Merry Christmas

It’s an Australian tradition – the Christmas eve Carols by Candlelight broadcast from the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne. In some form or another, people fit this broadcast in around their planned activities as a part of their plans.

Even the grinchiest person can catch a little of the Christmas spirit from this broadcast, hosted by TODAY show hosts Karl Stefanovic and Lisa Wilkinson.

Santa & his elves Hi-5 & Humphrey B Bear will be on hand to offer the kids their own special Christmas eve fun (and some dads), and the list of performers is looking as impressive as ever. So, in preparation, get your chrissy puddings & egg-nog ready (or prawns & beers), and on the night swing wide your doors and turn up the tele and sing along loudly.

Gosh, reading the press release even makes me feel a little warm inside:

Joining the TODAY hosts will be Carols by Candlelight ambassador Ricki-Lee Coulter. “My most vivid memories of Christmas as a kid were watching Carols by Candlelight with the family and wishing it was me up there on that stage, and this year my wish will come true. I am beyond excited,” she said. Now in its 73rd year, Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight has become a tradition for households throughout Australia.

Audiences will be treated to performances by Kate Ceberano, Rob Mills, Anthony Callea, Marina Prior and
David Hobson, who will each perform a selection of all-time Christmas favourites. The Music Bowl will be set alight by the sensationally talented casts of Mary Poppins, Hairspray and Wicked, all bringing their unique style of music theatre to the night. Making it a family affair will be country music’s singing sisters, The McClymonts, as well as Sea Patrol’s Ian
Stenlake with his wife Rachael Beck.

Children’s favourites Hi-5 and Humphrey B. Bear will keep the little ones entertained.

No night of carols would be complete without a visit from Santa, taking time out from his busy schedule to
make a special appearance at the Music Bowl. Carols by Candlelight will again be conducted under the guidance of John Foreman, who is returning for his eighth year as musical director and his second as one of the show’s producers.

 

Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight – Friday 24/12/10  8pm, Channel 9