The Albion Christmas Band

Doors 6.40pm

Up The Downs Mummers 7pm

Albion Christmas Band 7.30pm

Full Price  £26

Under 25s  £13  

The Albion Christmas Band

The Albion Christmas Band returns to Folk in theBarn at the Gulbenkian this December for its 27th year of touring, continuing a cherished festive tradition that marks the true beginning of Christmas for audiences across the UK.

Described by The Guardian as “the perfect antidote to the corporate Christmas”, the show blends seasonal songs, carols,storytelling and stellar musicianship into an evening filled with warmth, humour and winter magic. At its heart is the extraordinary voice of Kellie While, whose breath-taking singing brings powerful expression and intimacy to every performance.

The current line-up evolved from The Albion Band, founded over 50 years ago by Ashley Hutchings MBE, one of the most influential forces in British folk music. Bob Dylan described Hutchings as “the single most important figure in English folk rock”, recognising a career that has left an indelible mark on British music.  Sadly, due to recent health issues, Ashley will not be touring with the Albion Christmas Band this year. However, his spirit, vision and musical legacy remain at the very heart of the band and the Christmas shows he helped create.

The Albion story is also intertwined with some ofthe most respected names in folk. Simon Nicol, long-time member of Fairport Convention and one of the defining guitarists and singers of the English folk revival, has been a key collaborator over the decades. Simon Care, renowned for his expressive melodeon playing and tireless work across folk and roots music,brings energy, sensitivity and virtuosity to the stage. Representing a newer generation, acclaimed singer-songwriter Blair Dunlop — award-winning guitarist and son of Ashley Hutchings — carries the Albion legacy forward with his own celebrated career, blending traditional influences with contemporary songwriting.

The Albion Christmas Band draws on this extraordinary musical heritage to create a heart-warming evening, filled with tradition, authenticity and joy.

We know audiences everywhere will join us in wishing Ashley well, and we look forward to celebrating the season together once again. This show sells out early every year – try not to miss it.

www.albionchristmas.co.uk

Up The Downs Mummers

The evening’s entertainment will open with The ‘UpThe Downs Mummers’ play performed on the Gulbenkian stage before the start ofthe concert at 19:00 (7pm). 

‍Doors to the theatre will be opening earlier than usual at 18:40 (twenty to seven) so those that want to can take their seats in good time.  This was greatly received last year and we wonder who will be the secret ‘star’ this time. Please bring any lose change as the Mummers will be rattling their buckets in the interval in aid of the Pilgrim’s Hospice.

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The performance lasts 20minutes so the Albion XB concert will start at 19:30 (7.30pm) as scheduled.