Christmas has arrived early as tickets go on sale for the seventh annual celebrity-packed Yuletide extravaganza that is Christmas At the Cathedral.
This year, the Christmas at the Cathedral concert will take place on Thursday, December 13 at St Nicholas Cathedral in Newcastle and, for the third year, funds will be raised for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation to help find more effective ways to detect and treat cancer.
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.
“Last year the show sold out very quickly and we had a lot of disappointed people who couldn’t get tickets. It’s an ideal way to celebrate Christmas by enjoying a top-quality show and knowing that you being there is helping such a worthwhile charity,” said Jonathan.
As ever, a number of celebrities have been lined up for the concert but to keep the element of surprise on the night, the organisers are keeping tight lipped about who may be appearing.
Last year, Stephen Tompkinson entertained the audience as part of a Geordie Nativity while in previous years stars such as Tim Healy, Melanie Hill, Billy Mitchell, Chelsea Halfpenny, Charlie Hardwick, Denise Welch The Mimic Men have featured in songs, readings and comedy sketches.
On the night, 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. Tyneside’s own Ray Laidlaw will once again produce the show and he is looking forward to an evening where everyone can relax and enjoy the show.
Ray said: “What a great way to kick start Christmas – a super show in honour of one of the biggest North-East legends. Sir Bobby will always have a place in every Geordie’s heart and we are honoured to be able to raise funds for his charity as well as highlight the amazing work they do to help those in need in our region.”
Lady Elsie says: “What a wonderful Christmas event this is and it’s in such a glorious setting. It’s always an extremely entertaining night and feels like the real start of the festive season for me.
“We’re very proud that our Foundation is involved and our thanks to the organisers, 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 £12 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
Doors 6.30pm, start 7pm
Standard £20, VIP £35 plus booking fees are now available from the Theatre Royal box office on 0844 811 2121.
Any companies wishing to support the event either through sponsorship or by VIP ticket packages, should email jonathan@jonathanwalliscs.co.uk
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Photo shows: Cooking Christmas Dinner with Ray Laidlaw, Lady Elsie Robson and event organiser Jonathan Wallis all in festive mood at the Cathedral.