Bach’s Christmas Oratorio
Polyphony and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment join forces under the direction of Stephen Layton to present Johann Sebastian Bach's retelling of the nativity story. The concert features Parts 1, 2, 3, and 6 of the Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248, with soloists Hilary Cronin, Helen Charlston, James Gilchrist, and Neal Davies.
What to Expect
Polyphony and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment perform Bach's nativity retelling.
Event Details
Duration
2 hours including interval.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Classical music and bach fans
Vibe
Festive and uplifting
Energy Level
Low
Budget
£££
Photo Friendly
Low
Weather Sensitivity
None
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Premium Seating (Rows A-E): £75; Price Band A (Rows F-O): £70; Price Band B (Rows P-W): £55; Price Band C (Side Stalls): £35; Gallery: £35. An 8% booking fee applies to tickets booked online and over the phone; prices on the booking page include the fee. There is no booking fee for tickets bought in person from the box office, including on the door before the event, subject to availability. Sinfonia Smith Square members have no booking fees during priority booking periods. – Get tickets
- Hours: 7.30pm.
- Parking: On-street pay-and-display and residents’ parking operate in the area; two bays in Smith Square are reserved for disabled badge holders. The hall is within the Congestion Charge Zone and Ultra Low Emission Zone.
- Accessibility: The Gallery has no lift access and is reached via a stone spiral staircase, making it unsuitable for those with limited mobility.
Tips & Advice
- Book online or by phone with the booking fee in mind; buying in person at the box office avoids that fee, subject to availability.
- Check your seat allocation before booking: Side Stalls and Gallery seats are unreserved and may have restricted views.
- Avoid Gallery seating if you have limited mobility or difficulty climbing stairs, as it is only reached by a stone spiral staircase.
- Allow two hours for the concert, including the interval.
- Consider public transport: several Underground stations are within walking distance, and the hall is inside the Congestion Charge Zone and Ultra Low Emission Zone.
Special Events & Promotions
- Sinfonia Smith Square members have no booking fees during priority booking periods.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the concert include?
The programme features Parts 1, 2, 3 and 6 of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248.
Who performs the oratorio?
Polyphony and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment perform under Stephen Layton, with soloists Hilary Cronin, Helen Charlston, James Gilchrist and Neal Davies.
How long should I allow for the concert?
The concert lasts about two hours, including the interval.
Are seats allocated?
Premium Seating and Price Bands A and B are allocated. Side Stalls and Gallery seating are unreserved and may have restricted views.
How can I get to Smith Square Hall without driving?
Westminster, St James’s Park and Pimlico Underground stations are within walking distance. Bus, rail, boat and cycle connections are also available nearby.
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