Anyone who has seen singer-songwriter Krystle Dos Santos perform will be fully aware of her warm and engaging stage presence. The two-time Western Canadian Music Awards-winner has had a hugely varied career, ranging from popular albums to starring stage roles to singing live with Stevie Wonder.

 

And speaking of Stevie Wonder, 2025 has seen her performing two sold-out residences at Vancouver’s Firehall Arts Centre with her brilliant show, The History of Motown. Completing a hat trick this December, she’s returning to the Firehall with A Very Merry Motown––a festive-themed show for all the family.

 

Dos Santos took some time out recently to answer five questions about her holiday show and her favourite festive music.

 

1. What can holiday audiences expect from A Very Merry Motown?

 

Feel-good, upbeat, joyful fun––as well as sing-alongs to some classic holiday songs with a Motown twist. We’ll be telling audiences a few of our own personal stories and also some of the band’s holiday memories––and we’ll even have some quirky ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas references!

 

2. What especially makes Motown songs a great fit for a holiday show?

 

Motown versions of holiday songs are especially joyful because I think in the darkest time of the year we kind of need the brightest music. Also those classic harmonies and arrangements really make for a fun way to enjoy holiday music. 

 

3. Nostalgic music is a big part of Christmas for most of us. What particular songs or music mean the most to you during the holidays?

 

I think the classics are what really mean the most to me. Nat King Cole’s version of “The Christmas Song,” Stevie’s Wonder’s “What Christmas Means to Me” and “This Christmas” by Donnie Hathaway are some of my personal faves. Those familiar sounds around the holidays really bring out those wonderful memories and feelings. 

 

4. What is the first record you remember receiving as a Christmas gift?

 

I’m not entirely sure it was my first, but Mariah Carey’s “Merry Christmas” album was certainly iconic for me. And “Christmas with Babyface” as well as Ella Fitzgerald’s “Ella Wishes You A Swinging Christmas” are definitely played every year in our home! 

 

5. If you could sing a Christmas duet with any Motown star from the past, who would you choose and what song would you sing?

 

Ooh that’s a hard one. I might choose “Someday at Christmas” with Stevie Wonder or anything with the Jackson 5––all of their Christmas songs are so groovy! 

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A Very Merry Motown, starring Krystle Dos Santos and friends, is on stage at the Firehall Arts Centre from December 17 to December 28. Visit the show's official webpage or click on the advert above for tickets and information.