London Community Gospel Choir at Christmas, Royal Albert Hall

When it comes to Christmas concerts in London, the Royal Albert Hall leads the way in terms of variety. As the nights grow darker and the fairy lights begin to twinkle, the Victorian institution – which is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year – becomes a hub of festive cheer. Appearances from The Muppets and Father Christmas rub shoulders with grandiose renditions of Handel’s Messiah, sing-along carol concerts and star-led performances of The Nutcracker.

Among the highlights to catch in the 2021 Christmas season is a one-night-only performance from the London Community Gospel Choir, whose astonishing, soulful harmonies promise to bring down the house once more following sell-out concerts in 2018 and 2019.

Since the choir first grouped in 1982, they’ve performed with the crème de la crème of rock and pop, including Eric Clapton, Madonna, George Michael, Kylie Minogue and Blur. Their last appearance at the Royal Albert Hall, in December 2019, saw them perform new arrangements of gospel classics, with highlights including renditions of 'Joy to the World' and 'Oh Holy Night'.

The choir often collaborates with special guests for their Christmas concert and this year, they’ll be joined by operatic soprano Beibei Wang, R&B singer-songwriter Joel Culpepper and soul musician Jodie Abacus.

Conductor Paul Bateman leads the concert, with the Urban Soul Orchestra and London Community Gospel Choir offering musical accompaniment.

Further details of the line-up remain strictly under wraps, but expect a night full of festive cheer, awe-inspiring performances and perhaps even a chance to belt out the lyrics to a few of your favourite gospel classics.