Guests enjoyed music, dancing and holiday spirit at Monroeville’s 53rd Tree Lighting.

The Monroeville Historical Society hosted the two-hour event at Old Stone Church on Nov. 27.

Attendees gathered in the pews of the historical building to watch performances from the Opus 2 Orchestra and Larry Cervi’s East End Kids.

Opus 2 was conducted by Evan Reichenfeld, great-grandson of the orchestra’s founder, Dr. Eugene Reichenfeld. Evan led his players through nine holiday songs and received a standing ovation after their final piece, “Holiday Hoedown.”

Between group performances, Monroeville’s mayor Nick Gresock spoke to the audience about the upcoming holiday season.

“There is a constant theme of good versus bad, light versus dark,” said Gresock. “Let’s look at these lights and be reminded to do good within our community this holiday season.”

Bruce Walker, president of the Monroeville Historical Society, spoke on the history of Old Stone Church and its bell tower. Originally dedicated in 1976, the bell fell from its mooring a few years ago. The tree lighting doubled as a celebration of its restoration.

According to the event’s brochure, the society was able to celebrate the restoration, “thanks to the many gifts from, not only from current residents, but also from those who moved away long ago but left their hearts in Monroeville.”

After guest speakers finished their presentations, Cervi took the stage to introduce his East End Kids. The teen performance group presented 23 fully choreographed holiday numbers. Their performance was complete with outfit changes matching each song they sang.

At the end of the performance, Santa Claus made an appearance. He led guests outside and called for tree lights to illuminate.

As the tree lit up, Old Stone Church’s bell rang to signify the beginning of the holiday season. Everyone gathered on the front lawn to watch the lights and take photos with Santa.

For more information about the Monroeville Historical Society, visit www.monroevillehistorical.org.

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