Cathedral swings open for festive season: Peter Corry hosts Christmas concert in St Anne's, Belfast
As the festive season nears, one of Belfast’s best-loved annual traditions is among the first out of the advent calendar.
In just a couple of weeks, St Anne’s Cathedral in the heart of the city swings open its doors for a special concert presented by Northern Ireland’s own star singer, director, producer and actor Peter Corry, which combines traditional Christmas songs with modern classics for a special show in an unforgettable venue.
Curtains go up on December 12 and 13, including a matinee performance on the latter date, with organisers promising attendees can “soak up the spirit of Christmas through music and song” in the city’s 121-year-old cathedral.
Joining Peter Corry on stage will be two international singers who have made Ulster their home; the USA’s Dana Masters now lives in County Down while Kalon Rae, originally from Italy, is currently based in Donegal.
Rounding out the performers are Arco String Quartet and the Belfast School of Performing Arts choir.
Dana Masters, an acclaimed singer-songwriter in her own right who was tapped to work as a featured vocalist with Van Morrison, is renowned for her soulful blend of jazz, funk and R&B. She says Christmas is her favourite time of year, making it stretch across the whole of December in her house.
“Living in the foothills of the Mourne Mountains feels truly magical, and I love nothing more than being surrounded by friends and family at that time,” she says.
“To bring that spirit into the stunning setting of St Anne’s Cathedral, alongside Peter, and such a talented team, will be such a joy. Audiences can expect a night filled with heart, music and the magic of Christmas.”
Kalon Rae, known for appearances on ‘The Voice’ and ‘The X Factor’, has worked alongside music stars including Coldplay, George Michael and Take That, and says he’s at home singing everything from opera to contemporary styles fusing anthemic pop with a cinematic flair.
“To be part of Christmas at the Cathedral is something I’m really looking forward to,” he states. “It’s a chance to share the stage with Peter, Dana and the wonderful BSPA Voices Choir in such a breath-taking venue.
“I’ll even be revisiting my time performing on stage with George Michael, so audiences can expect a special rendition of the festive classic ‘Last Christmas’.”
The cathedral’s annual festival concert is, says Peter Corry, “always such a special occasion”.
“It’s about celebrating the season together in the most beautiful of settings,” he states. “I’m thrilled this year to be joined by Dana and Kalon – two extraordinarily talented and dynamic performers, who will be a great treat for our audiences.
“Whether you’ve been coming for years or if this will be your first time, it promises to be an unforgettable way to start your Christmas celebrations.”
Christmas at the Cathedral takes place at St Anne’s Cathedral on Belfast’s Donegall Street on Friday December 12 at 7.30pm, and on Saturday December 13 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.
Tickets, ranging from £28.50 to £35, are available now from www.petercorryproductions.com