The festive spirit filled the air as The SchuylGurlz, a seven-member a cappella group, performed a selection of beloved holiday classics at the Walk In Art Center in Schuylkill Haven on December 5, 2025. This performance was part of the Coffee House Cabaret series, offering attendees a cozy atmosphere to enjoy seasonal music alongside coffee and desserts.
Approximately 50 audience members gathered in the main gallery, where the ambiance was enhanced by twinkling lights and beautifully decorated evergreens. The group’s renditions of songs like “Silver Bells” and jazzy interpretations of “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” by Bing Crosby resonated with listeners, transporting them back to cherished Christmas memories.
Kerry McCaffrey expressed the nostalgia felt during the concert, stating, “It took you back to when you were a kid. I enjoyed every song.” The performance provided a refreshing break from the busyness of the holiday season for attendees like Ira and Jennifer Walton. Ira, an environmental consultant from Orwigsburg, noted, “It slowed down the pace of the season. It’s nice to just take an hour and relax.”
Holiday Music and Community Spirit
The SchuylGurlz performed a variety of holiday favorites, including “Deck the Halls,” “Silent Night,” and “White Christmas.” One standout piece was “There’s No Place Like Home For The Holidays,” originally recorded by Perry Como in 1954, which evoked a deep sense of sentimentality. The concert also included a lively version of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” a song that has remained popular since its release by Brenda Lee in 1958.
Shirley Robinson, who fondly recalled her time working in the gallery when it operated as the Walk In Shoe Company, attended the concert with her son and daughter-in-law. She shared her enthusiasm for the music, saying, “I love to look back. I love the old music and like to sing along with it.”
Founded by Jacquie Engel about five years ago, The SchuylGurlz includes five members from the Schuylkill Choral Society. Alongside Engel, the performers featured were Blair Boyer, Jennifer Koch, Ashley Elwood, Heather Butler, Laura Costa, and Diana Cosgrove. Although Ana Reyes was unable to attend, the remaining members delivered a captivating performance that delighted the audience.
More Upcoming Events at the Art Center
The Coffee House Cabaret event is part of a broader series of holiday-themed programs at the Walk In Art Center. According to gallery manager Laurie Minnick, the center recently hosted its Holiday Artisan Market, featuring 58 vendors on Small Business Saturday. The annual Festival of Trees, which showcases decorated trees from local businesses and nonprofits, was also well received.
Looking ahead, the center’s annual holiday party and fundraiser, known as the Jingle Mingle, is scheduled for 6 p.m. on December 13. This semi-formal event invites guests to dress in festive attire, with a special theme inspired by the witches of Oz.
The Walk In Art Center is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Located at 220 Parkway, Schuylkill Haven, the center features exhibitions from 15 local artists. For more information about upcoming events, visit walkinartcenter.org or call 570-732-3728.
The SchuylGurlz concert not only brought holiday cheer but also highlighted the importance of community gatherings during the festive season, enchanting attendees and reminding them of the joys of Christmas past.
