One of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit is seeing a live performance. Musement shares 8 of the best in the UK and Ireland.
It’s nearly that time of the year: folks are filled with festive cheer and the northern hemisphere transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. There are hundreds of ways to switch on the holiday spirit – lights, chocolate, ice-skating etc. – but one of the best ways is to nestle down and enjoy a live holiday performance. Whether it\s carols, nativity, ballet or something completely different, the show is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
If you’re looking for some live holiday fun during this most joyous of seasons, here are a few of the best performances in the UK and Ireland.
1. How the Grinch Stole Christmas: The Musical – The Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff
Our favourite Christmas movie has made it to the stage and will be dazzling spectators this holiday season in the Welsh capital. We all know the story of the Whos from Whoville and the Grinch, but seeing it live with an all-singing and dancing cast is a whole new experience. Turn up your Christmas by checking out this music sensation.
2. English National Ballet’s Nutcracker – The London Coliseum
Few shows invoke the Christmas spirit as much as Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. This beautiful version, performed by the English National Ballet in London, tells the tale of Clara, Fritz and the evil Mouse King in all its glory. The visuals and music combine to make this ballet among the best you will ever watch so be prepared to be blown away.
3. An Edinburgh Christmas Carol – The Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh
Ebeneezer Scrooge comes to life in Edinburgh this Christmas with the city’s own take on Dickens’ famous novel: A Christmas Carol. Legend has it that the Victorian author was actually inspired to write this novel while he was strolling through Edinburgh and stumbled across a gravestone for an Ebeneezer Scroggie. Watch this heart-warming tale in one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious theatrical venues.
4. Viennese Christmas by Candlelight – St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin
The Irish capital celebrates the arrival of the incredible London Concertante for one night only this year. On December 14, the country’s finest orchestra will perform well-loved classical pieces from a range of composers. Expect to hear Strauss, Brahms, Tchaikovsky, and Schubert expertly delivered with unprecedented emotion and passion. Even if you’re not a classical music fan, you are sure to have a magical evening.
5. The Snowman – Theatre Royal Glasgow
The story of a young boy and his larger than life snowman friend is never so enchanting as when it is performed live at Christmas. This year, you can walk in the air with your favourite characters in lively Glasgow – Scotland’s second city. This is a perfect event for the whole family – you’re never too old to love The Snowman or to well up at the end.
6. Christmas Carol Singalong – The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester
The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. Yes, that is a quote from Elf but that doesn’t make it any less accurate. This year, at the finest live performance venue in Manchester, you can do your bit to spread Christmas cheer by singing your heart out at this Christmas Carol Singalong. Leave your inhibitions at the door, grab some mulled wine and enjoy a memorable evening with your favourite carols.
7. A Night of Christmas Music and Song – Ulster Hall in Belfast
This year, Belfast’s iconic hall kicks off the Christmas season in style by offering the public a night of Christmas festivities. Take a seat and allow yourself to be transported to a world of festive wonder with Christmas songs old and new. Tap your toes or sing along and the Belfast Operatic Company and the 1st Old Boys team up for your entertainment and pleasure.
8. Christmas Spectacular – Symphony Hall in Birmingham
Once you’ve finished exploring the myriad of stalls at Birmingham’s world-famous Christmas market, head over to Symphony Hall for a treat unlike any other. The Christmas Spectacular has everything you could hope for and more: singing, dancing, lights, music, and even snow! For a few hours, you will be drenched in Christmas cheer as you sing and sway to your favourite holiday tunes.