Yes, there is such a thing as professional carolers! The Sashay Quartet — made up of Jill Steckley, tenor; Deb Densmore, lead; Lori Phillips, baritone; and Jill Watson, bass (all members of the all-female, award-winning Grand Traverse Show Chorus) — has been performing since 2005. The setting for their holiday numbers couldn’t be better: The Old Art Building’s front lawn is currently decked out with thousands of lights and many Christmas trees adorned with “Peace” ornaments decorated by community members.

The Sashay Quartet wowed a crowd with songs on the lawn of the Old Art Building in Leland last year. By popular demand, they’re coming back to do it again at 5:30pm Friday, Dec. 10.

The caroling event is free, open to all, with easy social distancing on a snowy outdoor “stage” illuminated with thousands of lights.

An inclement weather back-up date is Sunday, December 12 at 4:30 pm. Leelanau Community Culture Center (LCCC) organizers note, in true Up North fashion: Snow not considered inclement weather…this refers to rain, which is in the forecast for Friday.

Meanwhile, the Old Art Building’s current art exhibit showcasing winter and snow scenes, created by its 2021 member artists, will be open until 7 pm Friday (or as long as the carolers perform). This is the first time LCCC has organized a winter-themed art show and sale. Over 50 local artists are sharing work inspired by the phenomenon of snow and the subtle colors of winter. The regular exhibit is open to the public through December 19 from 11 am – 3 pm daily, free of charge, with special extended hours this Friday.

Most proceeds go directly to the artists, while the rest will support the Leelanau Community Culture Center’s general operations fund. The nonprofit was founded in 1994 to preserve Leland’s historic Old Art Building, promote cultural enrichment, and to provide a gathering place for the community. 

For additional information, call the Old Art Building at 231-256-2131.

Pictured: Old Art Building courtesy Anna Taylor; Sashays courtesy Deb Densmore