Local theatre stars filled the stage of the Villa Marina for a special festive show held in the weekend leading up to Christmas,

More than 160 performers, aged from eight years old and upwards, took part in the Taylorian Christmas Concert, held in the Royal Hall on December 21, performing a range of seasonal tunes and songs from some of the most famous musicals and shows to a sold-out crowd.

The show featured singers and actors such as Lisa Kreisky, Matt James, Mandy Griffin, Simon Fletcher, Alex and Kathryn Toohey and Laura Piggott, amongst many others, and were joined by the Castle Rushen Big Band and a children’s choir.

The star factor was increased when the cast was joined by Broadway star Sam Barks, towards the end.

Vikki McCausland, from Taylorian, said that it was a great way to finish the show.

’Sam is a patron of Taylorian, and she is also very supportive of the arts and performance in the Isle of Man,’ said Vikki.

’She sat at the front and watched the show all the way through, and then joined us all on stage afterwards.

’Although she didn’t sing with us, she congratulated the cast on the show and she really made the night for some of the younger cast, who were thrilled to be stood along side her on stage.

’It was a lovely end to the a really good, fun night of music and theatre in front of a wonderful audience.’