Leslie Odom Jr. • The Christmas Tour • December 8, 2024 • Eccles Theater
Reviewed by Kevin Rolfe
Leslie Odom Jr.’s performance at the Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City on December 8, 2024, as part of his The Christmas Tour, was a breathtaking celebration of holiday spirit, musical sophistication, and Odom’s unmatched artistry. The evening captivated an audience of all ages with a blend of festive classics and fresh interpretations. Known for his versatility as a Tony and Grammy Award-winning performer, Odom transformed the stage into a festive haven of warmth and joy.
The Eccles Theater, located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, served as the perfect venue for Odom’s intimate yet grand performance. Odom has performed in Utah multiple times, often with the Utah Symphony. It was great to see him at Eccles. The acoustics and ambiance provided an elegant backdrop, enhancing the lush orchestral arrangements and Odom’s rich vocals. The venue was adorned with subtle holiday decor, creating a welcoming environment that mirrored the festive repertoire.
From the moment the show began, it was clear that Odom had carefully curated the evening’s setlist to balance traditional Christmas favorites with his unique jazz and Broadway-inspired flair. The audience, a mix of longtime fans and holiday music enthusiasts, responded enthusiastically, setting the tone for a memorable evening.
Odom’s vocals were the centerpiece of the evening, blending effortless technical precision with an emotional depth that resonated with the audience. Known for his powerful performances in Hamilton and albums like Simply Christmas and When A Crooner Dies, Odom brought his signature style to holiday standards. Songs like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “The Christmas Song” were delivered with a tender authenticity that showcased his ability to make well-loved classics feel personal and new.
His rendition of “Last Christmas” was a particular highlight, featuring a jazzy arrangement that had the audience clapping along. Odom’s vocal range shone as he effortlessly transitioned between soaring high notes and velvety lows, creating a rich tapestry of sound that filled the theater.
One of the standout features of Odom’s The Christmas Tour is his collaboration with top-tier musicians and orchestras. For the Salt Lake City performance, the accompanying musicians provided a vibrant, textured backdrop that elevated Odom’s voice. The arrangements, a mix of intimate jazz influences, brought new life to the familiar tunes. The synergy between Odom and the musicians was clear, reflecting a shared passion for storytelling through music.
Odom also took moments between songs to interact with the audience, sharing anecdotes and reflections about the holiday season. These personal touches added a layer of intimacy to the performance, making it feel as though he was sharing these songs in a more personal setting.
Beyond the technical brilliance, the concert’s emotional depth stood out. Odom’s performance of “Ave Maria” was a moment of pure transcendence, with the combination of his stirring vocals and the delicate orchestral arrangement leaving the audience in awe. Another standout was his rendition of “This Christmas,” which brought a joyful, upbeat energy that had the crowd swaying in their seats.
Odom’s ability to connect with the material and his audience was most evident in quieter moments, such as his reading of “Twas The Night Before Christmas.” The entertaining delivery captured the excitement associated with the holidays, bringing some audience members to give a standing ovation.
The evening concluded with a non-Christmas classic. Of course, Leslie Odom Jr. is known for portraying Aaron Burr in the smash Broadway musical, Hamilton. I think he surprised the audience with a stripped-down performance of “Wait For It”. It felt like the audience was hopeful that they’d hear something from this highly acclaimed musical. But being a Christmas concert, they had their doubts. I could tell by the audience’s reaction that they were beyond excited for this moment in the show. The applause following this song was probably the loudest of the evening.
Leslie Odom Jr.’s The Christmas Tour at the Eccles Theater has been widely praised for its polished production, innovative arrangements, and Odom’s magnetic stage presence. Critics have lauded his ability to reinterpret holiday classics while preserving their emotional core, a testament to his skill as both a vocalist and a storyteller.
Leslie Odom Jr.’s performance at the Eccles Theater was more than a concert; it was a heartfelt celebration of the season, combining world-class talent with the universal themes of hope and joy that define the holidays. For those who attended, it was an evening to cherish—a perfect blend of nostalgia, artistry, and festive cheer. As Odom continues to tour and share his gift with audiences across the country, his Christmas Tour solidifies his place as one of the most compelling performers of our time.
