Meet the Artists Performing at the 66th Annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration
The Emmy® Award-winning "L.A. County Holiday Celebration" returns for its 66th annual show. Angelenos can experience the magic of L.A.’s holiday season as more than 20 local artists such as Angeles Chorale, Le Ballet Dembaya, and Mariachi Divas De Cindy Shea light up the stage in this family-friendly celebration featuring the rich spirit and diversity of L.A. through live music and dance.
Below, get to know the music ensembles, choirs and dance companies slated for this year's performance.
The 66th annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration can be enjoyed live, for free, at The Music Center on Dec. 24, 2025 or watch it on air or stream it on PBS SoCal.
Andre Cruz & Chris Lujan
Backed by The Black Diamond Rhythm Band, Andre Cruz & Chris Lujan are crooning, sweet SoCal souldies (soulful oldies) who bring their unique sound of fuzz-heavy, groove-infused California Soul to the stage. The group consists of vocalist Andre Cruz, an energetic, joyful performer who has shared stages with artists including Lee Fields, Thee Sacred Soul and Kelly Finnigan; and producer and bandleader Chris Lujan, an award-winning fixture in the soul/funk scene. Performing with them for this year’s "L.A. County Holiday Celebration" is The Black Diamond Rhythm Band, which features members of some of California's best soul & funk bands.
Angeles Chorale
Founded in 1975, the Angeles Chorale is a vibrant Los Angeles-based community chorus of 65 auditioned singers, blending volunteer and professional-level voices. For 50 years, the Chorale has brought inspiring and uplifting choral music experiences to audiences across the greater Los Angeles area. Led by Artistic Director Lesley Leighton and Associate Conductor Angela Lin, the Angeles Chorale is celebrated for its dynamic performances, diverse repertoire and commitment to artistic excellence. With community at the heart of everything it does, the Chorale continues to build a legacy of accessibility, inclusivity and musical mastery that reflects the spirit and diversity of Los Angeles itself. Over the past five decades, the Angeles Chorale has appeared on some of the most iconic stages and collaborated on memorable productions. Highlights include Barbra Streisand’s "Back to Brooklyn" concert at the Hollywood Bowl (2012), music from "Final Fantasy" at the Microsoft Theater (2015) and the Joe Hisaishi Symphonic Concert: "Music from the Studio Ghibli Films of Hayao Miyazaki" (2018). In 2022, the Chorale performed "Home Alone in Concert" at The Music Center’s Walt Disney Concert Hall and made its streaming debut in episodes of "Paris & Nicole: The Encore! "in 2024.
Ballet Folklórico de Esperanza
Ballet Folklórico de Esperanza, led by Ignacio Delgado-Hernandez, is a vibrant and culturally rich dance ensemble from Esperanza College Prep in East Los Angeles. Rooted in the belief that artistic expression is a powerful vehicle for cultural preservation and empowerment, the ensemble’s program celebrates Mexican folk dance traditions while fostering pride, inclusivity and community connection. Inspired by the enduring legacy of the 1968 East Los Angeles Walkouts, the group serves as a living bridge between generations and cultures. Through rigorous training and performance, students master the intricate footwork, graceful movements and vibrant costumes of Ballet Folklórico while embarking on a transformative journey of self-discovery, reconnecting with their ancestral roots and reclaiming their cultural identity with confidence and pride. Under the leadership of Delgado-Hernandez, whose extensive background includes work with the prestigious Grandeza Mexicana Folk Ballet Company, the ensemble continues to inspire audiences across Los Angeles, honoring the rich traditions of Mexico and amplifying the voices and stories of East L.A.’s youth, a testament to resilience, heritage and the enduring spirit of community.
Bob Baker Marionette Theater
The Bob Baker Marionette Theater, founded in 1963, is an iconic Los Angeles institution and the longest continuously operating puppet theater in the United States. Established by legendary puppeteer Bob Baker, the theater has enchanted audiences for over six decades with its whimsical storytelling, handcrafted marionettes and open-stage performances that reveal the artistry behind every movement. Home to more than 3,000 original marionettes, the theater’s beloved productions—from classic tales like "The Nutcracker" to culturally rich musicals such as "¡Fiesta!" and "Hooray, L.A.!"—blend vintage charm with fresh creativity that reflect the world we live in today. Now housed in a reimagined historic venue in Highland Park, CA, the theater continues to honor Baker’s legacy under the leadership of a dedicated team of artists who preserve and expand the art of puppetry for new generations. In 2024, the Bob Baker Marionette Theater was honored to perform in the "L.A. County Holiday Celebration", continuing its mission to bring joy, wonder and imagination to audiences of all ages while remaining a beloved cornerstone of Los Angeles’ cultural landscape.
Bonita High School Chamber Singers
Nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Bonita High School is home to one of Southern California’s most celebrated choral music programs. With over 200 singers across five ensembles, the program is known for its commitment to musical excellence, artistry and community. Led by Director Ryan Yoder, Bonita’s choirs provide students with rigorous training and enriching performance experiences. The premier ensemble, Chamber Singers, has earned national acclaim through performances at iconic venues including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Chicago Symphony Hall and Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco. The group also represented California at the Pacific Basin Music Festival in Honolulu and performed at notable landmarks such as the Jefferson Memorial, Walt Disney World’s Epcot Center and Disneyland Resort’s Candlelight Processional. Most recently, the chamber singers presented a featured performance at the California All-State Music Education Conference. Bonita High School choirs are regularly recognized with top honors at Southern California Vocal Association festivals and other adjudicated events, known for their expressive singing and disciplined technique. The program fosters both musical growth and personal development, empowering students through every performance. Bonita High School’s Choral Music Program continues to inspire audiences and enrich its legacy, bringing passionate, high-quality choral music to the stage.
Carousel Dance Company
Carousel Dance Company is a multicultural children’s performance dance company based in West Hills, California. Under the direction of Karen and Natalie Willes, the company has performed and competed on stages worldwide, earning acclaim for its dynamic artistry and diverse repertoire. Notable credits include performances in The Hollywood Christmas Parade, World of Dance Live and numerous national competitions with Grand Prize honors at Tremaine, Hollywood Connection and Hollywood Vibe. The company has been recognized for its exceptional choreography, receiving awards at The Music Center’s Spotlight program and from the Professional Dancers Society, highlighting its commitment to excellence, creativity and the development of young dancers.
CFLC ALL-STAR BRASS and the CFLC ZYDECO QUARTET BAND
The Charles Favors Louisiana Cultural Foundation of California (CFLC), founded by Charles Favors, is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to sharing the rich culture of Louisiana’s music, food, dance and art throughout Southern California. Since 2019, CFLC has brought Louisiana traditions to audiences across the region through its musical ensembles including the CFLC All-Star Brass Band and the CFLC Zydeco Quartet.
Dinjes Music Ensemble
Founded in 2002, the Dinjes Music Ensemble is a vibrant performance group that continues to bring inclusive music to the Los Angeles community. Comprised of students from the Dinjes Music Program, an initiative providing free music therapy and education to individuals with developmental disabilities alongside internationally acclaimed musicians, the ensemble creates performances that are moving, joyful and deeply human. The Dinjes Music Program supports people of all ages with developmental disabilities, using music as a tool for self-expression, personal growth and social connection. On stage, the ensemble reflects this mission by blending professional artistry with the unique voices of its student performers. Each concert is family-friendly and designed to uplift audiences while highlighting the talents and contributions of individuals often underrepresented in the arts. With themes of hope, unity and resilience, the Dinjes Music Ensemble inspires audiences and fosters a deeper appreciation for the richness of human experience, creating community through the transformative power of music.
Harmonic Bronze
Harmonic Bronze Handbell Ensemble (Handbells) is an after-school music program open to students from sixth grade through adulthood. Currently there are four groups that share the name Harmonic Bronze: a beginning group, an intermediate group, an advanced group and an adult group. Handbells is a special place where everyone feels welcomed, needed and valued, emphasizing group unity and interdependence as critical components of success. The group motto of "humble confidence" serves as a reminder that confidence must always be framed with humility and dependence on one another.
Kim Eung Hwa & Korean Dance Company
Founded in 1980, the Kim Eung Hwa & Korean Dance Company is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional performing arts of Korea. Under the artistic direction of Kim Eung Hwa, a renowned dancer, choreographer and cultural ambassador, the company offers comprehensive training in classical Korean court and folk dances, ritual performances and traditional music rooted in centuries of Korean history that include forms dating back to the Three Kingdoms era (1st–6th century AD). Located in the heart of Koreatown, the company welcomes students of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels, fostering cross-cultural understanding through the beauty and discipline of Korean dance. Each performance reflects Korea’s rich heritage, featuring intricate costumes, graceful movement and compelling storytelling. The company has appeared at major events across Southern California, including the Kingdom Day Parade, LA Korean Festival, KCON and Korean Heritage Night at Dodger Stadium, inspiring new generations of performers while sharing the elegance, depth and cultural significance of Korea’s artistic legacy.
LA Daf Ensemble
Under the direction of Arezoo Koochakan, the LA Daf Ensemble is a Los Angeles-based performance group formed to celebrate and showcase the artistry of female daf players. The ensemble was founded in 2015 and began with a focus on rhythmic music. It has since evolved to incorporate a dynamic fusion of music and dance. Over the years, the group has delivered more than 300 performances across Southern California and beyond, including Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Scottsdale, San Francisco, Orange County, Riverside and San Diego. The ensemble has collaborated with prominent institutions such as the Farhang Foundation, the Getty Villa Museum and the Iranian American Women Foundation and has performed at prestigious venues including UCLA Royce Hall and Dickson Court, the Dolby Theater, Gindi Auditorium and the Skirball Cultural Center. Through its performances, the LA Daf Ensemble highlights the rich traditions of the daf while creating an engaging, immersive experience that blends cultural heritage with contemporary artistry.
Le Ballet Dembaya
Founded in 2015, Le Ballet Dembaya is Los Angeles’ first youth-led West African drum and dance ensemble, comprised of second-generation practitioners, cultural ambassadors and tradition bearers. The members were raised together in the Los Angeles drum and dance community, where they studied and performed with local ensembles while cultivating a deep connection to West African rhythms and movement. Following in the footsteps of their parents, who were among the first in Los Angeles to emphasize the diasporic connection between Black Americans and their African ancestry through drum and dance, the group is dedicated to sharing, preserving and raising awareness of West African culture. Through its performances and educational programs, Le Ballet Dembaya seeks to unify communities, heal those in need, honor its elders and ancestors and inspire new generations to embrace and celebrate the richness, discipline and vitality of West African artistic traditions.
Los Negrete Fam
Los Negrete Fam is a family of talented musicians whose performances captivate audiences with energy, skill and heart. Led by Heloisa Negrete on drums, the ensemble also features JJ on dance, Cindy on vocals and bass drum and Dad on trombone. Together, the group creates a unique sound that blends traditional Mexican Banda music with contemporary pop influences. Los Negrete Fam’s passion for music is evident in every performance, and its vibrant energy has helped the group build a large following on social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, where its videos showcase both musical talent and infectious charisma. Whether performing classic Mexican ballads or upbeat dance tunes, Los Negrete Fam celebrates its heritage while highlighting the power of family and community, delivering memorable performances that resonate with audiences of all ages.
Mariachi Divas De Cindy Shea
With a career spanning over 26 years, the all-female Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea is a critically acclaimed ensemble specializing in professional mariachi music for live concerts, commercials, television and film recordings. A multiple GRAMMY® Award winner with eight GRAMMY nominations and three Latin GRAMMY nominations, the group continues to expand the reach of mariachi music, delighting audiences around the world. Founded in 1999 by musical director and trumpet player Cindy Shea, Mariachi Divas is celebrated for its innovative repertoire, blending mariachi classics with jazz, pop and other musical styles. Known for its sophisticated, smooth and elegant sound, the ensemble has released 21 professional full-length albums, all produced and directed by Shea through ADA Latin/Warner Music, cementing its legacy as pioneers and ambassadors of contemporary mariachi.
Mostly Kosher
Mostly Kosher is a Los Angeles-based klezmer-rock ensemble that reimagines Judaic and American musical traditions through infectious klezmer rhythms, soulful Yiddish refrains and a dynamic blend of jazz, Latin, folk and rock. Fronted by Leeav Sofer (Jewish Journal’s “30 Under 30”), the group features top Los Angeles musicians Janice Mautner Markham, Eric Hagstrom, Adam Levy, Nadav Peled and Ben Tevik, creating a sound that celebrates social justice, human connection and cultural heritage. Mostly Kosher has performed at major California venues including the Ford Amphitheatre, Skirball Cultural Center and The Music Center’s Dorothy Chandler Pavilion; appeared on five televised "L.A. County Holiday Celebrations"; and became the first Jewish ensemble featured at Disneyland, where it is celebrating its 8th year in the Festival of Holidays. Its debut album earned acclaim from BBC Radio, Songlines Magazine and World Music Network, while its music videos have won multiple film festival awards. Featured in the indie film "The Accursed" and UCLA’s “Secret Chord” concert series, the ensemble also serves as teaching artists and mentors, using music as a tool for healing, education and community engagement.
No False Ego
Los Angeles-based neo-soul, R&B and jazz fusion band No False Ego is dedicated to spreading messages of peace, self-love and authenticity through music. Formed by native Angelenos who met in high school in the San Fernando Valley, the group has been performing together for over two and a half years, cultivating a deep connection both personally and musically. Its sound blends jazz fusion, R&B, gospel and elements of progressive and math rock, creating a unique style full of vibrant energy and soulful expression. No False Ego has performed at venues across Los Angeles and was a finalist in the 2024 Majic Meows city-wide battle of the bands competition. It is also slated to perform at this year’s Valley Blockfest Festival. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Hiatus Kaiyote, Stevie Wonder and Amy Winehouse, the band performs a mix of original and distinctive cover songs, bringing a one-of-a-kind sound to every stage. No False Ego embodies its core values of living authentically and gracefully, sharing music that reflects the group’s truest selves with audiences everywhere.
Ponpon
Ponpon is a rising jazz vocalist and guitarist known for her soulful storytelling, expressive guitar work, fluid scat singing and signature whistling solos. Drawing on her East-Asian roots and the jazz tradition, she creates a fresh, emotionally rich sound that feels both timeless and modern, while captivating audiences with her magnetic stage presence. Ponpon was recently featured on "ABC World News Now", reaching over one million views in just two weeks, and has earned recognition from GRAMMY®-winning musicians, establishing her as a fast-rising force in contemporary jazz. For this performance, Ponpon will be joined by GRAMMY®-winning pianist Randy Waldman, renowned for collaborations with legendary artists such as Barbra Streisand, Beyoncé, George Benson and many others. Together, they will bring a joyful holiday celebration to life in a jazz quartet, sharing warmth, talent and beautiful music with audiences worldwide.
Reverb Tap Company
Based in Southern California and under the direction of critically acclaimed Artistic Director and Choreographer Leah Silva, Reverb Tap Company is a dynamic ensemble of young powerhouse dancers celebrated for their fierce footwork, inventive performances and cutting-edge fusion of dance and film. Known for bringing energy, precision and artistry to every stage, the company has produced its own full-length show and has been featured at the Emmy® Awards (Governor Balls), the Young Artists Academy Awards, the American Cancer Society, McCoy Rigby Entertainment, KTLA News segments, the 2018 Newport Beach Film Festival, the 63rd "Annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration "and renowned dance festivals across the United States. Reverb artists have earned gold and top placements at the International Tap Dance Championships in Germany; been finalists and Grand Champion winners of performing arts scholarship programs such as The Music Center’s Spotlight program and YoungArts; and been accepted into prestigious programs including Jacobs Pillow. With a focus on celebrating tap as a uniquely American art form that unifies traditions, heritage and cultures, Reverb Tap Company continues to inspire audiences, ignite joy and share the transformative power of dance with communities across Los Angeles and beyond.
Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca
Ricardo Lemvo blends Afro-Cuban rhythms with pan-African styles such as soukous, kizomba and Angolan semba, earning praise from the Los Angeles Times as “seamless and infectious.” Born in M’Banza-Kongo, Angola, and raised in Congo-Kinshasa, Lemvo was introduced to Cuban music through a cousin’s vintage LP collection. After moving to the U.S. to study law, Lemvo instead pursued his passion for music and founded his Los Angeles-based band Makina Loca in 1990. Lemvo sings in multiple languages including Spanish, Portuguese, Lingala, Kikongo, French, Kimbundu and Turkish, embodying the Afro-Latin diaspora. He has performed worldwide at festivals, nightclubs and performing arts centers, with his music recorded by artists such as Joe Arroyo and Orquesta Revé. His acclaimed albums, including "Mambo Yo Yo" and "Rumba Soy Yo," showcase his vibrant fusion of African and Cuban traditions. Lemvo and Makina Loca have appeared in film ("Dance With Me", 1998) and on international radio and television programs, including BBC Radio, NPR, CBS "Sunday Morning", NBC "Today", CNN "World Beat" and Rádio Nacional de Angola. Reflecting the diversity of Los Angeles, the ensemble inspires audiences to celebrate, dance and embrace joy through the universal language of music.
Sounds of Joy Kolintang and Angklung Ensemble
Formed in 2011, the Sounds of Joy Kolintang and Angklung Ensemble is a vibrant young angklung group of performers dedicated to sharing the rich musical traditions of Indonesia in Southern California. Originally comprising eight members ages eight to 14, the ensemble has evolved over the years, with new generations continuing the legacy of spirited performances. The group has delighted audiences at major events, including Christmas and Easter celebrations, Indonesian Independence Day at the Consulate, the Los Angeles Diaspora Conference and local community fundraisers. Through their performances, the Youth Angklung Ensemble showcases youthful talent, cultural pride and a deep passion for preserving and sharing the distinctive sounds of Indonesia.
Street Corner Renaissance
Street Corner Renaissance is a five-member a cappella ensemble of seasoned gentlemen who blend the smooth harmonies of classic doo-wop and soul with a fresh, contemporary edge. Founded by Maurice Kitchen alongside Torrance Brannon Reese, Kwame Alexander, Anthony “Tony” Snead and Charles “Sonny” Banks, with Bob Henley joining the group following the passing of Kwame Alexander, Street Corner Renaissance is as a celebration of timeless music and second-chance dreams. The ensemble gained national attention on NBC’s "The Sing-Off": Season 4, where it became crowd favorites and quickly went viral, amassing millions of views on YouTube and TikTok. Known for its infectious energy, masterful stagecraft and authentic street-corner sound, Street Corner Renaissance has opened for legendary acts including The Temptations, Chuck Berry, Kool & the Gang, Boyz II Men and Jay Leno, and has appeared on the PBS special "DooWop Generations". With charisma, humor and extraordinary vocal skill, the group offers audiences a captivating experience that celebrates nostalgia, artistry and the enduring power of pursuing one’s “improbable dream.”
