Shropshire Star

Blackadder star Sir Tony Robinson gives nativity story a modern twist

It aims to address current issues while allowing the audience to enjoy their favourite Christmas carols.

Published
Sir Tony Robinson teamed up with renowned composer Professor Paul Mealor (Yui Mok/PA)

Sir Tony Robinson has helped rewrite the traditional nativity story to give it a modern twist.

The Three Ships was put together by the Time Team star and renowned composer Professor Paul Mealor.

Narrated by special guests, it aims to address current issues while allowing the audience to enjoy their favourite Christmas carols.

Sir Tony Robinson and renowned composer Professor Paul Mealor (University of Aberdeen )
Sir Tony Robinson and Professor Paul Mealor (University of Aberdeen)

Sir Tony said: “It all came out of just one conversation. I was blown away by Paul’s interpretation of In The Bleak Midwinter at last year’s concert, and afterwards we were chatting about how there are few pieces that challenge us to engage in the drama of the nativity.

Sir Tony Robinson and renowned composer Professor Paul Mealor (University of Aberdeen )
Sir Tony and Prof Mealor collaborated on the piece (University of Aberdeen)

The annual event raises funding for research at the new NHS Anchor Centre, which will be a centre of excellence for treating people with cancer and blood disorders.

This reworked nativity’s debut performance will be held at St Machar’s Cathedral in Aberdeen, but it is hoped the concert will be performed by other groups in years to come.

Prof Mealor said: “I am confident that we’ve got this right and I think people are going to go away feeling good about it. There’s some new music in there, but a lot of old favourites.

Sir Tony Robinson and renowned composer Professor Paul Mealor (University of Aberdeen )
The reworked nativity will debut in Aberdeen (University of Aberdeen)

The fourth annual Celebration of Carols will take place at St Machar’s Cathedral on December 12 and at St Marylebone Parish Church in London on December 21.

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