The Royal Albert Hall has always been synonymous with spectacle, but this year’s My Christmas Orchestra Adventure transformed the iconic venue into a glittering wonderland of music, dance, and imagination.

The evening began with a playful twist: the band, clad in Christmas jumpers, made their entrance not from the stage but down the aisles, fashionably late and brimming with mischief. Their arrival set the tone for a show that refused to take itself too seriously, blending humour with high artistry. Soon after, dancers in red leotards and Santa hats burst forth, their choreography shimmering with festive red and glitter, turning the Hall into a living Christmas card.

The narrative thread was delightfully whimsical. A map fell from above, inscribed with the names of children across the world. The mission was clear: return it to Father Christmas. Brothers Tom Redmond (conductor) and Tim Redmond (Chief Adventurer) led the storytelling with charm and wit, guiding orchestra, choir, and audience alike through the fantastical journey. Strings sparkled like sleigh bells, brass thundered like reindeer hooves, and percussion rumbled like sleigh runners on snow.

Audience participation was centre. One of the most engaging moments came with a rollicking rendition of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. The singers led the chant, the audience tapped their thighs in time with the music, while the orchestra painted each obstacle in sound, swishing through grass, splashing through rivers, and squelching through oozy mud. Children jumped, stomped, and laughed, their actions mirrored by delighted parents, turning the Hall into a giant playground of imagination.

Even the interval became part of the adventure. The chorus orchestrating Mexican waves across the tiers.

Yet the undisputed highlight was Buttall’s “Samba Aka Turka”, a riotous fusion of rhythm and humour That transformed the Hall into a carnival.  The entire audience on its feet, gleefully screwing in lightbulbs, stroking imaginary dogs, and wriggling their bottoms in abandon.

This was not just a concert, but an adventure: a joyous fusion of tradition and innovation, where orchestra, band, dancers led by their choreographer Amanda Matea, and audience truly united to save Christmas. The Royal Albert Hall has rarely felt so alive.

Five Stars

Reviewed by Nina Gardner

Two performances only on 7th December 2025.

https://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/series/christmas-at-the-royal-albert-hall