MUSICIANS will be walking in the air as a community unites for an annual festive fundraiser to remember.
The 16th annual Christmas Cracker concert takes The Snowman to its heart with a stunning exclusive screening of the popular animation featuring a live performance of its soundtrack in aid of St Teresa’s Hospice.
For more than 30 years the hospice has served Darlington, South Durham and North Yorkshire offering peerless day, community and in-patient care for patients and their families.
Volunteers, including a host of guest choirs, will stage the annual Christmas Cracker at 7pm on December 17, at the Education Village, Darlington.
Tickets are £12 on the door or £10 in advance, for children £8 and £5 respectively, available from the hospice or St T’s shops in Skinnergate, Cockerton and Mowden. There will be mulled wine and mince pies and the chance to win a luxury hamper, as well as a host of other prizes.
Musical director John Forsyth will again conduct the St Teresa’s Sinfonia Choir and Orchestra, featuring members of local choirs and operatic groups.
Choirs taking part all give up their time free of charge and include members of Cockerton Ladies’ Choir, Cleveland Philharmonic Choir, Richardson Singers, Cleveland Philharmonic Junior Choir, Egglescliffe Senior Choir, Darlington Choral Society, Darlington Operatic Society and Vocal Collective.
Volunteer orchestra members all give up their time to play and only have one rehearsal on the day of the concert.
Local band Apex will perform a cover version of Last Christmas, by Wham, which will be released as a charity single for the hospice.
Mrs Bradshaw said: “As the local choirs and musicians amass under the inspirational direction of John Forsyth, another magical performance is assured of music, songs and carols – it really is a special event.
“This lovely concert marks the start of Christmas for me and we feel privileged to be the beneficiaries of such a moving spectacle. We have moved to a new venue this year and the Education Village boasts plenty of free parking. The Snowman will be the centrepiece of a delightful, family friendly, festive and emotional occasion.”
For more information visit www.darlingtonhospice.org.uk.