On 8th December 2018 with guests, The Belfairs Academy Choir, and a full and enthusiastic audience in the Salvation Army Temple, Hadleigh, the Leigh Orpheus commenced the concert with ‘Every Time I Feel The Spirit’ an African American Spiritual.
The Compere, Eric Smith, welcomed the audience and warned them they were also going to be participants, he also welcomed the guests Belfairs Academy Choir with their MD Kelly Ann Hall.
The Leigh Orpheus continued the Concert by singing ‘Angels Watching Over Me’ followed by ‘Rhythm of Life’, a very lively piece, the Compere informed the audience that the Pro’s were dancing to it last week on ‘Strictly come Dancing’.
Then it was time for all to take part in ‘Once in Royal David’s City’, the first verse was sung by a soloist from Belfairs Academy, then the Choirs and the audience sang together. These were well received.
After the interval the Leigh Orpheus, having changed into red waistcoats and red bow ties, encircled the audience and sang two traditional Carols, during the singing of ‘O Come O Come Emmanuel’, a group from the Choir sang two verses on their own, and then the whole choir sang the ‘Alleluia Madrigal’. Whilst The Choir were getting back to their places, ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’ was sung by everyone.
Belfairs Academy Choir completed their contribution by singing three songs including a solo of ‘Stars’, this was received with a standing ovation. The Compere thanked them for their performance and announced that the Belfairs Academy were to perform ‘Les Miserables’ on the 13th, 14th and 15th December at the Academy.
Leigh Orpheus sang their final set including ‘Sleigh Bells’ where the ‘Bells’ were shaken vigorously by Members of the Choir. The Concert was ended by everyone singing ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ and joining in a ‘Christmas sing-a-long’.