Ann Hutton

Just days before the longest stretch of darkness we’ll encounter this season, a holiday show put on by the Vanaver Caravan and Caravan Kids is scheduled to brighten things up considerably. The Festivals of Light concert takes place at the Studley Theatre in the Old Main building on the SUNY-New Paltz campus at 7 p.m. on Saturday, December 16.

A tribute to traditional customs of people the world throughout who address midwinter with their own culturally unique approaches, this colorful holiday show presents a variety of dance and musical selections. Among them are Christmas carols, Chinese ribbon dancing, Diwali and Kwanzaa performances from India and Africa, the “Chanukah Suite,” a taste of Sweden through Sankta Lucia, along with Solstice songs and dances from virtually anywhere in the world. Co-director Livia Vanaver is especially pleased to announce that her founding partner and husband Bill Vanaver will make his first local appearance since a two-month-long hospitalization took him off the stage last year.

The company, which travels throughout the United States and Europe, is now in its 32nd season. The Vanavers remain committed to promoting peace through down-home, high-spirited, non-denominational concert performances. They also offer workshops and school residencies to foster appreciation of the world’s rich dance and musical traditions. Whenever possible, local community performers are featured in the company’s productions.

This year’s show is headlined by the haunting harmonies of Barely Lace, and the classy – and it must be said – champion clogger Amy Fenton-Shine. It promises to be a festive celebration, perhaps even bordering on rowdy, and one that will delight the entire family. Tickets are $6 for children age 12 and under and $12 for adults, and are available at the door. Group rates are available. For further information call (845) 256-9300.