Geoffrey Castle returns for 10th annual Celtic Christmas concert

Published 1:30 am Thursday, December 7, 2017

EVERETT — He’s a charismatic showman, a talented musician and a guy who enjoys putting his audiences in the holiday spirit.

Don’t miss Geoffrey Castle’s 10th annual Celtic Christmas Celebration on Saturday evening at the Historic Everett Theatre.

The world-renowned electric six-string violinist will be joined by other instrumental musicians, singers and dancers to “capture the joy of the season.”

“We’re pulling out all the stops,” Castle said. “It’s gonna be a gas, a great show for the whole family. Yep, even teens will love it. We’re the antidote to a corny Christmas.”

Lots of new tunes are on the program, Castle said, “because last time I checked, I found that everybody needs some new Christmas music.”

Castle, who lives in Kenmore, will tour his Christmas show to more than six Western Washington venues in the coming weeks.

“I am looking forward to returning to Everett,” he said. “I love my fans there.”

A graduate of Columbia University, Castle has called Western Washington home for more than 20 years. From his beginnings as a street musician in New York City, he rose to play in the Tony award-winning Broadway production of “M. Butterfly.”

Castle then set out to change the average notion of what is possible on a violin with his explosive talents. He has been a pioneer on the six-string electric violin, and has performed and recorded with many of the country’s top rock bands.

Returning to perform in Everett with Castle are local opera stars Pamela Casella and Veronica Nim, a mother-daughter duo. “Pamela has sung with Pavarotti and performed around the world. She’s amazing. And Veronica has been a star since she was 6 years old,” Castle said.

With Seattle Opera, Casella has performed leading roles in Wagner’s “Ring of the Niebelungen,” Bizet’s “Carmen,” Puccini’s “La Boheme,” and Mozart’s “The Magic Flute.” Along with Seattle Opera, Nim has performed with the Metropolitan Opera, Tacoma Opera, Lyric Opera Northwest and in musical comedy at the 5th Avenue Theatre.

The Seattle Irish Dance Co. adds much to the show, Castle said. Technically tops, the dancers also are fun, funny and able to blend traditional steps with contemporary rhythms, Castle said.

His band is in top form, too, Castle said, and it includes keyboardist Mark Cardenas, percussionists Darin Watkins and TJ Morris, bassists Steve Boyce and guitarist Dan Connolly.

Joining them will be Rock and Roll Hall Fame member Alan White, who played drums with the band Yes. White also recorded with Ginger Baker, Joe Cocker, George Harrison, and on John Lennon’s “Imagine” album.

“So on Saturday night, we will all be one degree of separation from a Beatle,” said Castle with a laugh. “I hope we have a big crowd.”

Castle’s Celtic Christmas Celebration

The concert begins at 8 p.m. Dec. 9 at Historic Everett Theatre, 2911 Colby Ave. Tickets are $22-$35. Call 425-258-6766.

Castle also is performing at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 23 at Northshore Performing Arts Center, 18125 92nd Ave. NE, Bothell. From $20. Call 425-298-3449. More information is at www.geoffreycastle.com.