“Hallelujah!” Barb Tester proclaims. “Yes, the ‘Messiah’ has returned!” writes Ann Whiting in regard to December’s clue, adding, “to Hill Auditorium that is.” Pictured “is the top of one of the four pillars on the front of Hill,” writes Cathy Strachan. “The hint,” says Eric Sobocinski, “is a seasonally appropriate reference to the annual UMS presentation of Handel’s Messiah … performed again this year.”

“It was a gift to return to Hill Auditorium,” writes Melodie Marske. “The building is a work of art that is a jewel in the crown of Ann Arbor,” writes David Karl about Albert Kahn’s 1913 design. Kahn incorporated a parabolic-shaped auditorium proposed by engineer Hugh Tallant that made it possible to hear the stage from every seat. The world-renowned acoustics were created according to the mechanics of searchlights, where light is reflected and directed in an even manner through interior shaping. “I have always found [this] building one of the most beautiful, inside and out,” Karl continues.

Kevin Gilson is our winner, drawn randomly from seventeen entries in December. He will enjoy his $25 gift certificate at Zingerman’s. To enter this month’s contest, use the image and clue on January’s Back Page and send your answer to the address at the bottom of the page.