GUNNISON – Embracing the spirit of the season, three exceptional local vocalists from Gunnison Valley are set to take center stage in ‘A Kurt Bestor Christmas Concerts’ at the iconic Casino Star Theatre on Dec. 18.

Scheduled for 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Kurt Bestor’s highly anticipated fourth annual Christmas show promises to captivate audiences with a magical evening of festive melodies. The stellar vocal talents of Amy Nay, Shae King, and Bethany Jessop will grace the stage alongside the renowned Kurt Bestor.

“A Kurt Bestor Christmas” stands as Utah’s longest-running annual Christmas music show, celebrating Bestor’s remarkable 36th year of delivering joyous concerts throughout the beehive state. Known for his annual holiday shows and the timeless song of peace, “Prayer of the Children,” Bestor’s influence extends globally.

This year’s concerts with Kurt Bestor commemorate the 30th anniversary of the acclaimed song, “Prayer of the Children.” Originally composed as a heartfelt tribute to the orphaned children of war-torn Yugoslavia, the song has resonated in memorials and peaceful protests over the past three decades.

Reflecting on the profound impact of the composition, Kurt Bestor expressed, “I am honored that this song has touched artists and music listeners worldwide. It is a privilege to provide a song that brings comfort and peace to so many.”

To mark this milestone, a statewide guest vocalist contest was held, with Gunnison’s soloists, Shae King and Bethany Jessop, selected to perform “Prayer of the Children.” Both will receive four concert tickets and a framed, signed collectible sheet music page.

Shae King, a rising star and sophomore at Gunnison Valley High School, brings her deep passion for music to the forefront. Having showcased her talents in talent shows and securing the lead role as Moana in the 8th-grade musical, Shae is honored to perform the poignant “Prayer of the Children” at the 4 p.m. show.

Bethany Jessop, a versatile artist and Miss Teen Sanpete 2022-2023, is proficient in various instruments and dedicated to community service. Having experienced personal loss, she sees singing with Kurt Bestor as an opportunity to share her love for music and pay homage to her late mother. Bethany will perform “Prayer of the Children” at the 7:30 p.m. show.

Amy Nay, familiar face and anchor of Fox 13 News’ weekend morning shows, extends beyond her news role to embrace her passion for music. With a background in singing and dancing groups during her college days at Southern Utah University, Nay is thrilled to contribute to the magic of the Kurt Bestor Christmas concert in her hometown. Her diverse experiences include singing the national anthem at a Utah Grizzlies playoff game, performing as part of her MC duties at Dixie’s Got Talent, and even making appearances as a news anchor in popular TV series like “Yellowstone” and a Christmas movie on Lifetime. Amy will share the festive spirit by performing a beloved holiday tune at both shows.

Tickets for this highly anticipated holiday event are selling fast, ranging from $35 to $50 for both the 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. shows. Secure your seats in advance at www.casinostartheatre.com, the Casino Star Theatre’s Box Office, or by calling (435) 979-9235.

Enriching the community since 1913, the Casino Star Theatre remains committed to its non-profit mission. Sustained by the generous support of local partners, including Roland and Julia Christensen, The Miner Foundation, Ensign Engineering, Central Utah Radiology, GV Recreation, Arts, and Parks, Hermansen’s Mill, Richard B. Nay, M.D., Rocky Mountain Power, and Jim and Suzanne Sanders, the live event series continues to preserve its historic structure and provide top-notch arts and entertainment to the local area.

Mark your calendars for the upcoming performance, “History That Doesn’t Suck with Professor Greg Jackson,” scheduled for Jan. 18. Prepare for a magical night of music and celebration as Kurt Bestor, alongside the incredible talents of Amy Nay, Shae King, and Bethany Jessop, creates an unforgettable experience in “A Kurt Bestor Christmas Concert.”

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