The Princess of Wales's Yearly Christmas Musical Celebration Honours Unsung Heroes
The Princess of Wales is hosting her yearly Yuletide celebration at the historic Abbey, with a congregation comprising 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 traditional hymns, orchestral pieces, and literary excerpts from actors such as Chiwetel Ejiofor and Kate Winslet.
Focusing on Love and Generosity
The focus of the event, held in the glowing Westminster Abbey on Friday, is generosity and expressing affection towards one's neighbour.
In the audience are Jonathan and Anna Cordiner, whose young girl was lost to a brain cancer, and who established a foundation, a charity called Kayleigh's Wee Stars, to support families who have a child with a terminal illness.
"The time, care and compassion you give, often discreetly and without words, and without any thought of thanks or praise, make an extraordinary difference to the lives of others," Her Royal Highness stated in a letter ahead of the festive gathering.
A Steady Comeback
The princess has been making her own gradual return to the public eye following her health challenges and treatment, last month delivering her first public speech for two years, in which she reflected on recognising the "selfless, commonly overlooked efforts of carers".
Musical Talent and Access
Guests arriving at the Abbey will enjoy performances from talented youth performers aided by the Future Talent charity, set up with the help of the former royal to widen access to musical tuition.
Carys Wood, aged 18, who is a trumpet player and is from Wales, has been supported by the charity, with grants helping towards equipment, teaching, and travel fees - and she said it was "incredible" to be performing at tonight's service.
"Music can be very expensive," the musician remarked. She is now a student at the prestigious music academy, and added that "everyone should have the opportunity" to hone their artistic talents.
Generations Gathering
Eliza, Carys's sister who is 11, who plays the euphonium, will be present at the Abbey. "It's unbelievable that I get to perform here in front of so many notable figures," she said.
Within the audience will be representatives of different generations.
That will encompass young Saphia Turner, nine, winner of a youth community award, who sells artwork and carries out sponsored challenges to raise money for local food charities.
Festive Decor and Performances
The Abbey has been festooned with custom-created holiday decorations, with celebrity baker Mary Berry and floral designer Simon Lycett helping to make them.
Taking to the stage will be Katie Melua, the Westminster Abbey choristers and a nautical singing ensemble, 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 broadcast on television on December 24th.