Christmas with The Salvation Army at Roy Thomson Hall
Toronto’s Roy Thomson Hall was transformed from a concert venue to a grand cathedral on Saturday December 3rd, as a full house joined their voices in carols during “Christmas with The Salvation Army”. Special guest Marjory Watson traveled from the United Kingdom to perform a variety of festive songs, while Canadian treasure of the stage and screen set the mood for Christmas with a selection of dramatic readings and scripture.
The Peterborough Singers, under the baton of Sydney Birrell, commanded the audience’s attention with a selection of challenging and emotional choral items, and lent their voices to the 300-voice Festival Chorus. Ian Sadler supported the evening’s music on the grand organ which adorns the back wall of Roy Thomson Hall, adding to the rich sounds of The Canadian Staff Band.
Commissioner Brian Peddle addressed the audience with a short message challenging them “to make room this Christmas” for Jesus, referring to the innkeeper in the Nativity story.
Artistic Director Major Leonard Ballantine united the concert performers in a masterfully crafted program, enjoyed by thousands, including Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor, The Honourable David C. Onley, and his wife, Ruth Ann.
