The Magical Music of Christmas Ray Dance & Judith Sharp Arts Centre, Swindon

The menu format of the programme, listing Appetisers, Main Course, Dessert, with a note of ingredients (the 15 performers) and condiments (the five musicians) was a clue to the rich variety of The Magical Music of Christmas - a show that was a veritable feast.

Ray Dance and Judith Sharp are renowned for their personal talents, enthusiasm and ability to attract fine fellow-performers in raising funds for charitable causes - in this case, Threshold, which helps homeless people locally. The festive miscellany was another triumph.

A medley of carols, with cast members in warm outdoor clothing, opened this wonderful show, rightly acclaimed by packed audiences at the Arts Centre in Old Town, Swindon. As well as well-established artistes, the cast included some very young performers, whose confidence and flair augurs future success.

Well-loved seasonal songs, less well-known numbers, classics, a brilliant violinist, superb dancers, comedy, costume and atmospheric sets all combined in a wonderful pre-Christmas treat.

Congratulations all round

Stella Taylor