you will join with us in joyfully widening our circle of friends and community.”

For more information on all things “Revels,” visit revels.org