The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square has announced that actor Dennis Haysbert will narrate the Christmas concerts scheduled for December 19, 20, and 21 at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City. Haysbert joins actress Ruthie Ann Miles as featured guest artists for this year's celebration.
Mack Wilberg, music director for the Tabernacle Choir, expressed enthusiasm about working with Haysbert. "The iconic voice and great stage presence of Dennis Haysbert will greatly add to the spirit and meaning of Christmas at this year’s Tabernacle Choir concert," he said.
Dennis Haysbert is known for his commanding presence and deep voice. He gained fame through his role as President David Palmer on the television series “24,” earning him Golden Globe and SAG Award nominations. His film appearances include “Major League,” and he currently stars in “Holidazed,” a Hallmark+ Christmas limited series.
Haysbert's distinctive voice has made him a popular narrator and commercial spokesperson, notably as the voice of “Meet The Press.” Beyond acting, he has participated in USO tours to support troops.
Tickets for this year’s concerts have been claimed, but a standby line will be available two hours before each event. Tickets are not needed for the "Music & the Spoken Word" broadcast on December 22 at 9:30 a.m., featuring performances by Haysbert and Miles.
In 2023, Michael Maliakel and Lesley Nicol joined the Choir for a live concert taped for airing this year. The concert titled “Joy: Christmas with The Tabernacle Choir” will be broadcast on PBS on December 17 and December 24, with additional airings on BYUtv from December 21-25.
The Choir plans to release CD and DVD versions of last year's concert along with an illustrated book based on its narration. These products went on sale October 25. More details are available on their website, TheTabernacleChoir.org.
The Grammy Award-winning Tabernacle Choir consists of volunteers who create their recognizable sound alongside the Orchestra at Temple Square and Bells at Temple Square. They have performed globally including U.S. presidential inaugurals while broadcasting "Music and the Spoken Word," now also available in Spanish.