Hallé orchestra: Four unmissable shows to catch before the year’s out

Anyone who thinks classical concerts are all about Vivaldi and Mozart needs to catch this musical gallop through some of Elton’s greatest numbers. As well as Your Song, expect conductor Richard Balcombe and pianist George King to whip up a symphonic celebration of everything from Rocket Man to Circle of Life.

Kicking off the orchestra’s varied and heartwarming Christmas calendar, Finlandia pulls in Grieg’s wintery favourite Peer Gynt Suite to complement Sibelius’ titular piece. Also, head to the website for details of other festive highlights, including family and carol concerts, and The Snowman.

The perfect opportunity to check out the Bridgewater’s sister venue, this intimate show sees Elisabeth Brauß on piano, Sergio Castelló López on clarinet and Simon Turner on cello take on a programme of Beethoven, Zimmermann and Brahms.

Backcomb that hair, pump up those shoulder pads, dig out your most outrageous costume jewellery and prepare for the show you’ll definitely struggle to sit through. If Irene Cara and the Weather Girls don’t have you on your feet from the off, wait until Stephen Bell hits you with Bowie’s Let’s Dance and Michael Jackson’s Thriller.