Advertisement

First Night Boston Announces Lineup

First Night Boston grand procession. (Paul Robicheau)
First Night Boston grand procession. (Paul Robicheau)

Here's the press release and schedule:

FIRST NIGHT BOSTON 2013 SCHEDULE LINEUP FOR DEC. 31, 2012

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE MAGNETIC FIELDS, LEE FIELDS & THE EXPRESSIONS, JOHN SCOFIELD, TANYA DONELLY AND MUCH, MUCH MORE(BOSTON) This year, First Night Boston celebrates the 37th edition of the country’s oldest and largest New Year’s Eve arts festival by announcing a line-up of world class events that offer something for everyone. On Monday, December 31, 2012 from noon to midnight, First Night presents its annual day-long festival of art, music, dance, ice sculpture, and more. First Night will showcase 1000 artists in 200 exhibitions and performances in locations all over downtown Boston, from the Waterfront to the Fenway. First Night welcomes children, families and revelers of all ages to celebrate community through the arts. First Night organizers strongly suggest visiting the interactive planner at www.firstnight.org to plan attendance. The schedule is subject to change and updates can be found on the website.

All First Night outdoor events are free, though supported by sales of the First Night button, which is the ticket for admission to indoor events. In addition, some cultural partners offer a “Button Bonus” program, including free admission on Dec. 31, and discounts before and after First Night. Button Bonus performances on Dec. 31 are listed here, and all others can be viewed at www.firstnight.org. Buttons are $18 (children under 4 admitted free) and are available at dozens of locations, including Shaw’s Supermarkets, Tedeschi’s, Au Bon Pain and J.P. Licks. Buttons are available now at a special web price of $15 only at www.firstnight.org only through Dec. 23. For more information, call 617-542-1399 or visit the web site.

INDEX
Popular & Experimental Music
Classical Music
Dance
Theatre, Comedy and Spoken Word
Film/Multimedia
FedEx Family Festival
Outdoor
Cultural Institutions and Museums

ROCK, JAZZ, R &B AND EXPERIMENTAL MUSIC
Animal Hospital Collective, Hynes Convention Center, Room 302, 8:30-9:45 p.m.
A 30 piece band transforms Kevin Micka's loop-based epics into a live surround-sound experience. "...Authentically immersive...The glacial chord changes and sumptuous white noise established a sense of silence and space, and at several transcendent moments, the band of 30 seemed to move as one living, breathing organism." - The Boston Globe "...A testament to Micka's reputation as one of the city's most important sonic architects and proof of a unified scene in our underrated city." - The Metro
-----------------------------------
Boston Saxophone Quartet, Hynes Convention Center, Room 206, 9 – 9:45 p.m.
The Boston Saxophone Quartet is a unique blend of musicians combining a tremendous range of repertoire and individual experience in wind performance. Members of the BSQ have performed with the Boston Pops and Boston Symphony Orchestra and leading Broadway theaters throughout New England. The BSQ can run the gamut from Swing, Ragtime, Jazz, The Beatles … all the way back to the Renaissance.
-----------------------------------
Cass McCombs, Boston Public Library Rabb Hall, 10:30-11:45 p.m.
The enigmatic Cass McCombs is something of an indie-rock heartthrob. The crooner first gained notice in the early years of the new century, releasing critically acclaimed records and touring with the likes of Modest Mouse, Blonde Redhead, The National, and The Walkmen.
-----------------------------------
CUFFS, Boston Public Library Rabb Hall, 7:30-8:45 p.m.
Cambridge’s CUFFS play literate guitar pop. They have released two singles and shared stages with Destroyer, Real Estate and the Pains of Being Pure at Heart.
-----------------------------------
Daylong Celebration on Boylston Plaza at The Shops at Prudential Center, 1 p.m. – midnight
Stand at the geographic center of the First Night festival on December 31, and enjoy exciting events presented throughout the afternoon and evening, including lively music, and eye-catching spectacle. Artists include John Powell, Qaor, Main Fader, Cortexelation, Solid State Entity, LRAD,Whoarfrost, Of The Sun, Andrew Goldman, Patrick Chaney, Julie Dion, Sam Perry, Tanya Fedan, and more.
-----------------------------------
DJ Jesse Kaminsky, Hynes Convention Center, Room 302, 7:30 – 8:15 p.m.
Artist/musician/radio producer Jesse Kaminsky, former host of WMBR's the Intercontinental and current host of WFMU's Kaminsky Kamoutsky spins favorites.
-----------------------------------
Emily Elbert, Modern Theatre at Suffolk University, 10-11 p.m.
Full of love, soul, and wanderlust, the 23-year-old Elbert has performed all over the U.S. and in 13 countries, from Peru to Palestine and Turkey to Thailand. Raised in Texas on a musical diet of Antonio Carlos Jobim, James Taylor, and ’60s radio, Emily first fell in love with guitar when she was 14. Electrified, she dove into writing, singing, performing and recording, and set her sights on attending the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, from which she recently graduated. The set will be broadcast live on WUMB 91.9 Folk Radio. Sponsored by Berklee College of Music, Suffolk University and WUMB.
----------------------------------
Gem Club, Boston Public Library Rabb Hall, 9-10:15 p.m.
Massachusetts-based trio Gem Club released their debut full-length, the reflective, haunting Breakers, in 2011.
-----------------------------------
Intransitive Recordings, Hynes Convention Center, Room 313, 7:30-11 p.m.
Perennial First Night faves Instransitive Recordings are programming another night of their signature electronic and improvised music. Performers include Howard Stelzer in his first solo cassette tape performance in over a year; rise set twilight, a multimedia presentation by composers/filmmakers/improvisers Mike Bullock and Linda Aubry Bullock; Jack Dice featuring John Twells (UK/Malden) and Walker Chambliss (Boston), two producers who share an interest in rap music, noise tapes and subwoofers; New Zealand ex-pat Peter Whincop, currently an instructor of electronic music at MIT, with his dense, monolithic digital noise; a rare reunion of Stelzer & Talbot; and DJ Nathan Trites playing 80s new wave, obscure electro-pop, and industrial disco between bands!
-----------------------------------
Israeli Jazz Collective, St. Paul’s Cathedral, 8:45 p.m.
Bringing a fresh voice and great talent, the Consulate General of Israel to New England presents a group of Israeli musicians comprised of young musicians, Berklee College of Music alumni as well as current students. The group will be playing original compositions as well of some of Israel's classics. Lihi Haruvi, the group’s musical director, has also recently played in the Newport Jazz Festival, Panama Jazz Festival and UNESCO First International Jazz Day.
-----------------------------------
Jenny Dee and the Deelinquents, NEC’s Jordan Hall, 8 – 8:45 p.m.
First Night is pleased to announce the return of the retro rock and soul stylings of Jenny Dee & The Deelinquents. Combining the girl group groove of the '60s, with the soul sound of the '70s, they perform covers and originals in the style of classic Stax and Motown.
-----------------------------------
John Scofield’s Überjam at Berklee Performance Center 8:45
First Night is pleased to host the first reunion show of jazz guitar master John Scofield with his legendary Überjam. 2013 will reunite this legendary band both on the road and in the studio. This group pioneered Scofield’s fusing of jazz, funk and electronic music to become one of the defining bands of his career. The original Überjam record was released in 2002 with Up All Night the following year – recordings that documented Scofield’s fruitful collaboration with guitarist/computer manipulator Avi Bortnick, drummer Adam Deitch and bassist Andy Hess. The group will be joined in the studio this winter by drummers Louis Cato and Adam Deitch for a release due out in May on Emarcy/Universal, before hitting the road for the remainder of 2013. The superstar guitarist is a 1973 alumnus of Berklee. This performance, a partnership between First Night, Berklee College of Music and 89.7 WGBH, will be broadcast live in Boston on 89.7 and on stations across the country as part of NPR’s annual New Year’s Eve broadcast “Toast of the Nation.” (Reserved seating is available for this show. Visit www.firstnight.org for info.)
-----------------------------------
Lee Fields & the Expressions, NEC’s Jordan Hall, 9 – 10:15 p.m.
There aren't too many artists making soul music today who had a release in 1969, back when R&B was first beginning to give the drummer some. Lee Fields, however, is one such artist--or maybe he's better labeled a phenomenon. Since the late 60’s, the North Carolina native has amassed a prolific catalog of albums and has toured and played with such legends as Kool and the Gang, Sammy Gordon and the Hip-Huggers, O.V Wright, Darrell Banks, and Little Royal. With a career spanning 43 years, releases on 12 different record labels, and having toured the world over with his raucous-yet-tender voice, it's mind-blowing that the music he's making today with Brooklyn's own Truth & Soul Records is the best of his career. With a catalogue that ranges from James Brown-style funk to lo-fi blues to contemporary Southern soul to collaborations with French house DJ/producer Martin Solveig, Lee Fields has done it all. Today, with The Expressions--Truth & Soul's house band, Lee Fields continues to evolve, enmeshed into the group's sweeping, string-laden, cinematic soul sound. Their first full-length together, My World, released in June 2009 on Truth & Soul, was called "one smoking mother of an old-sound soul record" and a "throwback done right" by Pitchfork. Treacherous followed in 2011, with Faithful Man, which paired Fields with the Truth & Soul house band the Expressions, arriving in 2012. (Reserved seating is available for this show. Visit www.firstnight.org for info.)
-----------------------------------
Lori Diamond & Fred Abatelli, Hynes Convention Center Room 206, 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Bostonian Lori Diamond and New Yorker Fred Abatelli, have been creating and performing folk music together in New England since 2007. Lori, an award winning songwriter (finalist, Great American Songwriting Contest 2010, Best Female Vocalist, Pulse Magazine 2011), combines alluring, soulful vocals and seasoned piano playing that are a perfect match for Fred’s solid finger work and clever phrasing on both bass and guitar. For fans of Norah Jones, Sarah MacLachlan and Joni Mitchell.
-----------------------------------
Magnetic Fields, Symphony Hall, 9 – 10:30 p.m.
The Magnetic Fields are the music of songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Stephin Merritt. In their two decade career, which began in Boston and then relocated to New York City, the band has released ten albums, including their seminal 3-disc masterwork 69 Love Songs. That album, released in 1999, continues to be celebrated as one of pop music’s great achievements; Tim Page described it as “an encyclopedic, flabbergastingly ambitious, opera-length work that riffed off everybody from Cole Porter to Steve Reich, Gilbert and Sullivan to Kurt Weill [and] established Stephin Merritt as one of the leading composers of his generation.” Stephin Merritt arranges and produces all his albums, playing many of the instruments as well. Additional instrumentation is provided by his band members: cellist Sam Davol, guitarist John Woo, percussionist/pianist Claudia Gonson, and singer Shirley Simms. The band has been touring throughout 2012 to support their new album, Love at the Bottom of the Sea (Merge Records). This will be their First Night debut. (Reserved seating is available for this show. Visit www.firstnight.org for info.)
-----------------------------------
Major Stars, Hynes Convention Center, Room 302, 10-11 p.m.
Closing live performance by Major Stars. One of Boston's most legendary Rock behemoths and Important Records recording artists.
-----------------------------------
Matthew Halpin’s Earwax Control, Berklee Performance Center, 7:30-8:15
Halpin's group, all students in the groundbreaking Berklee Global Jazz Institute, will be performing new compositions by the members of the group, and collectively improvising to a series of projected animations and film clips.Sponsored by Berklee College of Music.
-----------------------------------
Nathan Reich, Modern Theatre at Suffolk University, 8:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Nathan Reich was born in San Francisco and began studying guitar at 12. Nathan attended Berklee College of Music as a guitar major, where his unique style of playing predominantly with just his thumb earned him the nickname “Thumb Kid.” In 2006 Nathan wrote and recorded his first EP Paper Planes. Just before graduating in 2009 he released his first full length record, Arms Around A Ghost. In 2012, Nathan released his second full length, entitled All Night Pharmacy. He currently lives in Nashville.
-----------------------------------
New England Conservatory Youth Jazz Orchestra, Hynes Convention Center Ballroom, 5 p.m.
The Youth Jazz Orchestra is a new ensemble that debuted in September 2008 at the New England Conservatory Preparatory School. The Orchestra is directed by celebrated jazz artist Ken Schaphorst, who chairs NEC's college jazz studies department and directs the college-level jazz orchestra. Some of New England’s most talented and committed high school musicians will light up First Night with their big band sound!
-----------------------------------
Tanya Donelly, Boston Symphony Hall, 8-8:45 p.m.
Tanya Donelly is a Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter, and co-founder of the bands Throwing Muses, the Breeders, and Belly, and has also released four solo albums. Her latest project is a series of collaborations with various authors and musicians, which will be begin release in early 2013. Some of the collaborators involved so far are authors Rick Moody, Mary Gaitskill, Wesley Stace/John Wesley Harding, songwriters Kristin Hersh and Bill Janovitz, Claudia Gonson and Sam Davol of Magnetic Fields, One Ring Zero, Dylan in the Movies, and more to come as the series continues.
-----------------------------------
Walter Sickert & the ARmy of BRoken TOys, The Wireforest: An Evening of Spectacular Spectacle, Hynes Auditorium, 7:30-11 p.m.
Come on an adventure through time and space from Jules Verne to Jim Henson, sliding down the rabbit wormhole like Alice 20,000 leagues under the Labyrinth. Walter Sickert, winner of The Boston Phoenix Reader’s Poll – Best Artist 2011 and 2012, and founder/impresario of the SteamCRUNK band Walter Sickert & the ARmy of BRoken TOys, will host an evening of Time Traveling wonderment, previewing their new album The Soft Time Traveler. Joining them on this musical journey through time is Bent Knee, whose signature orchestral textures, haunting vocals, and dynamic compositions are the calling cards of their own twisted rock; as well as a host of others to be announced at www.firstnight.org.

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

CLASSICAL MUSIC
American Guild of Organists, Arlington Street Church, 10-11 p.m.
A program of varied organ works, performed by members of the American Guild of Organists.
-----------------------------------
First Church of Christ, Scientist, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Along with free tours of the Mother Church from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 – 7 p.m., First Church of Christ, Scientist offers a chiming concert at 2 p.m. and an organ recital at 4 p.m.
-----------------------------------
Heinrich Christensen, King’s Chapel, 9 – 9:45 p.m.
"Dance, Dance, Dance!" From King David dancing all over the Bible to Scott Joplin's Wall Street Rag, this program celebrates raucous dancing through the ages. Heinrich Christensen pulls out all the stops of King's Chapel's C.B. Fisk Organ and lets his feet do the dancing in festive musical fireworks.
-----------------------------------
Meet the King of Instruments, Old South Church, 3:30-4 p.m.
Experience the “Sensurround” magnificence of Old South Church’s mighty 1921 Skinner orchestral pipe organ – affectionately dubbed the “Copley Philharmonic Organ,” demonstrated by renowned organist Harry Huff.
-----------------------------------
BUTTON BONUS: Handel and Haydn Society Chorus at Museum of African American History, 2 and 3 p.m.
Museum of African American History and Handel and Haydn Society offer free admission to the first 50 button holders for two performances of a special concert in the Museum’s historic African Meeting House. Members of the Handel and Haydn Society Chorus perform on the eve of the sesquicentennial of the Emancipation Proclamation. Tickets will be available that day on a first-come first-served basis at the Museum beginning at 11am. Visit www.maah.org or www.handelandhaydn.org for more details.
-----------------------------------
New England Conservatory Children’s Chorus, HOLIDAY LIGHTS, Hynes Convention Center Ballroom, 3 - 4 p.m.
Hear a rousing collection of holiday songs from around the world. Bring the family and sing-a-long to holiday favorites.
-----------------------------------
Old South Brass, Organ & Percussion, Old South Church, 6:30 and 8 p.m.
The best of Boston’s brass and percussion artists join an organist with imagination and verve in a supersonic program of “Pipes and Pops,” playing electrifying arrangements of popular classics, as well as leading the audience in singing stirring favorites. Sponsored by Old South Church
-----------------------------------
Project STEP Chamber Orchestra, Hynes Convention Center Ballroom, 1 p.m.
Led by Project STEP alum, Mariana Green-Hill, this year’s program will feature the Honors String Quartet and two other chamber groups.

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

DANCE

Dianna & Damien's Divine Dominion, Hynes Convention Center, Room 312, 7:30 – 11 p.m.
Penny Candy curates an evening of stunning burlesque. (Parental discretion advised.) See www.firstnight.org for artists and more information.
-----------------------------------
First Night Skating Spectacular, Boston Common Frog Pond, 6 p.m.
The Skating Club of Boston celebrates the New Year at The Boston Common Frog Pond with the annual Skating Spectacular! Delight in watching spins, jumps, lifts and fancy footwork from our community of talented skaters. Students from the Skating Club of Boston Skating Academy show off their new tricks; seasoned competitors and champions from the local and national scene entertain.
-----------------------------------
OrigiNation, Hynes Convention Center, Ballroom, 8 and 9 p.m.
OrigiNation is dedicated to promoting the importance of self-respect, health, nutrition, education and self-esteem, while emphasizing the impact that African influences have had on dance. Under the direction of Shaumba Yandje Dibinga, they specialize in hip-hop, jazz, tap, step and Caribbean dance. These two companies dance together, in one of First Night’s signature pairings, for some explosive cross-cultural hip-step-hop.
-----------------------------------
Sean Fielder and the Boston Tap Company, Hynes Convention Center, Ballroom, 9:30 p.m.
The mission of the Boston Tap Company is to educate and entertain through art as a way of life. Spectacular hoofers from all over Greater Boston will tap the night away.

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

THEATER, COMEDY AND SPOKEN WORD
-----------------------------------
Boston Interfaith Clergy Group, Interfaith Midnight Peace Service, St. Paul’s Cathedral, 11:45 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
Make the transition to the New Year by spending the last moments of the old year at an inclusive, welcoming, interfaith service of music, songs and readings from many faith traditions, including Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, Jewish, Hindu, Bahai, Sufi, and Zoroastrian.
-----------------------------------
Boston Poetry Slam, Hynes Convention Center, Room 208, 7:30, 8:15, 9, 9:45, 10:30 p.m.
Poetry slam is a fast-paced competition where poets have a limited amount of time to impress judges randomly selected from the audience. Storytelling, lyricism, and stand-up comedy all come together in what’s evolved to a modern oral tradition.
-----------------------------------
Commonwealth Shakespeare: Winter, Hynes Convention Center Ballroom, 7:30 and 9 p.m.
This 50-minute, multi-media adaptation is a journey through loss, recovery and finally, rebirth in Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale. "Winter" creates a world of image, song and text that speaks directly to the modern experience.
-----------------------------------
Improv Boston, Hynes Convention Center, Exhibit Hall C, 7:30, 8:45 and 10 p.m.
ImprovBoston takes suggestions from the audience to weave their input, challenges, scenes, and songs into a wonderful performance for all ages, performing familiar 'games' as seen on TV as well as their own unique, hilarious brand of comedy.
-----------------------------------
A Kwanza Song, Hibernian Hall in Roxbury, 3 p.m.
Hibernian Hall offers free admission to button holders for A Kwanza Song at 3pm. Enjoy an inspiring performance that features storytelling, dance, and music presented by Mixed Magic Theatre.
-----------------------------------
Jim Lauletta, Hynes Convention Center Hall D, 10-11 p.m.
A favorite act wherever he goes, Boston-born comic Jim Lauletta mixes his cynical, biting, self-deprecating material with some of the most off the wall and original impressions you'll EVER see. Not only is Jim one of the most popular headliners in New England, he's a regular performer in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. His impressive resume of national television credits include: HBO's U.S. Comedy Arts Festival's Best of the Fest, A&E's Caroline's Comedy Hour, Comedy Central's Two Drink Minimum, and Comcast's Comedy Spotlight.
-----------------------------------
MassMouth Story Slam, Hynes Convention Center, Room 207, 8 and 9:30 p.m.
Story slam is a competition based on the art of storytelling. It puts a dual emphasis on content and performance, encouraging storytellers to focus on what they're saying and how they're saying it. It is an exercise in crafting stories within a set time limit. It is great entertainment. Prospective competitors can sign up at http://massmouth.ning.com/ or at the door for a slam slot. Themes to be announced. Look for updates on the Massmouth site and bring your best five minute story.
-----------------------------------
Princeton Movement Theatre, Hynes Convention Center, Room 209, 7:30, 8:45, 10 p.m.
In a series of wordless vignettes, PMT portrays angels, bounty hunters, slices of toast, photocopier homunculi, superheroes battling giant inflatable robots, and much more, involving audiences in a performance that takes place inside their own heads as much as on stage.
-----------------------------------
BUTTON BONUS: Pippin, American Repertory Theater, 7:30 p.m.
A.R.T offers free admission to the first 50 button holders for Pippin. Tickets will be available on a first come first-served basis at the Loeb Drama Center Box Office beginning at noon.
-----------------------------------
Tony V and Ken Rogerson, Hynes Convention Center, Exhibit Hall D, 7:45-9:45 p.m.
Well the election has been over for a month and a half and thank God, President Obama won! Or maybe he didn't, either way we haven't had much to laugh about since then. So before the next election cycle, which starts any day now, come join comedians Ken Rogerson and Tony V this First Night. No polls, no voting, no undecideds, no focus groups, just pure unadulterated, bipartisan laughter!

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

FILM/MULTIMEDIA

Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St., Cambridge, all day
Brattle Theatre offers free admission to button holders for film screenings on December 31, 2012. For schedule, visit www.brattlefilm.org.
-----------------------------------
Cecilia Major & Amy Gunness, Hynes Convention Center, Room 311, 7:30 – 11 p.m.
The Breathing Room - Art installation on display
-----------------------------------
Festival of International Short Films, Museum of Fine Arts, noon, 1:15 and 2:30 and 3:45 p.m.
A perennial First Night favorite! A collection of recent short films from all over the world, curated by the MFA Film Department. For schedule and titles visit www.firstnight.org.
-----------------------------------
New England Anime Society, Hynes Convention Center, Room 210, 7:30-10:30 p.m.
Back by popular demand! The New England Anime Society, convention organizers of Anime Boston, presents the best and most popular Japanese animation. For information about titles, visit www.firstnight.org.
-----------------------------------
Out of the Blue Gallery, Hynes Convention Center, Room 310, 7:30 – 11 p.m.
Live DJ and body painting by Adam Canvas Giangregorio and Patrick "the Candyman" Campbell. Watch and dance as Patrick & Adam transform the human body.
-----------------------------------
Patrick Chaney, Hynes Convention Center, Room 309, 7:30 – 11 p.m.
Immersive interactive video space with sound performance by Patrick Chaney. Experimental music, fostering new concepts of making and manipulating sound.
-----------------------------------
Roxbury International Film Festival, Hynes Convention Center, Room 200, 7:30-10:45 p.m.
Fresh, bold, innovative and inspiring films from the Roxbury Film Festival, New England’s largest film festival dedicated to celebrating people of color. Curated by The Color of Film Collaborative, Inc. and ACT Roxbury. Visit www.firstnight.org for specific program info.
-----------------------------------
Sam Perry: Interactive Kinetic Puppets, Hynes Convention Center, Room 308, 7:30 – 11 p.m.
An installation of various hanging mobiles. Audiences are encouraged to interact with the art, linking pieces of the mobiles together to form human and animal shapes. These shapes can then be puppeted by touch or manipulation of the strings. Materials consist of antique sewing machine parts, plastic, paper, wire and string. Sam Perry is a professional fire performer specializing in puppetry and the animation of the inanimate. Co-founder of the Grasshopper Collective and creator of the Spinning Fingers, Sam has been creating performance art for the last 7 years.

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

FEDEX FAMILY FESTIVAL
Airborne Comedians, Hynes Convention Center Hall D, 2 and 4 p.m.
Whether balanced atop seven foot unicycles or frantically flinging objects at one another, this pair of extraordinary jugglers is always ready to make a special delivery of laughs.
-----------------------------------
A. Major Dance Company, Hynes Convention Center Room 302, 4 and 5 p.m.
Under the direction of Andrea Herbert Major, this 45-year-old company delivers a sampler of lyrical jazz, hip hop and African dance.
-----------------------------------
Beehive Art Children's Art Studio and Gallery, Hynes Hall C, 1-6 p.m.
Kid's hands-on art! Buzz by and make glittery tiaras, jeweled crowns, colorful hats, magic wands and sparkling necklaces.
-----------------------------------
BJ Hickman, Hynes Room 203, 1:15, 2:30 and 4 p.m.
Family Festival favorite, magician B.J. Hickman, brings his latest comedy audience participation show to Boston, along with his magic bunny and lots of silly surprises.
-----------------------------------
Boston Bhangra, Hynes Room 302, 3 and 4 p.m.
Experience exciting modern south Asian pop music and dance based upon the traditional folk dances of the Punjab region.
-----------------------------------
Boston Children’s Theatre Show Choir, Hynes Hall C, 3:30 and 4:45 p.m.
To celebrate the spirit of the season, they will perform holiday favorites along with some exciting surprises. Led by Musical Director Daniel Blake, BCT’s Show Choir features the talents of over 20 teens from more than 20 Greater Boston communities.
-----------------------------------
Boston GreenFest, Hynes Convention Center, Hall C, 1 – 6 p.m.
Join GreenFest winter edition for eco-friendly demonstrations, crafts, and activities, including FIRST Lego Robotics!
-----------------------------------
Chu Ling Dance Academy, Hynes Convention Center Room 302, 1 and 2:30 p.m.
Ling’s Chinatown-based company delivers a fusion of traditional Chinese dance with the drama of martial arts.
-----------------------------------
Dinoman!, Hynes Ballroom, 2:30 and 3:45 P.M.
Have no fear, Dinoman is here! With magic, merry mayhem, and magnificent props, the audience is taken on a trip throughout the mesozoic era.
-----------------------------------
Dreamtale Puppets – “Rumpelstilskin” Hynes Convention Center Room 207, 2 and 4 p.m.
Rumpelstilskin follows the well-known fairy tale about a girl whose father, the Miller, loved her so much that he made up stories about her unusual talents. Truthfulness wasn’t something the Miller cared much about, but after he bragged to the king whose treasury coffers were empty, he put his only child into big trouble. His daughter Kathleen had to spin straw into gold or lose her life! Fortunately, an odd looking stranger jumped straight into the story and offered the help. Accepting help from strangers is always risky business, and that is how it was this time. After the king married Kathleen and made her into the queen, she gave her royal husband a child — but she was faced with losing it all if she could not pass one more test: finding well hidden word– the name of mysterious stranger.
-----------------------------------
Drum Central with Grooversity and IntaAfrika, Hynes Hall C, 1-3 p.m.
Can you feel the heat of the African and Brazilian drum beats? Join IntaAfrika and Grooversity as these young master drummers dare you to stay in your seat!
-----------------------------------
Ellis Paul, Hynes Auditorium, 3:30 and 4:45 p.m.
Noted folk singer/songwriter Ellis Paul performs selections from his latest album The Hero in You, a tribute to a wide array of American heroes, crafting vivid musical profiles of men and women whose words, actions, inventions and art made a profound difference to countless lives. Paul's eclectic selection includes some of the familiar names you might expect: Thomas Alva Edison, Rosa Parks, Jackie Robinson, Benjamin Franklin and Albert Einstein. Other choices are less expected: The tragic and heroic Nez Perce leader Chief Joseph, Nellie Bly, artist Georgia O'Keefe and groundbreaking dancer-choreographer Martha Graham. Paul connects his moving and celebratory biographical sketches with messages of positive reinforcement to young people to explore their own potential and follow their dreams.
-----------------------------------
Gerwick Puppets, Midwinter Magic, Hynes Room 312, 1:30, 2:45, and 4 p.m.
Debussey's Snowflakes Are Dancing inspired this musical fantasy about two children's wintry dream. This elaborate show has over 30 whimsical puppets of all sizes and shapes that interpret and visualize the music.
-----------------------------------
Greater Boston Chinese Cultural Association Workshop, Hynes Hall C, 1-5 p.m.
Make dynamic dragons, create your own lanterns, decorative firecrackers, dough figurines, and more.
-----------------------------------
Handel and Haydn Society Young Women’s and Young Men’s Choruses, Hynes Convention Center Ballroom, 1 p.m.
Young Women’s and Young Men’s Choruses — The choruses will present ensembles individually and combine forces for a finale of works by George Frederic Handel and Lowell. Seasonal favorites, including classical, popular, jazz and multi-ethnic music in four part harmonies. The Young Men’s Chorus (grades 8-12) led by Joseph Stillitano. The Young Women’s Chorus (grades 9-12) led by Alyson Greer.
-----------------------------------
Face Painting, Hynes Hall C, 1-6 p.m.
Imaginations run wild, as face painters transform little faces into works of art!
-----------------------------------
Jen Flores, Crazy Hat Gear for the New Year! Hynes Room 204, 1-4 p.m.
Come join the fun and thrills of an artsy afternoon for the entire family! With glittery fabric, glitzy papers and ribbons, make the most unusual New Year’s hats!
-----------------------------------
Landmarks Orchestra Brass Ensemble – “The History of Brass” – Hynes Convention Center Ballroom, 2 p.m.
Brass instruments have been around for a long time. The Romans and Greeks used them but during the Renaissance they became to look and sound more like we know them today. This performance tells the whole story, from the beginning to now, and is a a great introduction for young people to these wonderful instruments. After the concert, see how many instruments you can recognize at the Boston Landmarks Orchestra's musical game, Match the Music.
-----------------------------------
Magic Lantern Picture Show, Hynes Convention Center Hall C, 1-6 p.m.
This program of magical, mystical motion picture madness is designed for children and adults alike! These fantastic short animated films will amuse, delight and astound one and all!
-----------------------------------
Maximum Velocity, Hynes Hall D, 1:15, 3 and 4:45 p.m.
This professional stunt team features the hottest riders and skaters performing X–ups and 360’s over ramps and undertakers and pelironis on flatland. Sound dizzying? It is!
-----------------------------------
Morgan White Jr. – The Man from T.R.I.V.I.A., Hynes Room 202, 1:30, 2:45 and 4 p.m.
Known as one of the premiere trivia experts in the nation and one of only a handful of people who devote their full time to the field of trivia, Morgan White will challenge your knowledge of everything from animation to Boston.
-----------------------------------
New England Anime Society, Hynes Convention Center, Room 312, 1-6 p.m.
Back by popular demand! The New England Anime Society, convention organizers of Anime Boston, presents the best and most popular Japanese animation. For information about titles, visit www.firstnight.org.
-----------------------------------
Princeton Movement Theatre, Stories, Songs & More, Hynes Room 209, 2, 3:30, and 4:30 p.m.
"Stories, Songs & More" — Ever seen someone pull a rabbit out of a hat — without having either a hat or a rabbit? Join these pantomime artists for a series of skits celebrating the power of pure imagination.
-----------------------------------
Project STEP Chamber Orchestra, Hynes Convention Center Ballroom, 1 p.m.
Led by Project STEP alum, Mariana Green-Hill, this year’s program will feature the Honors String Quartet and two other chamber groups.
-----------------------------------
Puppet Showplace Theater, Dr. Doohickey and the Monster Machine, Hynes Room 208, 1:30, 2:45, 4 p.m.
Dr. Doohickey thinks that the world would be much more exciting if people were a little more like monsters. Join the doctor and his assistant Reginald the Rabbit as they use music, machines and a little magic to bring funny monsters to life. This original stage show combines multiple style of puppets and live actors.
-----------------------------------
Rosalita’s Puppets, Hynes Convention Center, Room 206, 1:5 p.m.
“Rosalita and the Giant Bugs” — Rosalita shrinks down to the size of her garden bugs and goes on an adventure. She must search low and high just to find the dragonfly. When she finds the dragonfly she'll be able to turn back to her normal size. This show references the classic stories of "Alice in Wonderland" and "Wizard of Oz". Audiences can try and spot the references.
-----------------------------------
Rumba y Timbal, Hynes Ballroom, 3:15 and 4:30 p.m.
Rumba y Timbal has its own style of salsa which blends Cuban rumba body movements, fast footwork, spins and acrobatics with elegance.
-----------------------------------
Scott Jameson, Hynes Convention Center, Rom 313, 1:45, 3, 4:15 p.m.
See the show audiences are calling “Superb!”, “A blast!”, and "Heartwarming fun for the whole family.” Join magician and juggler Scott Jameson for an extraordinary performance that will have you laughing out loud and perched on the very edge of your seat. Umbrellas will be plucked from thin air, a drawing will come to life, basketballs will be spun and juggled, and a member of the audience will unlock telekinetic abilities.
-----------------------------------
Simply Circus, Hynes Convention Center Auditorium, 1 and 2:15 p.m.
Watch and learn all about circus arts including gym wheels, tight wire, and aerial lyra, and try it yourself! Simply Circus are expert teachers for kids as young as 3, all the way up to adults.
-----------------------------------
The Skyriders, Hynes Hall D, 1:45, 3:30 and 5:15
This professional acrobatic trampoline team has won international and Olympic titles performing sky–high single, double and even triple twisting somersaults! They bounce with snow skis, snowboards, wakeboards and hula–hoops.
-----------------------------------
Urbanity Dance, Hynes Convention Center, Room 302, 3:30 and 4:30 p.m.
Bringing a fresh and imaginative approach to dance, the Urbanity aesthetic is an exciting experiment in elevating physical intelligence. Not only does Urbanity offer a breath of fresh air to the Boston dance scene, but also it is dedicated to pushing the limits of our community outreach.

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

VISUAL ART AND EXHIBITIONS
Battery Wharf's Pocket Museum
Battery Wharf’s Pocket Museum offers a free exhibit on maritime history from 1-3 p.m. Learn about Boston's maritime past and enjoy the ultimate hot chocolate bar and cookies provided by Fairmont Battery Wharf.
-----------------------------------
Boston Harbor Association
Boston Harbor Association offers free storytelling and family-oriented activities from 10 a.m.-noon. Refreshments by Cushman & Wakefield at 470 Atlantic Wharf.
-----------------------------------
Boston Public Library Art & Architecture Tours
BPL offers free guided tours of its historic McKim Building, highlighting the architecture and works of famed sculptors and painters. The 30-minute tours run on the half-hour from 1-4:30 p.m. Meet in the lobby of the McKim Building (Dartmouth Street entrance).
-----------------------------------
Fenway Studios
Fenway Studios offers free tours of its historic landmark building from noon-3 p.m. Visit the creative work spaces of artists working in a variety of styles from abstract expressionism to post-modern realism as well as print-making, decorative art, and portraiture.
-----------------------------------
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum offers free admission to the first 300 button holders from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (with family activities in the studio).
-----------------------------------
Made in Fort Point
Made in Fort Point offers free art activities led by artist Hilary Law of the Fort Point Arts Community from 10am-3pm. Refreshments provided.
-----------------------------------
Magellan Gallery
Magellan Gallery offers free exhibit of the Norman B. Leventhal Boston Harbor Map Collection from 10 a.m. - noon. View original historic maps of Boston Harbor and Massachusetts Bay while enjoying hot chocolate and Boston Harbor Hotel holiday cookies.

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

OUTDOORS
Karmaloop Countdown to Midnight with DJ Die Young, Copley Square, 8:30 p.m. – midnight
Boston’s hottest DJs anchor a multimedia celebration on the steps of the Boston Public Library. Join DJ Die Young, Baltimoroder, Coralcola, Nate Bluhm and Big Digits for this countdown extravaganza with dancers, images projected on the beautiful library façade and a spectacular light show.
-----------------------------------
Countdown to Midnight: Live on WBZ-TV, Copley Square, 10 p.m. - midnight
Join WBZ-TV Anchors Lisa Hughes and Jonathan Elias as we welcome in the New Year in historic Copley Square. Televised live on WBZ-TV beginning at 11 p.m. Across the street at the Karmaloop Countdown to Midnight, Boston’s hottest DJ’s anchor a multimedia celebration on the steps of the Boston Public Library.
-----------------------------------
ICE SCULPTURE: Donald Chapelle/Brilliant Ice Sculptures, Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner?, Boylston Plaza at The Shops at Prudential Center, all day and night
A sequel to fan favorite Here Fishy Fishy. In previous years brother and sister Margie and Norman spent their summers diving in the coral reefs of Southern Florida. Now almost fully gown and on spring break they are diving in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, unaware of the dangers that lurk below.
-----------------------------------
ICE SCULPTURE: Eric Fontecchio/Brookline Ice, Unity 2013, Copley Square, all day and night
After a contentious election year, Fontecchio captures in ice some of the things that unite us.
-----------------------------------
ICE SCULPTURE: Eric Fontecchio/Brookline Ice, Jack and the Beanstalk, Copley Square, all day and night
The classic fairy tale captured in ice!
-----------------------------------
LogMeIn Midnight Fireworks, Boston Harbor, midnight-12:10 a.m.
The skies above Boston Harbor will be transformed into a brilliant tapestry of color, light, and sound when the clocks strike twelve. A complete sensory experience unlike anything else, this spectacular display is especially created for First Night Boston by Zambelli Fireworks.
-----------------------------------
Panorama Magazine Grand Procession, The Nature of Boston, starts in front of the Hynes Convention Center, 5:30 p.m.
The Grand Procession has been the heart of the First Night celebration since the beginning in 1976. The Nature of Boston, First Night’s 37th anniversary Grand Procession, will be led by different pieces from the Back Alley Puppet Theatre and Puppeteers Cooperative, whose founders have participated in all 37 First Nights in Boston. Participants include Boston City Band; Codman Academy; Common Art; Curley K-8 Elementary School; The Cycling Murrays; Dinoman!; Franklin Field, Franklin Hill Dorchester “Healthy Boston”; Geometric Progression; The Greater Boston Chinese Cultural Association; Grooversity; Hawthorne Youth and Community Center; Hurley K-8 Elementary School; The Hot Tamales; Joseph P. Manning Elementary School; Mather Elementary School; Middlesex County 4–H Fife and Drum Corps; Nazarro Community Center; New Liberty Jazz Band; New Magnolia Jazz Band; Old Town Trolley Tours; OPENAIR Circus; Panorama Magazine; Pat Olezsko; Peg Preble/Gould Microcars; Roberto Clemente 21 Dancers; The Puppeteer’s Cooperative and the Back Alley Puppet Theatre; Renaissance Charter School; SambaViva; Second Line Social Aid and Pleasure Society Brass Band; Sheraton Boston Hotel; Simply Circus; Spontaneous Celebrations; Thomas J. Kenny School Marching Band.

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS AND MUSEUM PARTNERS
Boston By Foot, 2:30 p.m.
Boston By Foot offers a free 90-minute walking tour of the Boston Common and Public Garden for button holders. Learn about the history of these iconic spaces and discover sculptures, ponds, and ornamental plantings in their winter beauty. Meet at the corner of Park and Tremont Streets, outside Park Street Station.
-----------------------------------
BUTTON BONUS: Boston Children’s Museum, 10 a.m. – noon
Boston Children’s Museum offers free admission to button holders.
-----------------------------------
Bostonian Society/Old State House, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Bostonian Society/Old State House offers free admission. Tours and talks will be offered about the history of the Old State House, the Boston Massacre, and other topics on Boston’s revolutionary history. Special family programming will be offered throughout the day.
-----------------------------------
Mary Eddy Baker Library, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Mary Baker Eddy Library offers free admission to button holders. There will be performances by the Society for Instrumental Chinese Music at 11:30 a.m.; Zili Misik at 1:30 p.m.; and Back Bay Ringers at 3 p.m. All-day activities include face painting, arts and crafts, and crown-making.
-----------------------------------
BUTTON BONUS: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, 10 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston offers free admission to the first 300 button holders.
-----------------------------------
BUTTON BONUS: Museum of Science, 2-5 p.m.
Museum of Science offers free admission to the first 500 First Night Button holders.
-----------------------------------
Old South Meeting House, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Old South Meeting House offers free admission to the museum.
-----------------------------------
Otis House Museum, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Otis House Museum offers free admission to button holders. Experience the elegant life of one of Boston’s leading families just after the Revolution at the home of Harrison Gray Otis and Sally Otis, which will be illuminated for a New Year’s Eve celebration. Candlelight tours, featuring the home lit up for a party, begin at 5 p.m. From 6-9 p.m., enjoy live classical guitar by Chris Renna. Refreshments available for purchase.
-----------------------------------
The Unorthodox Arts Foundation at King’s Chapel, 7:30-9 p.m.
Join a period costume character on a tour of King’s Chapel and the neighboring King’s Chapel Burying Ground to hear stories of its lesser-known history. Tours run approximately half an hour, every fifteen minutes starting inside King’s Chapel.

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

____

RESERVED SEATING
A reserved seating section has been set aside for Magnetic Fields, Lee Fields & The Expressions, and John Scofield’s Uberjam, so people may purchase a guaranteed seat if they wish. These premium package tickets are $35, and each ticket purchase includes a First Night Boston 2013 button, which is the ticket for admission to all First Night indoor events. All First Night events take place on Monday, Dec. 31, 2012 and tickets are on sale now at www.firstnight.org. Approximately 30% of the venues for these select shows will be set aside for advance reserved seating sale, while the rest of each venue will be open to all First Night button holders on a first come, first served basis as usual. For more information, visit www.firstnight.org.
###

First Night Boston, Inc. is an independent, 501(c)3 non-profit organization. It is supported by public and private contributions, sponsorships, and through the admission sales of the First Night button. First Night Boston is grateful for the support of its major sponsors: The City of Boston, Thomas M. Menino, Mayor; Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau; LogMeIn, Inc.; FedEx; Karmaloop/Future of Boston Alliance; Massachusetts Convention Center Authority; Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Massachusetts Cultural Council and WBZ-TV.

This program aired on December 11, 2012. The audio for this program is not available.

Headshot of Ed Siegel

Ed Siegel Critic-At-Large
Ed Siegel is critic-at-large for WBUR.

More…

Advertisement

More from WBUR

Listen Live
Close