Holiday Conversations: Christmas Movies, Charities in a Pandemic, ‘The Nutcracker’ Goes Virtual
From December 17: There are lots and lots of Christmas movies, new and old, this holiday season. This year alone, the Hallmark network has 23 new Christmas movies airing, and Netflix, Hulu and other streaming services have a full slate for you to enjoy your fill. To help sift through the choices and help find a new favorite or classic Christmas film are resident film critic for Vocalo 91.1 FM in Chicago Reggie Ponder and Film Critic for Consequence of Sound Clint Worthington.
Guests:
Reggie Ponder, member of the African American Film Critics Association
Clint Worthington, Editor in Chief of The Spool
From December 9: Even in a pandemic the bells are ringing, but the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign is facing new challenges this holiday season. The organization says it’s bracing for a 50 percent drop in kettle donations. Meanwhile, the pandemic has left millions of Americans struggling, and charities continue trying to help those in their communities who are most in need. The 21st was joined by the Executive Directors of both Champaign County Salvation Army and CU at Home to talk about how they're altering their service.
Guests:
Randall Summit, Executive Director of Champaign County Salvation Army
Rob Dalhaus III, Executive Director of CU at Home
From December 9: As the pandemic rolls on into the holiday season, performing arts organizations like the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra and The Springfield Ballet Company are having to find creative ways to bring performances to audiences in new ways.
Guests:
Stilian Kirov, Music Director for the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra
Julie Ratz, Artistic Director of The Springfield Ballet Company
The Springfield Ballet Company’s documentary, Through Clara’s Eyes, has broadcasts scheduled now through Jan. 3. $30.
The Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s JOY! A Reimagined Holiday Concert, featuring the Ellington-Strayhorn Nutcracker Suite, will be available for streaming beginning Saturday, Dec. 12 through the end of the month. $15.