Page 200 - Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Coverage Book 2023-24

Her introductions and poetry reading of Oh Christmas Tree along with
seasonal messages of hope, peace and understanding ticked all the
boxes.

Guest performer for 2023 is Mezzo-soprano Kathryn Rudge who was
outstanding throughout. Sweeping on stage in red ball gown, she looked
like a flame flickering brightly during every song whether an either an
aria or a stunning interpretation of popular Christmas themed standards
as Over the Rainbow and I Could Have Danced All Night.

Conductor Ian Tracey, who has worked with Kathryn before, looked on

with sheer admiration as she received rapturous applause for her
versatility, Her interview about her Liverpool roots and career was both
sparkling and uplifting.

It is all about team work and what a line-up there is in Liverpool: The
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic

Choir were joined by the ever excellent Liverpool Philharmonic Youth
Choir under director Simon Emery.

The first half opened with Rejoice and Be Merry and ended with It's
Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas.

The success of these shows is the mixture of old and new, The
background stories of the carols and composers is always an enjoyable

part of the proceedings - entertainment and education with more than
sleigh bells on.

And the beautiful arrangements offer a new take on familiar classics.

O Come A Ye Faithful and In the Bleak Midwinter joined Silent Night in
succession of magical presentations.

A finale where orchestra and choirs donned festive hats added to the all-

encompassing sense of sharing happiness as they sent the audience off
with George Michael's Last Christmas.

Outside in Hope Street the concert lovers went home well and truly
spirited, so to speak.