The Missourians, a Dickens-style caroling group, is nearing the end of its season, but the public still has one more opportunity to enjoy a performance.
Their last public show is scheduled for 7 p.m. Sunday at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Westphalia.
Despite fighting quite a lot of illness, Director Suzie Nichols said her a capella singers have enjoyed the run of concerts they've performed this holiday season.
"We've really enjoyed singing in the churches, because we know the audience is there to listen," she said.
Dressed in Dickensian attire, the Missourians sing a variety of holiday music, both secular and sacred. Many of the members are alumni of the University of Missouri, and several were themselves University Singers, Mizzou's top choral group.
The group is a benevolent organization that raises money to help younger singers.
For private events, the carolers can be hired for $250. At several churches in the Mid-Missouri area, the performances are free, but the group uses those occasions to explain their cause and take up collections.
"Everybody has been very generous," Nichols said.
Once the singers are provided costumes - a small expense, Nichols said - the remaining funds support scholarships for MU singers. After 28 years of singing by the end of this season, Nichols estimated the group will have raised almost $88,000.
"Many of the performers ... find The Missourians are an opportunity to give back to their alma mater and an organization that enhanced their college and adult lives," she said.