JADAR

★★★★☆

Festive Happening, a staple of the holiday season, did not disappoint as it returned to the beautifully decorated Albert Hall for another sold-out show. The collaboration between Manchester Camerata and AMC Gospel choir, led by the talented Audrey Mattis and featuring
arrangements by Tim Crooks, delivered an uplifting and memorable experience for all in attendance.

The programme was a true feast for the ears, seamlessly blending the soulful energy of gospel, the smooth rhythms of RnB, and the elegance of a classical ensemble. This eclectic mix, though
unconventional, worked brilliantly, creating a unique concert experience that resonated deeply with the audience. The contrast between genres was striking—each style informed the other but never
overpowered it. The result was a sound that felt both fresh and familiar, especially for those used to traditional Christmas concerts.

The concert’s tracklist featured a wide range of songs, from the iconic ‘Oh, Holy Night’ to more contemporary choices like ‘For Every Mountain’. The performances of ‘Hark!’ and the Christmas Worship Medley provided moments of joy and reverence, while ‘Jesus, You’re the Centre of My Joy’ and ‘What Is This?’ brought a reflective yet still uplifting dimension to the festive proceedings.

The inclusion of ‘Everybody Knows’ and ‘Joyful, Joyful’, with which the concert ended, added a more playful, celebratory atmosphere. The choir’s rich harmonies, combined with the precision of the orchestra, created a stirring atmosphere that truly captured the spirit of Christmas.

One of the most surprising and bold choices was the performance of ‘Take Me to the King’s, which was handled with both passion and restraint. In contrast, ‘Oh, Holy Night’ stood out as a more
traditional piece (dressed up in modern harmonies), showcasing the choir’s impressive vocal range.

In an unexpected but successful pairing, the ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ from Handle’s Messiah was rendered with a gospel twist, giving the classic piece a new texture that was both surprising and
powerful. These moments of genre-blending kept the audience engaged and offered a refreshing take on familiar Christmas music.

The concert’s length—around 3 hours, split into two parts with a short interval—was just right for the format. The pacing of the show maintained audience engagement without feeling overly long, a common pitfall in large-scale holiday concerts. The performance was full of energy and soul, putting the audience in high spirits right from the start.

The diverse crowd—ranging from young
children to silver-haired concertgoers—showcased how universal the appeal of this festive event is. It truly felt like a real community celebration, uniting people through the shared joy of music.

However, it’s worth noting that while the experience was impressive, the ticket prices felt a bit steep for families. With tickets pushing over a hundred pounds for a group, it might be out of reach for
some. While the level of musicianship and the quality of the production were undeniably high, the cost of attending this concert raises some important questions about accessibility and value. For families or larger groups, the financial barrier could dampen what is otherwise a joyous occasion.

Overall, Festive Happening remains a wonderful way to embrace the Christmas season, blending a variety of musical styles to create a truly uplifting experience. While the price may be prohibitive for some, those who do attend are sure to leave with a renewed sense of festive cheer and an appreciation for the skill and creativity on display, for the concert continues to celebrate the power of music to unite and uplift.

Photo: Manchester Camerata / AMC Gospel Choir