The Glasshouse

This Christmas, The Glasshouse International Centre for Music will once again come alive with sparkle, song and seasonal cheer, welcoming audiences for a programme packed with festive favourites, star performances and heartwarming traditions.

All ages and tastes are catered for, with performances spanning classical, jazz, folk, pop, musicals and more. Family classics such as The Snowman and Home Alone in Concert return to high demand, local favourites will light up the stage with seasonal spirit, and this winter, Royal Northern Sinfonia will bring the festive beauty of their music right to people’s doorsteps – meaning even more audiences can experience the magic of music at Christmas.

Brass and Chorus of Royal Northern Sinfonia present their Winter Tour, with performances in Newcastle on Wednesday 26 November, Hexham on Friday 28 November, and Heaton on Saturday 29 November. Brass and percussion players of Royal Northern Sinfonia will join forces with the Chorus and their director, Tim Burke, for a musical sleigh ride through five centuries of festive music. The programme will journey from Gaudete to The Christmas Song, weaving through carols and classical favourites like Troika and The Nutcracker.

Between 27 November and 4 December, it’s the orchestra’s turn to take centre stage. In Alnwick, Musselburgh, Sunderland, Berwick, Newcastle and Carlisle, Royal Northern Sinfonia will bring the Baroque world to life with graceful violin lines from Leclair and Corelli, rich festive textures in Torelli and Locatelli’s Christmas Concertos, and the playful precision of Telemann and Handel. Purcell’s music from The Fairy Queen runs through the programme like a thread, while Rameau sweeps from courtly dances to full-blown storms.

At Kendal, Cullercoats, Redcar, Bishop Auckland, Hartlepool and Hexham, audiences will soak up beauty and a little Baroque swagger. These performances will travel from Dowland’s Lachrimae Antiquae to Lully’s March for the Turkish Ceremony, with stirring moments from Handel, vivid colour from Vivaldi, and the intimate textures of Marais.

Music fans can get into the festive spirit with The Wandering Hearts, starting the countdown to Christmas with It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas. On Saturday 29 November, the acclaimed folk-Americana group brings warmth, harmony and holiday cheer to the hall.

On Wednesday 3 December, the stars of The Rat Pack – Swingin’ at the Sands will bring a cracking party to Gateshead following a sold-out show at the West Ends’ Adelphi Theatre last December. The show prides itself on authenticity, camaraderie and the ability to give everyone a swingin’ time. Audiences can enjoy the most-loved staples, including New York, New York and My Way, as well as sing-alongs to classics such as Winter Wonderland and White Christmas.

The charismatic Rob Brydon is taking his celebrated Christmas show around the country after a sell-out West End performance last year. On Thursday 4 December, Rob, accompanied by a fabulous eight-piece band, will usher in the festive season in his own inimitable style with songs, stories and even an impression or two.

Home Alone returns on 6 and 7 December with Royal Northern Sinfonia playing the music to this festive classic on the big screen. The Glasshouse choir, Voices of the River’s Edge, completes the wonder by singing the main theme Somewhere in My Memory. Heartwarming family fun.

On Monday 8 December, The Albion Christmas Band, Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Kellie While (Albion Band), Simon Care (Edward II), Blair Dunlop (Albion Band) and Ashley Hutchings MBE, share a journey through Britain’s Christmas customs, with carols, spoken word and highlights from 25 years of sell-out shows and albums. This ‘best of Albion Xmas’ set is part of a tour The Telegraph has listed among its ‘top ten unmissable Christmas shows.’

On Tuesday 9 December, Caribou brings his signature blend of electronic grooves, creating a night of immersive sound and atmosphere. Joined by his four-piece band, fans of electronica can enjoy driving percussion and genre-defying style, with dancefloor favourites like Can’t Do Without You and Odessa illuminating the set.

Christmas Gaiety – A Queer Holiday Extravaganza on Wednesday 10 December unites Royal Northern Sinfonia, conductor Edwin Outwater and Drag superstar Peaches Christ (jetting in from San Fran) and Baga Chipz for the ultimate party. They’re joined by baritone of dreams, Le Gateau Chocolat, West End icon Kerry Ellis, opera singer Rebecca Bottone, local legend and Drag Idol winner, Gladys Duffy, and Drag Race UK winner Ginger Johnson to perform festive favourites.

On Friday 12 December, the genuine and passionate Smoove & Turrell will bring their North Eastern Northern Soul with The Singles Tour. They’ll be performing tracks from their extensive back catalogue spanning eight albums.

On Sunday 14 December, Kristian Bezuidenhout joins Royal Northern Sinfonia and the Chorus of Royal Northern Sinfonia for a performance of Handel’s Messiah. From anger to elation, sorrow to joy, the piece is rich with dramatic and powerful melodies, brought to life by orchestra, chorus, and vocal soloists. A beautiful way to celebrate the festive season.

On Saturday 13 December, pianist Paul Edis returns with A Jazzy Christmas – another much-loved annual tradition. Joined by the velvet-voiced Jo Harrop and standout names from the UK jazz scene, the show brings a touch of swing to the festive season. Great for those who like their Christmas gatherings groovy.

Folk favourite Kate Rusby returns with her Christmas tour, blending traditional carols and festive originals in a show full of wit and Yorkshire charm. On Saturday 13 December, Christmas Is Merry brings the famous ‘brass boys’ and twinkling lights for a heartwarming celebration and singalong that’s become a cherished holiday tradition in the North East.

Martin Stephenson presents Frank & Jim – North East Legends on Sunday 14 December. Entertainer Martin Stephenson has long wanted to pay tribute to two veteran heroes of the North East, Franky Gibbon and Jim Hornsby. Finally, he’s bringing them to The Glasshouse, which will provide a brilliant setting for a night’s entertainment with three legends.

On Monday 15 December, Cara Dillon, hailed as one of the finest voices in Irish folk, performs Upon A Winter’s Night – a spellbinding show that offers a moment of calm amid the festive rush. Blending ancient carols, modern songs and Celtic rhythms, she and her exceptional band explore the mystery and quiet beauty of Christmas.

Due to popular demand, Matt Baker returns to present Christmas at The Glasshouse on Wednesday 17 December. Royal Northern Sinfonia and Chorus of Royal Northern Sinfonia will fill the hall with festive cheer, led by conductor Ellie Slorach. There’ll be a pick-and-mix of seasonal favourites, from Hark! The Herald Angels Sing to Sleigh Ride.

On Thursday 18 December, Sinfonia of London and conductor John Wilson bring their showstopping elegance from London to Gateshead with A Christmas Songbook. Featuring star vocalist Matt Ford and a programme of festive favourites, this is Christmas with a touch of Hollywood sparkle – lush orchestrations and timeless tunes.

Also on 18 December, Saxophonist Jess Gillam returns with her dynamic ensemble for a colourful Christmas concert. The show features brilliant arrangements, unexpected twists and a mix of classical and contemporary sounds, all delivered with Jess’s trademark flair.

On Friday 19 December, Royal Northern Sinfonia and conductor Stephen Bell take to the stage for a night of glitz and glamour. Christmas at the Musicals features special guests from the West End performing hits from beloved shows and seasonal classics. It’s sequins, showstoppers and sparkle with a full symphonic sound.

Back for another year, singer-songwriter Jez Lowe shares Winter Wanderings – a festive gig rooted in the song traditions of the North East. On Sunday 21 December, Jez brings his toe-tapping folk quartet The Bad Pennies for a night of good-humoured seasonal music and storytelling. As the artist who’s performed at The Glasshouse more than anyone else, he’s made this show a local highlight.

From Monday 22 to Wednesday 24 December, Royal Northern Sinfonia and conductor Ellie Slorach present The Snowman in Concert. Starting with We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, the screening of The Snowman features a live orchestral soundtrack and a young North East singer performing Walking in the Air. The relaxed performance on 22 December at 2pm includes a British Sign Language interpreter.

Royal Northern Sinfonia and conductor Timothy Redmond will bring Bond to Gateshead on Monday 30 December. At 007 in Concert, glamorous West End stars Louise Dearman and Oliver Tompsett will perform iconic anthems from six decades of Bond films, including Skyfall, Goldfinger, and The World is Not Enough.

Audiences can welcome the New Year in style as Royal Northern Sinfonia delivers with its much-loved Viennese New Year’s Day concert, conducted by Naomi Woo. On Wednesday 1 January, enjoy an afternoon of joyful waltzes and lively polkas with soprano Rebecca Bottone. It’s a sparkling musical tradition to start 2025.

Wendy Smith, Creative Director at The Glasshouse, said,

“This Christmas, The Glasshouse opens its doors to a season of festive favourites. With classical, jazz, folk, pop and musicals in the mix, the programme shimmers with highlights – from the warmth of Kate Rusby and magical screenings of Home Alone in Concert to local seasonal showcases and celebrations with our own Royal Northern Sinfonia. Whether it’s a family tradition or a night out with friends, we can’t wait to share the joy of the season with you.”

Tickets are on sale now via https://theglasshouseicm.org/whats-on/

/ENDS

For more information, please contact Orla Noble, Premier Comms: orla.noble@premiercomms.com

Beverley Knight: beverley.knight@theglasshouseicm.org 0191 443 4583

IMAGES here

LISTINGS

Brass and Chorus of Royal Northern Sinfonia – Winter Tour – Wednesday 26 November 2025 | Newcastle Cathedral, St Nicholas Square, Newcastle upon Tyne

Brass and Chorus of Royal Northern Sinfonia – Winter Tour – Friday 28 November 2025 | Hexham Abbey, Hexham

Brass and Chorus of Royal Northern Sinfonia – Winter Tour – Saturday 29 November 2025 | St Gabriel’s Church, Heaton

The Amy Winehouse Band – Friday 28 November 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Riverside Ragas: Sanskrati Wahane and Harkiret Singh Bahra – Friday 28 November 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

The ELO Show, A Tribute to Jeff Lynne & ELO – Sunday 30 November 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

The Wandering Hearts – It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas – Saturday 29 November 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

Royal Northern Sinfonia – Baroque Christmas Tour – Thursday 27 November to Thursday 4th December 2025 | Alnwick, Musselburgh, Sunderland, Berwick, Newcastle, Carlisle

The Rat Pack – A Swingin’ Christmas At The Sands – Wednesday 3 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Rob Brydon and His Fabulous Band: A Festive Night Of Songs & Laughter – Thursday 4 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Classic Clapton: 40th Anniversary Concert – Friday 5 December 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

Livewire the AC/DC show 2025 – Saturday 6 December 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

Home Alone in Concert – Saturday 6 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Home Alone in Concert – Sunday 7 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

The Albion Christmas Band – Monday 8 December 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

Caribou – Tuesday 9 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

A Christmas Gaiety – A Queer Holiday Extravaganza – Wednesday 10 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Luther Live and Velvet Voices – Thursday 11 December | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Ruth Lyon – Thursday 11 December | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

Tony Hadley, The Christmas Big Band Tour 2025 – Friday 12 December | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Smoove & Turrell – The Singles Tour – Friday 12 December 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

A Jazzy Christmas – Paul Edis and Friends – Saturday 13 December 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

Kate Rusby – Christmas is Merry – Saturday 13 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Handel’s Messiah – Sunday 14 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Martin Stephenson presents Frank & Jim – North East Legends – Sunday 14 December 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

Cara Dillon – Upon A Winter’s Night – Monday 15 December 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

Christmas at The Glasshouse – Wednesday 17 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Jess Gillam Ensemble – Thursday 18 December 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

Sinfonia of London – A Christmas Songbook – Thursday 18 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Christmas at the Musicals – Friday 19 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

The Sweet – Friday 19 December 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

Jez Lowe’s Winter Wanderings – Sunday 21 December 2025 | Sage Two, The Glasshouse

The Snowman in Concert – Monday 22 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

The Snowman in Concert – Tuesday 23 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

The Snowman in Concert – Wednesday 24 December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Taylormania – Taylor Swift Eras Tribute Concert – Saturday 27 December | Sage One, The Glasshouse

007 in Concert – Tuesday 30th December 2025 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

Viennese New Year’s Day Concert – Wednesday 1st January 2026 | Sage One, The Glasshouse

About Royal Northern Sinfonia

Internationally renowned, calling Gateshead home.

37 musicians at the top of their game. Electrifying music, old and new. All the talent, determination and creativity of the North East on a worldwide stage. From their home at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, Royal Northern Sinfonia share the joy and wonder of orchestral music with thousands of people across the North of England – and beyond – every year.

From symphonies to string quartets, film soundtracks to choral masses, and original performances with awesome artists from Sheku Kanneh-Mason to Self Esteem, the orchestra’s members have got one of the most varied jobs there is. They’re always looking for fresh new sounds from up-and-coming composers, inviting local communities to share a stage, and doing everything they can to inspire and prepare the musicians of tomorrow to one day take their place.

They’re also working hard to smash the barriers that can stop brilliant people getting into classical music. They’ve teamed up with national partners to support women conductors to develop their careers, to help global majority musicians get vital experience in the orchestra world, and to celebrate disabled and non-disabled musicians breaking new ground together in RNS Moves. And they bring new musical opportunities to the region, headlining the first-ever BBC Proms weekend outside London.

Because they whole-heartedly believe orchestral music is for anyone – big cities and tiny villages, brand-new babies and life-long listeners, die-hard fans and curious minds – they travel far and wide to make sure there’s top-notch classical music on offer for anyone ready to say, “I’ll give that a go”. You’ll find them in churches, castles, and community venues across the North, as well as spearheading concert seasons in Carlisle, Kendal, Middlesbrough, and Sunderland.

With 65 years of success to build on, they’ve signed a dynamic young artistic leadership – Music Director Dinis Sousa, Artistic Partner Maria Włoszczowska, Principal Guest Conductor Nil Venditti and Associate Conductor Ellie Slorach – to lead the way into a bold, bright future. They’re joined by Conductor Laureate Thomas Zehetmair.

Wherever the orchestra play and whoever they share a stage with, every performance is a chance to see, hear and feel the music.

About The Glasshouse International Centre for Music

The Glasshouse International Centre for Music is a home for live music lovers.

It’s a place where you can hear rock legends or pop icons on the same night as folk trios or string quartets. Where new musicians are nurtured and showcased on the same stages as platinum-selling performers. And where youth choirs and tambourine-shaking toddlers practise in the same spaces as its acclaimed orchestra, Royal Northern Sinfonia.

Because as an international centre for music they’re focused on creating and celebrating outstanding music – whether that’s unearthing or growing talent from the region or bringing the world’s best artists to their stages. And as a charity they’re focused on making sure all of that is available to anyone – no matter where you’re from, how old you are, how much money you have, or what challenges you face.

Which is why every year more than 2 million people are able to join for top-notch gigs, concerts, and classes – in their venue at Gateshead Quays, out in communities across the North East, and through livestreamed performances and digital lessons.

Whether you’re making it up or taking it in, you’ll find music lives and grows there.
More about The Glasshouse International Centre for Music

• Since opening in 2004, The Glasshouse has hosted over 10,000 performances, welcoming nearly 5 million audience members. It would take more than 27 years to see every show if you attended one every day.
• Over two decades, the charity has delivered around 230,000 music lessons, reaching young people and adults 2.7 million times across its education programmes.
• As its resident orchestra, Royal Northern Sinfonia has toured globally, performing across four continents and livestreaming to audiences across five.
• The Glasshouse has supported the careers of thousands of artists like Ward Thomas who have worked their way from free stages to headline shows in its main hall, achieving national and global recognition.
• Since 2004, The Glasshouse has welcomed over 400,000 delegates for conferences and events, hosting organisations such as Greggs, NHS, and British Engines.
• Over the past two decades, The Glasshouse has generated £500 million in economic impact for the North East.
• The iconic building, designed by Foster + Partners, has 630 panes of glass and stands 40 metres tall. In its opening year, it was exhibited at the Venice Biennale and won the RIBA Inclusive Design Award in 2005.
• Celebrating 20 years – In December 2024, The Glasshouse marked its 20th birthday. Over the next year, the charity will reflect on two decades of achievements and look ahead to its third decade, with major initiatives like the Music Academy and Music Pass for newborns, making music accessible to all.