December 21, 2007 -- CHICAGO, ILL. -- The Allegro Handbell Ensemble was featured today on NBC's In the Loop with iVillage at 11:00 AM CT on select NBC stations, including the Windy City's WMAQ Channel 5.

The show's hosts Ereka, Bill, and Kim, warmly greeted the ensemble members, who performed holiday favorites Deck the Halls and We Wish You a Merry Christmas (view clip).  The nationally-syndicated program was produced live-to-tape on Thursday afternoon in advance of the holiday weekend, but was filmed before a live studio audience.

"This was a really wonderful experience," says director Michael Surratt, "The production team was very kind and the ringers really enjoyed themselves.  Not everyone gets to make music on national television, and I'm pleased we were able to have this opportunity." 

Although the program is not carried in all cities, viewers may watch it live on the web at iVillage's website, and it will be permanently archived there this afternoon.

The Allegro Handbell Ensemble will peform at Chicago's Navy Pier this afternoon at 4:30 and 6:00 PM.  They will appear on the Winter Cabaret Stage.  The group's annual Christmas concert will be hosted at the Union Church of Hinsdale this Sunday at 4:00 PM. 

Photos by Mary Jaworski.