The festive season is upon us and the Culture Division has announced its full Christmas line up at VillaGaiety that includes brand new shows, cinema classics and returning favourites.
In a programme aimed to cater for every age and genre, highlights of the 2023 entertainment programme include 4 Seasons Explained with Vladimir and Anton Jablokov, A Wurlitzer Christmas Spectacular with Dr Peter Litman and the Cathedral Choir and Mannanan’s Winterfest No 6.
There’s nostalgia aplenty with Boney M and their special guests Heatwave, and the Retrospect Christmas party night will return for an evening of Soul and Motown classics. There’s an offering of classical music with The Isle of Man Symphony Orchestra’s Gala Concert and some light-hearted musical fun with Centre Stage’s production of Elf the Musical. Kensington Arts Centre will also be hosting some of the Island’s finest talent with ‘A Hero’s Christmas’ charity concert on the 16th December, an event organised in aid of Heroes on the Water.
The Isle of Man Arts Council is championing creativity with the return of their Christmas in the Arcade workshops running on the 2nd and 3rd December. In collaboration with Felicity Wood Designs and Debra Tracey-Carney of Isle Be Creative, these ever popular events provide the opportunity for families to come along and put their creative skills to practice with the support of talented local artists.
For film fans, Broadway Cinema will be screening a Christmas classic The Polar Express which includes some special surprises included in the admission price, A Christmas Carol featuring Simon Callow and there will be a concert spectacular with two screenings of André Rieu’s White Christmas.
The grand finale of 2023 is the flagship event in VillaGaiety’s performance calendar - the pantomime. This year Aladdin and his magic carpet will be flying onto the Gaiety Theatre stage from the 16th to the 31st December. Stephen Palfreman Director of Stage-Ed commented ‘Get ready to escape into the magical world of entertainment as our all-star cast are going to bring you magic lamps, flying carpets, and plenty of laughter for both kids and adults alike. We look forward to welcoming theatregoers new and old for what is set to be a truly wonderful, live experience’.
Panto festivities will officially launch on the 23rd November when the principal cast members of the production will be enchanting the crowd at the Douglas Light Switch On event from 6.30pm on the Howard Street stage. Other meet and greet opportunities will be available at Laxey Fair on Saturday 25th November and Saturday 2nd December when some of the cast will be in The Strand Shopping Centre from 11am.
Head of Culture and Arts Sarah Wilson-White commented ‘Nothing brings people together like Christmas and this year Culture Division have ensured that there really is something for everyone to enjoy at VillaGaiety. Whether it’s a festively themed show or a creative workshop, these experiences will delight and engage families and friends in the run up to Christmas’.
More information about VillaGaiety’s Christmas programme along with opening times over the festive period can be found at villagaiety.com/Christmas