THE historic Bradford Festival Choral Society is making its popular Christmas concert accessible to wider audiences.
Says choir chair Sara Daniel: "We get that real inclusivity isn't a one-size-fits-all deal. We've got wheelchair access and good parking, but we're also thinking about things like keeping it affordable, creating a quiet space for neurodiverse people, making children feel welcome, and connecting with different community groups."
The choir is performing at Bradford Grammar School with the award-winning Rothwell Temperance Band on Saturday, December 16 at 6pm - with a reduced ticket price of just £5 for under-30s, students and anyone on a low income (no proof required), and free admission for accompanied children. There will be colouring resources and puzzles to keep youngsters entertained while they wait for the music to start.
Various community groups are invited as guests, including the choir’s singing friends from Bradford Friendship Choir, a singing sanctuary for refugees and asylum-seekers. There will also be a quiet room for neurodiverse individuals, as a respite from the sensory stimulation of a bustling venue.
Musical Director Thomas Leech, at the helm of the 120-strong choir, says: "Concert-goers will enjoy a delightful mix of carols to join in with, festive classics, contemporary pieces, and Yorkshire favourite Hail Smiling Morn. The concert will end in line with the choir’s tradition with Handel’s uplifting Hallelujah chorus."
Tickets are available for purchase at ticketsource.co.uk/bfcs and on the door.
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