Christmas by Candlelight

I always look forward to receiving an invite to a Christmas concert, for me it helps people to get into the spirit of all things that are important about Christmas, it is also gives people the opportunity to reflect on all the things that has been good over the year as well as enjoying some beautiful songs and carols delivered by  a group of very talent performers. Performed in one of the most beautiful Churches in the area, St Michaels and all the Angels in South Shields is idyllic, and the acoustics gave the best harmonic composition making it the perfect venue for South Shields Operatic Society to perform their evening of festive musical arrangements.

Christmas by Candlelight was brought to life by its Director and Musical Director Stephanie Kay who brought together a combination of some of the most beautiful carols and musical numbers supported by Jonny Winter on keyboard who between them created an incredibly special evening of musical delight for the audience.

The concert was split into two halves with the traditional mince pies served in the interval. As the strong cast of thirty-three performers took central stage all dressed in black with red accessories, looking confident and professional ready to deliver the setlist of thirty songs with a combination of solo and chorus performances, which included two numbers “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “12 Days of Christmas” with audience participation.

The opening number delivered by the chorus “Wonderful Christmas Time” set the tone for the remaining of the concert with excellent harmonies and balance, every musical number delivered confidently. Special appreciation must go to some of my personal solo musical numbers including “Lonely This Christmas” by Phil Storey,  “When Christmas Comes to Town” from the film Polar Express by Philippa Storey, “Santa Baby” by Clare Dugdill, “Believe” by Ken Burlison, “Merry Christmas Darling” by Millie Adams, “Ley it Snow” sang by Diane Jackson, “Who would imagine a King” Stephanie Kay, “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” by Geoff Inskip, “Where Are You Christmas” by Ellie Falconer, “Home To You” by Hope Swan, “White Christmas” by Sally Forster. Every song beautifully delivered.

There were some beautiful chorus numbers including  “Silver Bells” fantastic harmonies, “Carol of The Bells”, “Christmas Lullaby”, “Jingle Bells” loved this interpretation of the beautiful carol and to conclude the concert “Do They Know Its Christmas” led by Rosie Ramsey and the chorus which concluded this marvellous and entertaining evening of Christmas Celebration.

Congratulation to South Shields Operatic Society on another beautiful performance, which from the sound of the audience appreciation after every single musical number was a true confirmation of the appreciation of the excellent talent of every single member of the society. Congratulations and thank you for the invitation and making my Christmas feel special.

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