(NEWTON, NJ) --  “Create a resounding holiday rock orchestra,” that was the 2002 vision of Twelve Twenty-Four co-founders George Houseknecht, Richie Kossuth, Lenny Kucinski, and Jason Santos.  A vision that was not only fulfilled, but one that energetically continues to this day. The band will perform at The Newton Theatre on Sunday, December 19, 2021 at 3:00pm.

Since its inception, the band has evolved from a five-piece rock band to a complete rock orchestra.  Over the years, Twelve Twenty-Four built upon the core rock band by adding a multi-member string section, several featured vocalists, and a dedicated road crew.  Although they only perform during the holiday season, Twelve Twenty-Four is a year-round project.  Behind-the-scenes production occurs throughout the year and rehearsals begin during the summer.  Their tour season begins in mid-November and continues through the end of the holiday season. 

Inspired by the music and stage presentation of some of music’s greatest rock orchestras, Twelve Twenty-Four presents a show that involves high-energy rock music combined with professional stage effects including theatrical lighting, smoke, and even snow.  If it appears to be a considerable effort for a month and a half of shows, Music Director Jason Santos said there are good reasons the group tours each year. “The way people come back every year…..it’s emotionally charging.  It’s uplifting when people are talking and they say it starts their Christmas off or they’re having a bad day and needed some spiritual uplifting,” Santos said. 

Twelve Twenty-Four prides itself on its efforts to support charities and worthy causes throughout their touring region.  When asked how this motivates the members of Twelve Twenty-Four, bassist Dirk Yahraes commented, “Christmas is the season of giving and this is the band’s way to give back and pay it forward. We welcome the chance to help those in need. We have donated some of the proceeds from our music sales to the Earthly Angels Autism Foundation and we have performed free shows for the White Haven Center.”  Over the years, the band has help raise tens of thousands of dollars.  These proceeds have benefited school music programs, fire departments, animal rescues, religious organizations, and arts institutes, to name a few.  Yahraes added, “This money goes back into circulation to benefit local communities. It is something we are very proud to be involved with and honored to be a part of.” 

As a special bonus for this year's performance, The Newton Theatre is offering discounts on group tickets for families and organizations; every order of $150 or more receives $10 off, automatically applied at checkout.

Twelve Twenty-Four: A Holiday Rock Orchestra performs at The Newton Theatre on Sunday, December 19, 2021 at 3:00pm. Tickets can be purchased online at www.skypac.org. Ticket prices start at $29.00. The Newton Theatre is located at 234 Spring Street in Newton, New Jersey.

 

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