Catherine's Annual Christmas Musical Celebration Honours Unsung Heroes
The Princess of Wales is hosting her customary festive musical service at the historic Abbey, with guests including members of the royal family, famous faces, and community champions who have helped their communities.
The 1,600 guests will listen to a mix of festive songs, musical performances, and spoken word pieces from performers including Chiwetel Ejiofor and Kate Winslet.
A Theme of Compassion and Love
The central message of the concert, held in the glowing Westminster Abbey on the afternoon, is compassion and demonstrating care for others.
Attending the event are Jonathan and Anna Cordiner, whose daughter died of a tumour, and who set up a charity, a charity called Kayleigh's Wee Stars, to support families who have a youngster facing a life-limiting condition.
"Your efforts, love, and understanding, often without fanfare or recognition, and without any expectation or recognition, make an remarkable change to the lives of others," wrote Catherine in a note prior to the carol service.
A Gradual Return
The Princess of Wales is continuing her own measured re-emergence to official duties subsequent to her illness and medical care, recently giving her initial major address in two years, in which she reflected on recognising the "quiet, often invisible work of caring".
Performance and Potential
Guests arriving at the Abbey will be entertained by budding artists backed by the Future Talent organisation, established in part by the former royal to widen access to musical tuition.
Trumpeter Carys Wood, 18, who plays the trumpet and is from southwest Wales, has been helped by the trust, with grants helping towards musical instruments, lessons and travel costs - and she said it was "incredible" to be performing at tonight's service.
"Musical pursuits are frequently pricey," she stated. She is now studying at the Royal Academy of Music, and added that "everyone should have the opportunity" to hone their artistic talents.
A Family Affair
Her younger sibling Eliza, aged 11, who plays the euphonium, will also be at the Abbey. "I never thought I'd be able to play there in front of so many notable figures," she said.
Attending the service will be people from various age groups.
That will feature nine-year-old Saphia Turner, honouree of a young hero award, who produces drawings and undertakes charity feats to generate funds for community pantries.
Festive Decor and Performances
The Abbey has been decorated with custom-created holiday decorations, with TV cook Mary Berry and florist Simon Lycett helping to make them.
Among the musical performers will be recording artist Katie Melua, choristers from Westminster Abbey and a Cornish sea shanty group, Fisherman's Friends, who said the chance to take part was "the icing on the cake for us."
The festive event titled 'Together at Christmas' will be broadcast on television on December 24th.
