Lights dim on annual Christmas production after 25 years

SUMMERVILLE, SC (WCSC) - After 25 years, the lights will dim on the "Lowcountry Singing Christmas Tree," a tradition that has become well-known across the tri-county.

"Our Christmas gift to the community."

"It touches your heart in such an amazing way. There's just nothing like standing up there."

Marcia Brantley, Jan Martin and Susan Worthy have a combined 75 years with the production, each of them at opening night on the first night in 1990.

"There comes a time when everything has to end, and this is that time," says Brantley, the ensemble's pianist.

"It's exciting to see what God is going to do next for our church, this community and for each life personally," says assistant director Martin.

"I think that probably a lot of us on the leadership team have kind of known that there would come a day, but it is bitter sweet," says Worthy, who has been singing in the production for 25 years.

Eighty-seven performers, ranging in age from five to 80, are part of this year's show. Pastor Eddie Sayetta says the decision was difficult, but he says the church is looking forward to growing and expanding the tradition in a new way.

"This has been a wonderful ministry for us over the 25 years that we've done it, but I think there's always time to evaluate and say what could be the next step? What could we do a little bit better or what could we do even differently to help reach the community with that message of hope and joy?"

There are two performances on Saturday, two on Sunday and one on Monday. Tickets are available on the church's website.