Lord Mayor among the performers for Gala Christmas Concert

Lord Mayor Councillor Kieran McCarthy officially kicked off the festive season in the Council Chamber of Cork City Hall this week.

He launched the 61st Lord Mayor’s Gala Christmas Concert, which will take place on Saturday December 2 in Cork City Hall.

The launch featured performances by the Douglas ICA Choir, and Music Mash Up Mayfield, as well as one by the Lord Mayor himself, who will also be performing at the official concert in December.

As always, the Christmas Concert is a charity event, and the Lord Mayor has selected St Vincent de Paul, Féileacáin, and Music Generation as the charity beneficiaries of this year.

Representatives from all three were in attendance last night and spoke of their appreciation of the recognition for the vital work that they carry out.

As a lifelong fan of music and musical theatre, the Lord Mayor has certainly put his own stamp on the Concert this year.

The Lord Mayor spoke passionately about this at the launch event, saying: “Performance art has always been important in my life.

“So to be part of this concert alongside incredible Irish talent, and raising funds for organisations who support the people of Cork and beyond is an excellent honour during my term - I look forward to meeting our Gala Christmas Concert audience.” 

It will be led by Programme Director Yvonne Coughlan, and showcase a journey from opera through operetta to musical theatre.

Four talented soloists: Majella Cullagh, Karen Underwood, Simon Morgen and Christiana Underwood will feature in the 61st Lord Mayor’s Gala Christmas Concert.

Also performing alongside the Mayor will be the Cork Concert Orchestra led by conductor Brian Prendergast, Joan Denise Moriarty School of Dance, Douglas ICA Choir lead by Regina Gilley, Carrigaline Singers lead by Alan Carney.

The Ukrainian Kalyna Choir lead by Svetlana Deikun, who performed a special concert for Ukrainian families spending their first Christmas away from home will be held at Cork City Hall last December, will also feature.

Tickets for the event are sure to sell fast for this event, having sold out previous years, so those interested in attending are encouraged to book ahead of time.

Tickets range from €10 to €40 and can be purchased online through The Everyman website as well as in Pro Musica on Oliver Plunkett Street.