Winterdance features explosive dancing, equally explosive music.

It was 13 years ago when Pete Haworth, founding member and singer of Molly’s Revenge fancied a Celtic Christmas concert. Little did anyone realize what a storm was brewing. Haworth remains as concert director/treasurer of the Celtic Society of the Monterey Bay, but the modern version of Molly’s bears little resemblance to the band of yore.

“We return every year because it’s become such a tradition for people,” says John Weed, Molly’s fiddler. “We think there is something about the traditional instruments – bagpipes, fiddle, acoustic guitar and mandola, coupled with a female Irish singer and a group of Irish dancers – that brings an ancient quality to these carols, airs, jigs and reels.”

Concert host Jackie Pierce offers another perspective. “People are so bombarded with Christmas music and corporate marketing right now,” she says. “I think audiences find the show to be a bit more of an authentic holiday experience.”

At the heart of Winterdance stands Molly’s Revenge, a Celtic power trio if ever there was one, comprising classically-trained-turned-Irish-fiddler Weed, guitarist/mandolist Stuart Mason and the fiery David Brewer, who plays bagpipes, whistle and bodhran, an Irish hand drum. The threesome know one another exceedingly well, exuding empathy and musical chemistry.

As was the case in years past, the explosive Rosemary Turco dancers will adorn the stage with infectious energy and colorful costumery. New this year is the addition of California-born vocalist Amelia Hogan, whose roots far transcend her West Coast upbringing.

“My story begins with my ancestors in Ireland, Scotland and Great Britain more than 100 years ago,” Hogan says. “They left their homes out of desperation in search of a better life for themselves and their children. These songs are to remind you of where we come from. Who would speak their story now that they’re gone? It’s ours to tell so that no one forgets that they worked so hard to afford us [this opportunity].”

MOLLY’S REVENGE WINTERDANCE 7:30pm Friday, Dec. 21. St. Mary’s-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, 146 12th St., Pacific Grove. $28. 224-3819, mollysrevenge.com