KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
December 2, 2022
By Natalie Cook Clark
Among the many Holiday traditions at Katy ISD campuses, Taylor High School’s Madrigal Dinner stands out as a student and community favorite. For 39 years their choirs have transported guests to the Renaissance with performances, food, and skits.
Taylor Choir students have lasting memories from the Madrigal Dinner. Here students from 2015 take the stage. Photo credit: Elizabeth Bucher.
Every December the Taylor High School Commons becomes a castle backdrop to one of the schools most beloved traditions, the Madrigal Dinner. Throughout a five-course meal, choir students perform music and skits that take people back to the Renaissance.
A Fundraiser Like No Other
The Madrigal Dinner has been entertaining guests for 39 years. Not only has this annual event been a fundraiser for the choir department but it has also become a tradition among the community and Katy families.
“The classic harmonies, the costumes…I love it all,” says 2002 Taylor High School and Expressions performer alumni, Rebecca Belsha Harris. “It was a family affair for us. Before I was in high school, I helped my mom make costumes for the men’s choir and watched my oldest brother perform. When I made Expressions, the first thing I did was research and design my costume.”
Photo credit: Elizabeth Bucher
Gail Land, Taylor High School’s original choir director started the Madrigal Dinner that was inspired by Renaissance Christmas-themed shows.
“The combination of music, costumes and setting makes for a very memorable and unique show,” says Casey Carruth, Head Choir Director at Taylor High School. “The show is constantly evolving and changes each year. A new Royal Court and Royal Lords and Ladies are named each year.”
For Harris, singing in the royal court at the Madrigal Dinner was a dream come true. This is an event that is often a memorable high school experience for many students.
“Each show is a memory that will last forever, and it bonds us all closer together,” says current senior, Jenny Liu.
Students wear elaborate costumes that range from peasants, beggars and the royal court. The set is complete with a draw bridge, fireplace, and castle walls that truly set the scene. Every choir member participates.
“I love this event because I get to meet and collaborate with new people across the choir department,” says Naomy Garcia, senior.
The show is Friday and Saturday, but tickets are closed for this year. The show happens the same time each year. “If you would like to support Taylor Choir from a distance, text 79230 with the message ‘Taylor’. This number allows you to check out our Madrigal silent auction,” says Carruth.
Next season, the Madrigal Dinner will celebrate 40 years of entertaining the Taylor and Katy community.
“I really enjoy the atmosphere of the event and being able to perform for the entire community,” says junior Andrew Ooi.