Jim Brickman's Digital Holiday Performances Raises Money For The Arts

Grammy-nominated songwriter and pianist Jim Brickman is tapping into the spirit of giving back. With a whole slate of virtual concert experiences on select dates through Dec. 23, each interactive performance will provide a portion of the proceeds to theaters and concert venues in different cities. Brickman, who grew up in Shaker Heights, will be giving 100% of the proceeds from his Cleveland show on Dec. 5 to Playhouse Square, which has long been a source of inspiration and support for him. “It’s our way of saying, ‘Thank you’ to Playhouse Square for everything they’ve done for me over the years,” he says. Brickman fills us in on what to expect from this year’s performances.

Saving Art
With the pandemic resulting in widespread unemployment and shuttered venues, Brickman wanted to raise money for a new theater and concert venue each night, so concertgoers are encouraged to virtually attend as many shows as they’re able. “The people I want to support are the places that have always supported me when I come to play there,” says Brickman.

Comfort and Joy
This year’s performances will occur on Zoom and YouTube with Brickman performing a range of Christmas hits from his downtown studio. Concertgoers can make requests for songs they’d like to hear on social media. Some performances will include guests such as singer-songwriter Anne Cochran in Cleveland. “I want it to be really special and unique and very community oriented,” says Brickman.

Surprise Gifts
Attendees can also upgrade tickets to have virtual meet-and-greets with Brickman and attend a private virtual after-party. But every ticket comes with a collection of gifts delivered to your doorstep before the concert with a Christmas stocking, CD and more. “I wanted it to feel like a whole experience,” he says.