Ulster Orchestra gets into festive spirit

It’s shaping up to be a Christmas like no other, but the Ulster Orchestra is determined that our festive spectacular, ‘The Magic of Christmas’ will return once more this year – so you and the family will be able to enjoy a special online version of the concert from the comfort of your own sofa at 7pm on Friday, December 18.

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The festive extravaganza features Northern Ireland’s very own Santa – otherwise known as Derry Girls star Ian McElhinney – and features popular local performers Peter Corry and Emma Morwood.

The Orchestra will also welcome Cormac Thompson, the 11 year old schoolboy whose videos for his Nannie turned him into an online singing sensation.

The conductor and music arranger for the evening is Paul Campbell.

This wonderful one-hour Christmas show features an array of enchanting carols, festive music and a few little surprises that will make it fun for all the family – get ready to sing along in your living room and enjoy a real Christmas cracker of a night,

“It’s been a tough year for everyone, and it’s so important that we find ways in which we can still connect with one another,” said Patrick McCarthy, the Ulster Orchestra’s Head of Artistic Planning. “This concert is a perfect opportunity to do that; we’re really looking forward to sharing some great Christmas music, and bringing a bit of much needed glitter and sparkle to the end of the year.”

Julia Corkey, Chief Executive ICC Belfast/Waterfront Hall/Ulster Hall commented: “In a year that we’ve grown accustomed to staying at home, imaginative solutions such as streamed concerts mean that we can continue to celebrate and enjoy festive traditions safely.

“This special concert promises to be a fantastic evening of music and Christmas cheer.”

Tickets for the concert are priced at £12 per household and can be booked at www.ulsterorchestra.org.uk.