MUSKEGON, Mich. — A community in western Michigan is commemorating the 40th anniversary of its cherished Singing Christmas Tree, a festive tradition that has become integral to holiday celebrations in the area.
The Mona Shores Singing Christmas Tree features a talented ensemble of 180 high school students forming a choir that stands an impressive 15 rows tall. This week, they performed 19 festive songs at a local theater, with two additional shows scheduled for Saturday. The striking tree-shaped structure reaches 67 feet (20 meters) high and is decorated with 25,000 LED lights, surrounded by lush greenery.
Shawn Lawton, who has directed the Mona Shores High School Choir and managed the annual show for the past three decades, described the experience by saying, “The Singing Christmas Tree is 100% a spectacle.” It follows a unique hierarchy where freshmen occupy the lower levels, sophomores and juniors take the middle positions, and seniors are placed at the top. The coveted spot just beneath the star is traditionally held for the “tree angel,” a student selected by Lawton who may not be the strongest singer but possesses a lot of passion.
This year, senior Makenzie Aney has been chosen for this special title. Aney, who uses a wheelchair, performs at the tree’s base, right in front of the stage. She expressed her joy about being selected as the tree angel, stating, “It makes me real happy and excited and joyful.”
Alongside Aney, the choir engages in lively performances of holiday classics such as “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and “Noel,” accompanied by a 50-member student orchestra from Mona Shores High School. A dedicated group of parents and volunteers ensures the event runs smoothly, both onstage and within the tree.
The Singing Christmas Tree has been a beloved holiday attraction for local residents for many years, but it has also gained popularity beyond the state, drawing fans from various regions and even other countries. Videos of past performances have increased its visibility online, making it a well-known spectacle. Lawton commented, “It’s become a bucket list item for a lot of people,” especially as he prepares to step down after this holiday season.
After being involved in this tradition for nearly three decades, the 58-year-old Lawton will retire at the conclusion of the school year. His successor, Brendan Closz, a graduate from Mona Shores who once performed in the tree himself alongside his three brothers, is co-directing the choir this year to facilitate a smooth transition. Reflecting on his time with the musical tradition, Lawton said, “Being a part of (the show) has been such a reward, and I am going to really miss that.”
