Dorchester Christmas Celebration

The Strand Theatre was the venue for last night's Dorchester Christmas Celebration, featuring the Boston Classical Orchestra under the direction of conductor Steven Lipsitt. Above, Lipsitt led the orchestra in a rendition of Jingle Bells, accompanied by the string ensemble from the Pope John Paul II Catholic Academy. Members of the Boston City Singers helped to lead a memorable sing-along to conclude the evening's show, which was hosted by novelist and TV personality Kim McLarin.

The performance lasted about one hour and 15 minutes and drew a crowd of about 500 people to the theatre. Tickets were priced at $5-10 to attract families from the neighborhood. The Boston Classical Orchestra intends to make the Strand Theatre its second home, according to executive director Sean Roberts, a resident of nearby Jones Hill. Support for the concert has come from the Mayor’s Office of Arts, Tourism & Special Events and Boston Main Streets, along with corporate sponsors such as Mt. Washington Bank.