Minneapolis, MN – On a bitterly cold Sunday afternoon – December 14th at the Orpheum Theater in downtown Minneapolis was bustling with holiday spirit. The Orpheum Theatre is an historic theater and is one of four restored theaters on Hennepin Avenue. The building opened on October 16, 1921, and was originally named the Hennepin Theater.
Mannheim Steamroller aficionados showed up to fill the theater despite the frigid cold. Everyone was in a festive mood for what has become a seasonal treat – a much anticipated Holiday concert performance. This year was no exception — founded by Chip Davis in 1974, their Christmas music and tours began in 1984, making this their 40th annual Christmas tour and the longest-running concert tour in the industry in what has become a holiday highlight.
The founder, Chip Davis, no longer travels when the group tours – however his masterful arrangements are performed by the talented group of musicians (a 15-member orchestra) who carry on the tradition. There are 2 pianists, one on either side of the stage, like bookends – with the string section on one side, brass section on the other. Center stage is Roxanne Layton – percussion & Tam-Tam and also center stage, Ms. Rebecca Kia-Mills (also known as Becky Kia) plays the solo violin and conducts. Kia, a longtime member, leads her own orchestra, featuring local musicians in each city, and is a veteran of the Omaha Symphony. Rounding out the talent are two drummers.
Christine Wisch, photo-journalist 3:00 pm, December 15, 2025