A magical evening of festive music and words

The Figgy Pudding four are back with Manchester Lit and Phil for another helping of Christmas music, poetry, readings and other festive finery.

Prepare to be transported into the mystery and magic of Christmas with an all-new programme including ancient and modern, the familiar and the obscure.

The evening will feature original writings from wordsmith and actress Kate Millward; solos and duets with singers Julia Morley and Jill Taylor; and the effervescent sparkle of the very talented pianist Claire Dunham.

The artists

Claire Dunham (pianist) – Claire is an accompanist, chamber musician, piano teacher and adjudicator. She enjoys performing and recording with intriplicate (flute/oboe/piano trio), Voci Dolci (with Jill Taylor and Julia Morley) and the National Children’s Choir of Great Britain. Claire has appeared on BBC Radio 3 and ITV and performs nationally in venues from St Martin-in-the-Fields to the Bridgewater Hall.

Kate Millward (actor/narrator) – Kate has narrated her original stories and poetry in a variety of stately homes and theatre venues, including presenting The Northern Chamber Orchestra’s Christmas concerts at Tatton Hall in Cheshire. Kate has also worked as an actor in TV and corporate training. She is currently lecturing at Salford University (Theatre and Performance courses).

Julia Morley (soprano) - Julia’s opera roles include Belinda in Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, and solo oratorio performances include Handel’s Messiah, Mozart’s Requiem, Rutter’s Requiem and Haydn’s Nelson Mass with Holmfirth Choral Society, Huddersfield Choral Society and Harrogate Choral Society.

Jill Taylor (mezzo soprano) - Jill’s solo recitals have included performances of John Taverner’s Russian song cycle Akhmatova’s Songs for voice and cello, Mahler’s song cycle Leider Eines Fahrenden Gessellen and Ravel’s Chanson Madecasses. Jill is also a regular guest soloist with northern choirs and operatic societies. She enjoys performances with Derek Blyth in lecture/recitals including Kurt Weill – I’m a Stranger Here Myself, No Regrets – the Life and Music of Edith Piaf and Degenerate Music, at RNCM, The Settlement Letchworth, Didsbury Arts Festival and for Manchester Lit and Phil.

Refreshments (mulled wine, mince pies, tea, coffee and soft drinks) will be available for an additional cost. Please select the appropriate ticket type when making your booking.

Host or Publisher The Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society