Town Hall to Celebrate 150 Years of Music in Lord Mayor’s Christmas Gala Spectacular

The Gala will weave Town Hall’s history seamlessly into a family friendly Christmas celebration set to rival any the venue has hosted before. Audiences can expect to be enveloped in a tale of historical progression from the moment they set foot in the building.

“Adelaide has long had a reputation as a city that supports live music and performance,” says Lord Mayor Martin Haese. “Late last year Adelaide was named a UNESCO City of Music – the only one in Australia – in recognition of our commitment to live music in all its forms. The Gala is truly a reflection of this.”

First, audience members will be greeted by members of the Victoriana Society in full costume, and once seated will embark on a splendid auditory journey featuring a selection of the music that has been performed in the Hall over the years, from opera favourites, to jazz, musical theatre, contemporary hits, and the Hall’s tremendous organ.

Andrew Jefferis, the Gala’s Artistic Director, says audiences should expect “the best Gala in years” with the return of some old favourites, “including Keith Conlon in his role as Master of Ceremonies, the Graduate Singers, The Australian Army Jazz Ensemble, Hats Inc and the City of Adelaide Pipe Band.”

Guests will wait in excited anticipation though, says Jefferis, for a program highlight. “In the second half of the concert we are privileged to present operatic great Mario Bellanova with Naomi Hede, who will treat the audience to some of Europe’s most popular operatic favourites,” he says.

What’s more, in what might be a first for the Gala, the man for whom the concert is named will play for the audience. “Rachel McCall has prepared two special musical treats,” says Jefferis. “She is joined by Julian Ferraretto, Mark Oates, Keith Conlon and the Lord Mayor Martin Haese himself.”

“In keeping with the spirit of celebrating all forms of live music, I will be joining the fabulous Gala musicians on stage this year for a unique performance,” says the Lord Mayor.

But what’s Christmas without a Carol? Jefferis says yuletide joy will come into splendid display all through the concert with carols accompanied by the Hall’s iconic organ and cheeky Christmas elves appearing throughout. And, of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit from the man in red himself. Santa will delight those in the audience both young in age, and of spirit.

Lord Mayor’s Christmas Gala Concert
Adelaide Town Hall
Sunday, December 4, 2pm until 4:15pm with a 20 minute interval and free refreshments provided
Tickets complimentary for City of Adelaide residents, $5 for concession card holders and $15 for adults.
Tickets available via bass.net.au

This story is sponsored by Adelaide Town Hall