Michael W. Smith 'Celebrate Christmas' Tour Features Orchestras, Third Day and Angie Miller
Long-time Christian artist Michael W. Smith announced the dates for his annual Christmas time tour called "Celebrate Christmas."
The tour will run for 10 dates beginning Dec. 1 in Murfreesboro, Tenn. and finishing up Dec. 15 in Detroit, Mich.
For the last six years, Smith has performed two nights- Dec. 9 and 10- with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and will end the tour with another symphony concert in Detroit.
According to a press release, all other stops will feature Smith with his full band and background vocalists, and at some dates an additional 18-piece string section.
"American Idol" finalist Angie Miller will be performing on every stop of the tour as well.
"I have looked up to Michael forever and have been singing his songs in church my whole life," the top three finalist said in a press release. "I am incredibly honored to be on this tour with him now!"
On the Dec. 5, 6 and 7 shows, Third Day will be performing as well.
"Anyone who knows me knows how much I love Christmas, so I always look forward to touring at Christmas. Having Angie Miller out with us will be a lot of fun. In addition to an incredible voice -- she brings an excitement and enthusiasm to the shows that I think will be energizing -- Christmas is special. It deserves to be celebrated and that's what we plan on doing!" Smith said through MergPR.
MICHAEL W. SMITH'S "CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS" TOUR DATES:
Dec. 1 - Murfreesboro, TN - World Outreach Church*
Dec. 3 - Jacksonville FL - Jacoby Symphony Hall**
Dec. 5 - Fargo, ND - Scheels Arena* (also featuring Third Day)
Dec. 6 - Sioux Falls, SD - Sioux Falls Arena* (also featuring Third Day)
Dec. 7 - St. Paul, MN - Xcel Energy Center* (also featuring Third Day)
Dec. 9 & 10 - Dallas, TX - Meyerson Symphony*** performing with the Dallas Symphony
Dec. 12 - San Antonio, TX - Summit Christian Center**
Dec. 13 - Salina, KS - Stiefel Theatre**
Dec. 15 - Detroit, MI - Fisher Music Center***
*date featuring Smith's band along with string orchestra
**date featuring Smith's band
***date featuring symphony
Smith has been a recording artist for 29 years. He has released 24 albums, received three Grammy Awards, 44 Dove Awards and had 33 no. 1 radio hits, 16 Gold, seven Platinum, and two Double-Platinum albums, giving him 15 million records sold.
Smith was inducted into the Gospel Hall of Fame in 2009.