Monaco's Annual Christmas Season Kickoff Elevated by Handel's Messiah Performance

The annual Christmas season kickoff event at Monaco's Anglican Church drew an exceptionally large crowd this year, eagerly gathering to witness a stirring rendition of Handel's Messiah on Saturday, November 23. The church reached its full capacity under the skilled direction of conductor Errol Girdlestone, with attendees adjusting in pews to accommodate one another for the much-anticipated musical celebration.

The performance featured a returning cast of talented soloists including soprano Elenor Bowers-Jolley, alto Clint Van der Linde, tenor Andrew Gavin, and Monaco's own bass Thonas Dear. Their individual journeys and collective talent, under Girdlestone's selection, resonated throughout the venue, offering a unique interpretation of the classic oratorio, which has been enchanting audiences since its premiere in 1742 in Dublin.

The rendition of "For unto us a child is born" was particularly powerful, leaving a profound impact on the audience. The event, which also subtly addressed themes of peace and conflict as reflected in Handel's work, concluded with a fervent encore of the Hallelujah Chorus, leaving attendees moved and appreciative of the night's artistic and spiritual offerings.