Commuters and visitors walking along Newcastle Quayside could have been forgiven for thinking that Christmas had arrived early as festive preparations were launched for a celebrity packed Yuletide extravaganza.
The sixth annual Christmas at the Cathedral concert will take place on Wednesday, December 13 at St Nicholas Cathedral in Newcastle and, for the second year, funds will be raised for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.
The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust that directly benefit cancer patients from across north east England and Cumbria and which also contribute significantly to international research into the disease.
Jonathan Wallis from Barnard Castle is organising the event which will see a host of celebrity stars perform songs, readings and comedy sketches with a Christmas theme.
“We have a number of celebrities lined up for the concert but we like to keep the audience guessing as to who may appear next as it adds to the excitement of the night,” said Jonathan. “I can say however, in our previous shows we have seen appearances by stars such as Tim Healy, Melanie Hill, Billy Mitchell, Chelsea Halfpenny, Charlie Hardwick, Denise Welch and Rebecca Root as well as The Mimic Men and footballers Bobby Moncur and Shola Ameobi, there’s something for everyone at this special time of the year.”
The Cathedral is transformed into a magnificent theatrical venue by the production team through the use of state of the art lighting and sound systems which, together with large screen TV displays ensure that everyone in the audience feels close to the performers. Ex Lindisfarne drummer Ray Laidlaw will once again produce the show which has been selling out faster year on year.
Ray said: “Sir Bobby was an amazing person and in this, the sixth annual concert, we will be highlighting the fantastic work that the charity does as well as raising funds so that they can continue doing what they do to help those in need in our region.”
Lady Elsie says: “We loved last year’s Christmas at the Cathedral and had wonderful feedback about it. It was a marvelous occasion. Very funny and moving at times, too.
“It’s a lovely time of year to come together to enjoy some entertainment and we’re all looking forward to this year’s show. Our thanks to all the performers and everyone who supports the event.”
Sir Bobby Robson launched his Foundation in 2008 and it has gone on to raise over £11 million to find more effective ways to detect and treat cancer.
The work funded directly benefits cancer patients in the North East and Cumbria and plays a significant role in the international fight against the disease.
Working within the NHS, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation does not employ professional fundraisers to proactively raise money and relies completely on third party, volunteer fundraisers and the incredible generosity of the general public.
Christmas at the Cathedral will take place on December 13 at 7pm. Tickets £10 plus booking fees are now available from the Theatre Royal box office on 0844 811 2121. A limited amount of VIP tickets are also available.
Any companies wishing to support the event either through sponsorship or by VIP ticket packages, should email jonathan@jonathanwalliscs.co.uk