The Mediaeval Baebes Bring The Ceremony to Leeds Minster and Newcastle Cathedral this Christmas
Be part of the Lighting of the Chalice and become immersed in pomp and pageantry
Concert goers are invited to join in and enhance the procession however they may enjoy! Bring a drum, a lantern, or dress up and frolic, as the illuminated procession sets the tone for a delightful evening of musical magic to come.
Celebrating the festive season, The Ceremony will bring a remarkable evening of joyous music, dance and theatre. With harmonious vocals accompanied by a truly unique collection of exotic and period instruments; carols, traditional folksongs and innovative settings of ancient romantic poetry will be revealed in beguiling choral music.
Traditionally this is a time for reflection and celebration, and the origins and folklore behind the Chalice, songs and lyrics will be cheekily uncovered in captivating storytelling. Further exalting the spirit of Christmas, the Mediaeval Baebes are delighted to announce that their new compositions will be presented during the concert too.
A medieval Christmas was a time of coming together, when elaborate processions and pantomimes were enjoyed by all. The Medieval Baebes’ Christmas concert continues to observe some of these historic customs and traditions, and they are seamlessly included in their performances, music and costumes.
A tradition that is still celebrated today is Wassailing, an orchard based ceremony that took place to ensure a plentiful apple harvest. Collecting alcohol in a large chalice that was frequently decorated with holly and ivy, partygoers would not leave until the chalice was empty. And, viewed as a symbol of connection and community, the chalice is often still used to create a sense of unity and shared experience regardless of era or faith. As a nod to this vessel of communal jubilation, The Ceremony of this year’s Mediaeval Baebes experience will commence with The Lighting of the Chalice.
The Mediaeval Baebes are one of the most successful female-led, early music and folk ensembles in Europe. Over the years, the Mediaeval Baebes have released 11 studio albums and won an Ivor Novella Award for their performance on the BBC serialisation The Virgin Queen. They have also received two Emmy nominations and a Royal Television Society award as the featured artist alongside composer Martin Phipps, for the TV theme tune of ITV’s hit show Victoria. In 2023 the Mediaeval Baebes’ collaboration with Orbital’s Ringa Ringa enjoyed number six status in the album charts. And, their unique siren call was invited to collaborate with TikTok lockdown sensation The Wellermen, as part of their Explorations remix album.
Come join the Mediaeval Baebes and be immersed in glorious merriment. Tickets are now available from mediaevalbaebes.com at a cost of £28.50 each and £13 for a child.
