A sparkling series of festive events is set to deliver a whole load of seasonal cheer to visitors to Durham Cathedral this Christmas.
The city landmark already has been adding a wide range of new experiences to its events programme of late - with the likes of Queen, ABBA and Elton John music set the lift the rafters this autumn - and it will be bringing some classic storytelling and animation in the weeks to come.
Before that, Luxmuralis, a stunning sound and light show - said to be unlike anything the cathedral has done before - is set to transform its interior with colour and illuminations from October 12-16.
Read more: See what to expect when Luxmuralis opens in Durham
Then among upcoming music events will be the Grammy-winning Soweto Gospel Choir on October 24, singing songs to commemorate South Africa's struggle for freedom, and Joe McElderry with a concert raising money for local suicide prevention charity If U Care Share on November 19.
As Christmas approaches Durham Cathedral will provide the setting for two Christmas classics: festive favourites A Christmas Carol and The Snowman - which will include the added treat of a screening of the new Shaun the Sheep film.
The production of A Christmas Carol, bringing to life Charles Dickens' heartwarming tale of how Scrooge learns to find goodwill for his fellow man, will take place on December 13, at 7.30pm. Chapterhouse Theatre Company is promising a " most beautiful family-friendly rendition of one of the most memorable Christmas stories ever written".
Tickets cost £18, £12 for five to 16-year-olds or £54 for a family of two adults and two children and a £1.50 booking applies to all tickets. Tickets for students and carers are free.
The Snowman, on December 21, will feature a screening of the animated film based on the Raymond Briggs story, along with a live orchestra playing the score. And the addition of the new Shaun the Sheep film, The Flight Before Christmas, means families have an opportunity to see this being staged with a live orchestra for the first time.
Presented by Carrot Productions Ltd, there will be three performances on the day, at 1.30pm, 4pm and 6pm, with tickets costing from £20.80 to £25.20, depending on the pick of seat locations which include areas of restricted view. Booking fees cost £1 and there are concession prices available for under 18s, the elderly and students.
To buy tickets for A Christmas Carol see here and for The Snowman see here. For full information about Durham Cathedral's festive events - which also include a G4 Christmas performance on December 9 - as well as the whole autumn and winter programme of tours and services, see here.
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