The RNCM brings the spirit of Christmas to life with a delightfully diverse festive programme this December

Kicking off the Christmas schedule in signature show-stopping style, the RNCM Opera invites audiences into the mysterious, eccentric realms of Chabrier’s outré opera, L’étoile on Sun 8 Dec.

Sizzling with wit and brimming with fantasy, Chabrier’s timeless satirical masterwork gallops from one act to the next in a riotous parade of humorous mishaps, mistaken identities and comical disguises, as King Ouf I, intent on celebrating another birthday with a traditional public execution, meets his match in the dissenting peddler, Lazuli.

L’étoile promises a delightfully entertaining journey through a kingdom full of whimsy in an unforgettable night of comedy and musical majesty.

Promising a toe-tapping night of show-stopping melodies and vibrant, infectious rhythms, iconic soul singer Madeline Bell joins the RNCM Big Band with a joyous programme of original songs and timeless ensemble works.

Having first arrived in Europe in 1962, the legendary vocalist has earned global acclaim both as a session singer for the likes of Dusty Springfield Joe Cocker and The Rolling Stones, and an illustrious solo career spanning more than six decades. Following her sold-out 80th birthday celebration at London’s Cadogan Hall last year, Madeline takes to the RNCM stage on Fri 13 Dec for an unmissable one-off showcase, adding a touch of soul-inflected warmth to the festive season.

Returning with another annual instalment on Sun 15 Dec, the RNCM’s ever-popular Christmas Family Day invites music-lovers of all ages to enjoy a magical day of creative activities, face painting, absorbing interactive workshops and a host of musical treats, before a screening of Magic Light Pictures’ delightful animated adventure, Stick Man, with a breathtaking live orchestral accompaniment throughout.

Tickets are available for the morning session (10am-1pm) or the afternoon (2.15pm-5.15pm). Book yours below.