This is a sponsored article on behalf of the Royal Albert Hall.
When it comes to yuletide cheer, the Royal Albert Hall sure knows how to deliver. The iconic venue's got it all — Victorian grandeur, a jolly red colour scheme, and — most importantly — an unrivalled programme of festive entertainment, with performances to delight all ages.
There are over 30 events to choose from, including a few annual favourites guaranteed to get even the Scroogiest of souls into the Christmas spirit.
Here are a few of our highlights.
A cinematic Christmas
Christmas at the Royal Albert Hall kicks off on Saturday 2 December, with a screening of Home Alone. But this isn't just any old screening — as you watch Kevin McAllister outwit the Wet Bandits, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will perform John Williams' iconic score live.
There's another chance to catch this Christmassy edition of the venue's popular Films in Concert series on Sunday 3 December, or you can wait for Elf™ in Concert on Saturday 9 December, or La La Land in Concert on Wednesday 27 December.
A soulful Christmas
Hear a timeless festive favourite as you've never heard it before with the Gospel Messiah. On Thursday 7 December, Marin Alsop presents a unique arrangement of Handel's magnum opus, infused with jazz, gospel, R&B, soul and pop.
More soulful stylings come courtesy of Gregory Porter on Wednesday 13 December, then there's Trevor Nelson's Soul Christmas on Monday 18 December, with the BBC Concert Orchestra and an array of special guests — including Chic's Kimberly Davis, Lemar and the Kingdom Choir — performing reimagined Christmas classics.
A queer Christmas
Here's another orchestral extravaganza with a bit of a twist: On Tuesday 12 December, drag sensation Peaches Christ and conductor Edwin Outwater host A Christmas Gaiety, in association with the Clapham Grand. Expect West End belters, voguing, and outrageous renditions of Christmas classics at this queer variety show, with special guests including Sandi Toksvig, Baga Chipz, Le Gateau Chocolat and more.
A traditional Christmas
It wouldn't be Christmas without a carol concert or two! The Royal Albert Hall is hosting singalongs on Saturday 16 to Sunday 17 December, and from Thursday 21 to Sunday 24 December. Each show features a presenter and soloist, to help bring these classics to life.
You're also invited to get in on a more recent (but no less iconic) Royal Albert Hall tradition — Guy Barker's Big Band Christmas. On Wednesday 20 December, this swinging celebration of big band music returns for its eighth year. Expect jazz classics, hidden gems and Christmas oddities, performed by Guy and a cracking lineup of special guests.
Christmas at the Royal Albert Hall, 2-27 December. See the full programme and book your tickets.
