Strictly star among highlights of Town Hall and Symphony Hall festive programme
B:Music have announced their festive programme at Birmingham venues Town Hall and Symphony Hall for the Christmas period.
Strictly Come Dancing’s Anton Du Beke is bringing his new show Christmas with Anton Du Beke to the Symphony Hall on 17 December.
The Ballroom King and Strictly Come Dancing judge joins forces with his dynamic live band, vocalist Lance Ellington, and a troupe of extraordinary dancers for an evening of music, dance and laughter.
Join Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra and a remarkable mix of guest artists on this year’s winter tour.
From the Boogie-woogie queen of the orchestra, Ruby Turner, to the iconic voice of Marc Almond, Jools will also introduce the new voice and guitar of British blues, 19-year-old Toby Lee (27 and 28 November).
B:Music is once again working with The Amy Winehouse Band, the original musicians who stood alongside Amy on stages all around the world (18 December).
In this show, the band, led by her long-term musical director and bass player Dale Davis and fronted by young vocalist Bronte Shandé, will bring an unforgettable experience and celebration to the Town Hall stage.
The Definitive Rat Pack brings an evening of festive classics to Symphony Hall (2 December), including White Christmas, Baby It’s Cold Outside, The Christmas Song, and Let It Snow, plus all-time favourites including Mack the Knife, That’s Amore, Mr Bojangles, and New York, New York.
Continuing the festivities, reconnect with the joy of Christmas with Festive Happening with AMC Gospel Choir and Manchester Camerata (13 December). This concert for the whole family will be given by two phenomenal organisations as they perform Christmas favourites in an unforgettable way.
Join Toscana Strings for The Snowman and The Nutcracker (1 December) and encounter a performance which is perfect for all the family.
And direct from the West End, the Olivier Award nominated show, The Tiger Who Came to Tea returns to Town Hall (27 December to 5 January).
B:Music is bringing some of the most magical festive favourites to its stages this year, all with a live orchestra playing the famous musical scores performed live to the film.
Home Alone in Concert (9 December) will feature the beloved film’s score, composed by John Williams.
Home Alone is heart-warming fun for the entire family, passed down through generations of adults and kids alike as festive tradition, and now, Home Alone in Concert will be a new way for audiences to experience a classic. Or why not make it a Christmas to remember with a special screening of one of the UK’s best-loved animated films, The Snowman (15 December). Alongside The Snowman film, the show also includes a fun, festive introduction to the orchestra, and a visit from the Snowman himself.
There will also be an additional short film, again accompanied by a live orchestra. Choose from The Snowman and The Snowdog (1.30pm) or The Bear, The Piano, The Dog and The Fiddle (4pm).
Other highlights of the B:Festive season include Kate Rusby (14 December) as she rounds off 2024 in style with her annual Christmas concert. The concert will feature songs from her latest Christmas album Light Years, and her previous six Christmas albums. The Christmas Carol Singalong returns to Symphony Hall (15 December), which promises family festive fun.
The multi-platinum selling vocal harmony group The Overtones are bringing the good times back to Town Hall on 14 December. Their concert promises to be a non-stop party from start to finish featuring songs for all the family.
Or why not come and spend a joyous hour singing carols with the superb Lichfield Cathedral Choir and Birmingham City Organist Thomas Trotter (16 December). Expect a selection of all-time favourites to sing along with, as well as a sprinkling of solo carols performed by the choir. Host Jeremy Nicholas will introduce the concert and ensure the audience leaves Town Hall filled with the spirit of Christmas.
The Big Christmas Party boasts a blend of festive pop hits and traditional favourites, featuring a live ensemble band, four headline singers and live music (22 December).
Over 25 years on, Ministry of Sound Classical, set to a laser light production, is brought to life by the London Concert Orchestra, sensational vocalists, and special guest AJ Gibson (28 December).
To see the full programme and to book tickets, visit the website.
Pictured: The Tiger Who Came To Tea. Credit: Pamela Raith Photography