Countdown to Christmas 2026 - Gala Evening Show

'Countdown to Christmas' is back......and this year we're turning up the Christmas fun dial up to '11' with an all new festive show!Now in it's ninth festive season of touring shows, and returning for its sixth consecutive annual visit to the magical setting of Chipping Sodbury's historic Town Hall's theatre, this heartwarming family show is sure to fill everyone who sees it with genuine festive cheer and goodwill.The show really has become a festive institution in its own right, with over 600 hundred performances due to take place this year alone, and is set to entertain around 20,000 audience members across the country.

This year's 'Gala Night' show is set be bigger, bolder, and bursting with even more festive magic than ever before!Now in it's ninth festive season of touring shows, and returning for its sixth consecutive annual visit to the magical setting of Chipping Sodbury Town Hall's historic theatre, the stage is set for two heartwarming shows that will be sure to fill everyone who sees them with genuine festive cheer and goodwill.Join our fabulous cast for an exhilarating live musical countdown that celebrates the greatest Christmas songs, films, and characters of all time.

Think of it as your favourite "Now That's What I Call Christmas" album, mixed in with your favourite festive movie soundtracks, all topped off with a generous sprinkling of 'Mini Concerts' Christmas magic, and you'll be on the right track.

It's really will be a whole lot of festive fun!We've been sworn to secrecy, but what we can tell you is that there may be visitors from the 'Frozen' world of Arendelle, there's a story line that gives more than a 'generous' nod to the timeless tale of Scrooge, and of course there will be all your favourite Christmas hits from the first snowflake to final curtain.

There really is something for everyone, whatever your age, in this fabulously festive show!...but be prepared! This is show is definitely NOT a "sit still and watch" kind of show! Singing along is actively encouraged, and dancing in the aisles is absolutely applauded.

Even the biggest Christmas Grinch won't stand of a chance of remaining grumpy when up against our mischievous Christmas Elves this year!'Countdown to Christmas' really is a show where whole family is welcome, from 'Tiny Tim' to Grandpa, age is no barrier to our talented performers Christmas spirit.

So warm up those vocal cords, shine up your dancing shoes, and be ready to join our famous 'Countdown to Christmas' conga line, all before Santa makes his spectacular entrance for the show's grand finale.This year's show will be hosted and narrated by talented local favourite, Chipping Sodbury's very own Jane McDonald, Cruise Director Sophie Gideon, who's back on dry land to spread her very special brand of Christmas cheer and kick-start the Christmas celebrations.But there's one VERY important question...Which festive favourite will take its place behind that coveted final advent calendar window? Will 'Slade' out shine 'Wizard' in this magical countdown, or will 'Band Aid' relegate 'Chris de Burgh' to the naughty list when it comes to Santa's final placings? There's only one way to find out! Gather your friends and family, and join us to sing, dance, laugh, and immerse yourself in the 'Countdown to Christmas' spirit!...And there's more!Every year the funds raised through our 'Countdown to Christmas' gala shows help the Mini Concerts team deliver completely FREE and fully accessible festive matinee performances of the show to the residents and staff of Care Homes, Nursing Homes, and Community Groups supporting those living with dementia across South Gloucestershire and the surrounding areas.In 2025, the Chipping Sodbury Matinee show was performed to almost 200 wonderful audience members, who enjoyed a live festive theatre experience completely free of charge.

So, when you join the 'Countdown to Christmas' gala night party, you'll not giving yourself a festively fun night out, you will have spread a little extra Christmas joy that afternoon to a very deserving audience!Two fantastic shows, one unforgettable Christmas party, and a little extra festive magic for those who deserve it.We can't wait to celebrate with you!So book now, and let your countdown truly begin!