Catherine's Yearly Yuletide Carol Concert Spotlights Unsung Heroes
Her Royal Highness has organised her yearly festive musical service at the historic Abbey, with guests including members of the royal family, famous faces, and community champions who have made a difference in their neighbourhoods.
The large audience will listen to a blend of carols, music and readings from actors such as Chiwetel Ejiofor and Kate Winslet.
Focusing on Kindness and Compassion
The central message of the event, held in the candle-lit Abbey on Friday, is kindness and showing love to others.
Attending the event are Anna and Jonathan Cordiner, whose child passed away from a tumour, and who founded an organisation, a charity called Kayleigh's Wee Stars, to support families who have a youngster facing a life-limiting condition.
"The time, care and compassion you give, often quietly and unspoken, and without any hope for reward or acknowledgement, make an remarkable change to the circumstances of individuals," the Princess expressed in a message before the carol service.
A Gradual Return
The Princess of Wales is continuing her own steady comeback to public life after her cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy, recently giving her first public speech for two years, in which she reflected on recognising the "selfless, commonly overlooked efforts of carers".
Musical Talent and Access
Attendees entering the Abbey can listen to young musicians aided by the Future Talent charity, co-founded by the Duchess of Kent to widen access to music lessons.
Trumpeter Carys Wood, 18, who performs on the trumpet and is from southwest Wales, has been helped by the charity, with funding assisting with equipment, teaching, and travel fees - and she said it was "awesome" to be taking part in the concert.
"Musical pursuits are frequently pricey," Carys said. She is now a student at the renowned conservatoire, and added that "all people deserve the chance" to develop their musical skills.
A Sisterly Duo
Her younger sibling Eliza, aged 11, who is a euphonium player, will likewise attend the Abbey. "I never imagined I would perform in front of so many notable figures," she said.
Attending the service will be individuals spanning multiple eras.
That will include young Saphia Turner, nine, winner of a young hero award, who sells artwork and carries out sponsored challenges to collect donations for food banks.
Seasonal Ambiance and Entertainment
The Abbey has been festooned with specially made wreaths, with TV cook Mary Berry and florist Simon Lycett contributing to their design.
Taking to the stage will be recording artist Katie Melua, the Abbey's own choir and a maritime folk band from Cornwall, the group Fisherman's Friends, who said the invitation to sing was "the icing on the cake for us."
The festive event titled 'Together at Christmas' will be aired by ITV1 on Christmas Eve.
