the mommy avenger

Last week, I went to lunch with three friends. As we discussed our Christmas traditions, the conversation inevitably turned to A Christmas Carol. A heated debate soon followed over which movie adaptation was the best. One friend stood firm, passionately defending The Muppet Christmas Carol as the definitive version. No matter what counterarguments we presented, her position remained unwavering. Finally, when we asked, “Why?” her response was simple—childhood nostalgia. It’s fascinating how powerful nostalgia can be; some psychologists have even likened its effect on the brain to that of narcotics, creating an emotional connection that’s hard to shake.

That sense of nostalgia washed over me when I attended The Muppet Christmas Carol In Concert this evening. From the very first notes of the overture, I was transported back to my childhood, recalling time spent watching this beloved film with my family. The emotions came in waves, and I wasn’t alone. Throughout the performance, I noticed many in the audience wiping their eyes, while others couldn’t help but sing along. My friend may have been onto something—I began to understood how deep this film’s impact runs for so many. It’s clear that The Muppet Christmas Carol holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up with it, and the Philadelphia Orchestra made the experience all the more memorable with a stunning live performance.

Conductor Constantine Kitsopoulos, who has collaborated with the orchestra since 2011, displayed a masterful command of the music, guiding the musicians with precision and care. His conducting ensured that the orchestra was always in sync with the film’s emotional beats, maintaining impeccable timing throughout the production. The rhythm was consistent and steady, helping to underscore the film’s heartwarming moments and its more dramatic passages. 

The Philadelphia Orchestra brought an extra layer of magic to the experience, perfectly complementing the whimsical tone of The Muppets. During the majority of the pieces, the tunes bounced whimsically along with a lighthearted jollity reinforcing the tone of the film with sonorous amplification. The acoustics of Marian Anderson Hall were put to full use, with the percussion and low brass sections heightening the suspenseful moments and adding depth to the soundtrack. The live rendition of “Marley & Marley” was a particular highlight, providing a new, electrifying energy to the iconic song.

Events like these are a wonderful way to introduce younger generations to the fine arts. The Philadelphia Orchestra is investing in this mission with programs designed specifically for families. Through the Young Friends of the Philadelphia Orchestra membership, young people can attend performances at discounted rates and enjoy exclusive events throughout the season. Additionally, the Student Circle program offers college students $8 tickets for just a $30 annual membership fee. More information about these programs can be found at philorch.org.

For the price of admission, the Philadelphia Orchestra delivered a magical evening, turning a beloved childhood film into a powerful, immersive experience that reminded us all of the enduring power of nostalgia. Be sure to check out their schedule for upcoming events, including one more performance of The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert.

^{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}