Deck the halls

Danielle Adams, Staff Writer

Published: Sunday, November 30, 2008

Updated: Monday, December 1, 2008

DTH/Zach Gutterman

The lobby of the Carolina Inn is decorated for Christmas, and the song, “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” is depicted in displays by local artists. Visitors can attend many holiday events from Wednesday to Jan. 4, including a dance lesson, luncheon and cookie decorating.

The first day of Christmas at the Carolina Inn will be Wednesday, and yes, there will be a partridge in a pear tree.

The Carolina Inn is hosting its annual celebration this month to kick off the Christmas season, featuring two artists’ interpretations of the holiday carol, “The Twelve Days of Christmas.”

From Dec. 3 to Jan. 4, the public is invited to attend several events, including displays from local artists, luncheons and a breakfast with Santa Claus.

“We’re really trying to vamp up the program,” said Laurence Bezy, marketing manager at The Carolina Inn. “We have a lot of new things going on this year.”

This year, visitors can take free self-guided tours of the two artists’ interpretations.

Jeannette Brossart, a self-taught artist and UNC alumna, created a pear-shaped sculpture from polystyrene foam, fiberglass mesh and custom cement mixes.

Titled “On the First Day…,” the piece features thousands of hand-cut glass mosaic pieces meant to reflect the gift of the partridge in a pear tree.

“Of course, the theme is from the Christmas song, and I think the image of a beautiful bird in a pear tree can appeal to anyone, regardless of religious affiliation,” Brossart said. “And I wanted the style to compliment the Southern charm of the Inn’s decor.”

Damian Hoffman, a sand sculptor, will also create a tribute to the carol. Beginning Wednesday morning, Hoffman and his team will sculpt his interpretation of a partridge in a pear tree and will continue until complete.

Other new events for the celebration include a holiday story time and children’s party, where theme and set designers from PlayMakers Repertory Company will give a lecture and introduce characters from “The Little Prince,” its current production.

“There really is something for everyone to do at the celebration, no matter how old you are or what sort of things you like,” Bezy said.

“We just want everyone to come out and participate in some activity because we have a lot of things going on this year.”

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