MANCHESTER will be launched into the festive season on Saturday 7 November by Coronation Street actress Catherine Tyldesley - this year’s official button-pusher at the annual Christmas Lights switch-on.
I think our Christmas lights should be turned on in August...
Thousands are anticipated to head down to Albert Square for the free family event which concludes with a spectacular ten-minute firework display over the Town Hall (and the giant Santa, of course).
True to tradition, the biggest Christmas party in the North West will be headlined by top musical acts including hit-making indie band Scouting For Girls and two time BRIT award-winner Lemar.
Guests will also be treated to a special video message from a 'Manchester mega-star' from forthcoming musical The Girls at the Lowry Theatre. There's whispers it may be the Gary Barlow. Here's hoping.
“Everyone knows that I think our Christmas lights should be turned on in August – I just can’t wait for the Christmas season to begin," says an excitable Councillor Pat Karney, Manchester’s Christmas spokesperson.
"But when the Giant Santa takes his place at Town Hall and the countdown to the fireworks begins, something magical happens to Manchester. Our show is the envy of the UK, but it’s only the start of more than six weeks of festive celebrations across the city.”
Coronation Street's Catherine Tyldesley will push the buttonCllr Rosa Battle, Manchester City Council’s executive member for culture and leisure, adds: “First and foremost this is a family show, so I hope to see as many families there as possible soaking up the atmosphere and welcome the Christmas season in Manchester. This year’s show is on the weekend for the first time, so this should help as many people as possible get to the event and enjoy the incredible entertainment.”
Before the city centre is illuminated with twinkling fairy lights, the show will see Tyldesley and fellow Corrie actress, Kym Marsh, perform a musical number before castmates from the world-famous soap help her push the button.
Alongside the big name headline acts, the stars of Manchester’s festive theatre season will be out in force, including cast members from the Opera House’s production of Cinderella and the Lowry's Sound of Music - with a special performance from theatre usher turned The Voice finalist, Lucy O'Bryne.
Entertainment highlights also include The Printworks Street Dance 2015 winners, The Aim Sky High Company, from Stretford, while the Manchester Show Choir will be bringing the festive feeling by performing a combination pop hits and musical theatre anthems with the force of over 80 voices.
This free show will take place from 7pm to 8pm at Albert Square, however attendees are recommended to arrive early.
A number of road closures will be in place on the evening - full details to be released.
Follow the action on Twitter: #MCRChristmas
