The festive period is here and there are so many shows that are available for audiences to go and watch! Over the next few weeks, we will be talking to lots of different shows and performers about what they have in store for this time of year! Today we find out all about the Christmas Festival that is happening at St John’s Smith Square in Westminster London between the 8th – 23rd December – there is a lot of different shows happening and you can find out more about t by clicking here.

Hello, tell us a little bit about St Johns Smith Square!

St John’s Smith Square is a Grade I listed Baroque building, with a stunning 18^th century hall and vaulted crypt, in the heart of Westminster.  Built from 1713 to 1728, for over 200 years, it served as a parish church. However, in May 1941, the final night of the Blitz, the church was hit by a bomb and lay as a ruin, open to the sky, for over 20 years. After restoration, in 1969 St John’s Smith Square was reborn as one of London’s finest concert halls, and has since attracted some of the world’s leading musicians and ensembles, including Nigel Kennedy, Melvin Tan, William Walton, Simon Rattle, and more. 

What concerts can visitors enjoy this Festive season?

This Festive season, our critically acclaimed Christmas Festival showcases the UK’s finest choirs, ensembles, and solo musicians. There’s something for everyone to enjoy – from orchestral to choral works, relaxed jazz in our crypt to an organ lunchtime concert – we have a wide range of thrilling concerts. 

This year, The Snowman will also be coming to St John’s Smith Square in collaboration with Carrot Productions, world leaders in orchestra and film events for families. Featuring the much-loved classic Walking in the Air sung by a child soloist and Southbank Sinfonia performing a live soundtrack to the film being shown on the big screen, this captivating performance is perfect for families looking for something special this Christmas. 

Will there be a bit of festivity in your shows?

Of course! As well as mince pies and mulled wine available to buy from our Footstool Café (located in our crypt), and Christmas decorations illuminating St John’s, all our concerts feature festive works. It’s definitely the place to be this Christmas.

Performing in a church at this time of year is pretty magical isn’t it?

St John’s Smith Square is such a magical concert hall. With the breathtaking Hall which features a huge canopy roof and magnificent chandelier, it’s really a hidden gem in the centre of London. 

What are your favourite things about the festive season and why?

The spirit of celebration and connection of communities is really special over the festive season. Here at St John’s Smith Square, we champion the sense of community that music imbues, and we aim to provide memorable music experiences. The transformative effect of music bringing people together is powerful, and this is especially heightened during the festive season. 

This time of year the venues tend to be a bit busier as well – do you find that the audience changes at all?

Tickets for our Christmas Festival concerts are selling fast! This creates such an exciting buzz, both for our audiences and musicians. 

What advice would you give for people performing around the festive season?

Sharing the joy of music with an audience is a truly unique experience. We would advise musicians to remember that the music they are performing creates lasting memories and lifts spirits – enjoy this creative outlet!

What is the best thing about a night at your venue?

People coming to St John’s Smith Square for the first time are always in awe of its beauty. The grandeur of the Hall is amazing, as is the quality of the music. We also have a café located in our crypt, which creates a warm and welcoming environment. 

If people want to find out more about you where can they follow you on social media?

St John’s Smith Square is on Facebook (StJohnsSmithSquare), Twitter (@StJohnsSmithSq), Instagram (@stjohnssmithsquare), and LinkedIn. 

And Finally in three words – Why should people join in with St John’s Christmas Festival?

Community, joy, celebration!