Press Release

Mayors Christmas Festival Promises To Fill The Air
With Music

Thursday, 14th December 2006

Expect wall-to-wall music this weekend as the city’s first Christmas Festival starts with a concert inside the Guildhall on Saturday, 16th December at 8.00pm. Doors open at 7.30pm. A wide range of seasonal music and carols will be performed by City of Derry Civic Choirs and the Western Education and Library Board (WELB) Youth Orchestra. The event will continue with a series of outdoor choral performances in Guildhall Square throughout the week.

The event is part of a council initiative to create a seasonal experience for everyone in the north west at Christmas.

Inviting everyone in the city to attend, the Mayor, Councillor Helen Quigley said:

“ This is the first year we’ve had a Christmas Festival and I hope people will feel inspired by the spirit of goodwill which is created by the wonderful choirs taking part.

“ Every day next week, choirs will be assembled outside the Guildhall singing a variety of carols and seasonal hymns to create a festive ambience within the city. I’m sure everyone will appreciate the wonderful atmosphere which is sure to lift everyone’s spirits.”

The Festival also includes A Time of Reflection and Reconciliation on Sunday, 17th December at 3pm, which encourages everyone to come together in Guildhall Square. It will create a neutral environment where people can reflect in their most personal thoughts while preparing to move forward as one community.

The Christmas Festival will culminate in a majestic rendition of Handel’s Messiah on Friday 22nd December, performed by Codetta and the City of Derry Youth Choir with Orchestra and Soloists. This musical celebration starts at 8pm inside the Guildhall.

Tickets for both events are available from the Millennium Forum Box Office. The launch event on Saturday 16th December is priced at: £5.00 for adults and £2.00 concession. A family ticket (admits 4) is £10.00. Tickets for Handel’s Messiah are priced at: adults £8, concession: £5. Phone: 028 71 264455 for details.

Information about the Christmas Festival is available on the Christmas campaign website at: www.derrycitycouncil.gov.uk/christmas

Ends

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