- Multi-platinum-selling vocal harmony group The Overtones return to Town Hall with a spectacular festive show, featuring dazzling new songs, nostalgic favourites and plenty of seasonal surprises (4 December).
- Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert: Film with Live Orchestra returns to Symphony Hall, bringing the much-loved festive classic to the big screen, accompanied by a live orchestra performing its magical musical score (8 and 9 December).
- GRAMMY® and BRIT Award-winning soul star Joss Stone brings her festive show to Symphony Hall (11 December). Expect a joyful evening of soulful Christmas favourites and original songs from her ninth studio album, Merry Christmas, Love.
- Music icon Toyah Willcox takes to the Town Hall stage with her electrifying Christmas Party, promising a sparkling celebration packed with festive fun (13 December).
- One of the most loved and quotable Christmas films of all time, Love Actually, comes to Symphony Hall in a spectacular live-to-film concert, with a full orchestra performing its much-loved score alongside the screening (14 December).
The shop windows are sparkling; the Frankfurt Christmas Market is in full swing and festive parties are filling the diary- now it’s time to add a little B:Music magic to the season! From uplifting Christmas music and family-friendly entertainment to unforgettable big-screen experiences, there’s something for everyone on the iconic stages of Town Hall and Symphony Hall. So, gather your friends and family, embrace the festive spirit and make some special memories with B:Music this Christmas.
Love dance? Get ready to hit the dancefloor with Xmas on the Dancefloor, a spectacular festive extravaganza for all ages (21 December). Featuring special guest and Strictly sensation Gorka Márquez, alongside an incredible cast of world-class dancers, singers and the fabulous Xmas Dolls, this dazzling show brings your favourite festive hits to life with spectacular choreography, powerhouse vocals and infectious energy. From Mariah Carey and Slade to the Spice Girls, Whitney Houston, Elton John and Michael Bublé, expect a feel-good celebration bursting with glitz, glamour and Christmas magic, all on the iconic stage of Symphony Hall.
Love live music? From soul and disco to rock anthems and traditional carols, celebrate the festive season with some unforgettable live performances at Town Hall and Symphony Hall.
The Overtones are back, and they’re Jivin’ Home for Christmas! The multi-platinum-selling vocal harmony group returns to Town Hall with a spectacular festive show packed with dazzling new songs, nostalgic favourites and seasonal surprises (4 December). Expect an irresistible mix of timeless soul, doo-wop and disco classics with a festive twist, guaranteed to have audiences singing, dancing and getting into the Christmas spirit.
GRAMMY® and BRIT Award-winning soul star Joss Stone brings her festive show to Symphony Hall (11 December). Inspired by her ninth studio album, Merry Christmas, Love, the evening promises a joyful celebration of soulful Christmas music. Joss puts her own distinctive stamp on festive favourites including Away in a Manger, In the Bleak Midwinter and Let It Snow, alongside original tracks Bring on Christmas Day and If You Believe. With her powerhouse voice and infectious festive spirit, it’s the perfect way to get Christmas celebrations underway.
Get ready for a sparkling seasonal celebration as music icon Toyah Willcox brings her electrifying Christmas Party to the Town Hall stage (13 December). With a career spanning more than four decades, Toyah has established herself as one of Britain’s most distinctive and dynamic performers. From Top 10 hits including It’s A Mystery, I Want To Be Free, Thunder in the Mountains and Good Morning Universe, to memorable roles in cult films such as Quadrophenia, groundbreaking theatre productions and an extensive television career, Toyah has plenty to celebrate. Expect an unforgettable night of music, entertainment and festive fun.
For lovers of classical music, Christmas with Sir Karl Jenkins at Symphony Hall (20 December) offers a beautiful afternoon of carols and seasonal classics, inspired by his albums Joy to the World and Stella Natalis. Enjoy much-loved pieces including Silent Night, In Dulci Jubilo, Go Tell It on the Mountain, The First Nowell and We Wish You a Merry Christmas, alongside a selection of Sir Karl’s own favourite compositions. A wonderful opportunity to enjoy the magic of Christmas through music.
Love films? Bring a little extra movie magic to your Christmas celebrations with B:Music, as some of the most-loved festive films come to the big screen accompanied by spectacular live orchestral performances of their unforgettable scores.
Get ready for plenty of festive laughs with the comedy classic Home Alone (23 December). A firm Christmas favourite, this much-loved film features the magical and instantly recognisable score by legendary composer John Williams, performed live to picture by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Kevin McCallister’s hilarious festive adventures in a whole new way.
Or enjoy a heartwarming festive favourite with The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert: Film with Live Orchestra (8 and 9 December). This much-loved animated classic brings Charles Dickens’ timeless Christmas tale to life, with the Muppets taking centre stage and a live orchestra performing the film’s memorable musical score. Starring Michael Caine as the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, Kermit the Frog as Bob Cratchit and Gonzo as Charles Dickens, alongside Rizzo the Rat, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear and Robin the Frog, the film is packed with humour, heart and unforgettable characters. When the grumpy Scrooge is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future on Christmas Eve, he is forced to confront his selfish ways and discover the true meaning of Christmas. A magical festive treat for the whole family!
Other highlights of the B:Festive season include:
Love Actually Live in Concert: Film with Orchestra (14 December): Enjoy one of the most loved and quotable Christmas films of all time on the big screen at Symphony Hall, accompanied by a full orchestra performing its unforgettable score live in perfect synchronisation with the film. The perfect festive treat for fans of this much-loved romantic comedy.
The Snowman: Film with Live Orchestra (20 December): Make magical Christmas memories with a special screening of the much-loved film The Snowman, projected onto the big screen at Town Hall, with its iconic soundtrack performed live by a professional orchestra. Presented by Carrot Productions, this award-winning show features some of the UK’s finest musicians and promises a wonderful festive experience for all ages. There’s an extra treat, too, with Fleece Navidad, a hilarious Shaun the Sheep Christmas short film accompanied live by the orchestra. The fun continues with a festive musical medley, an entertaining introduction to the orchestra from CBeebies Musical Storyland composer Daniel Whibley, a special appearance from The Snowman himself and the chance for everyone to join in with a singalong of Walking in the Air. A magical Christmas tradition and the perfect family outing.
The Glenn Miller Orchestra (27 December): Keep the festive celebrations swinging with an unforgettable evening of big band brilliance at Symphony Hall. Step back into the golden age of swing as this iconic ensemble brings the unmistakable sound of Glenn Miller and the spirit of the 1940s to life. Featuring Miller’s original arrangements of wartime chart-toppers and much-loved classics, the concert also welcomes special guest Ray McVay to the stage, adding an extra touch of vintage glamour. Expect timeless tunes, thrilling performances and plenty of opportunities to swing along to the music that defined a generation.
To see the full programme and to book tickets, visit www.bmusic.co.uk/bfestive