PICTURES: Singers raised the roof of Inverness Cathedral for charity
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On December 10, 250 eager visitors took their seats at St Andrews Cathedral in Inverness to watch “The Greatest Christmas Songs of all Time”.
The event was created five years ago by Liz MacIntyre who wanted to raise money for Highland Hospice and this year the event raised more than £3500 for the charity.
Despite late Covid-related cancellations the show went on and provided brilliant entertainment for all who were able to attend.
The event was hosted by co-organiser James Martin, who provided a witty and moving commentary throughout.
The night began with a performance of Fairy Tale of New York sung by Torridon’s Kenny Smith and his wife Linda-Anne Smith.
Other Christmas classics like Last Christmas and Santa Baby were performed by a brilliant range of vocalists as soloists, duets and larger groups.
Attendees also enjoyed a spot of home baking and hot drinks as well as a raffle.
Speaking after Friday night’s show, Liz said: “Until 2019, we’ve had a small intimate concert of around 100 people using the Inverness Town House as the venue. However, coming our of the pandemic, for various reasons we decided to move the event to the cathedral for this year’s Christmas concert, and we are glad we did.
“Working with the staff at the cathedral, the move would see us able to sell more tickets and therefore raise more money for the hospice.
“We were hoping that we may sell an extra 25-50 tickets, so when the reports started coming in that were were well exceeding this we were absolutely delighted. And when the notification came in that the tickets had ‘sold out’ we were absolutely blown away.”
Many performances were coupled with dancers from TFX who provided beautiful choreography.
A moment of reflection also took place to remember the hard times everyone has shared in the last 18 months and to remind people of the ongoing struggle.
It was a night of festive cheer and fun.
Liz added: “It was so nice to be back raising money for the hospice in a safe, secure and Covid compliant event.
“Even despite our last minute challenges I think we put on a show that sent everyone home with a smile on their face and a feeling of Christmas cheer.”
