The annual “Follow the Stars” Christmas Carol Concert in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support has been an unmissable highlight of Oxford’s festive calendar for the past 28 years. This much-loved event will once again take place in the magnificent setting of Christ Church Cathedral at 8pm on Friday 5th December, 2025.
More than just a concert, Follow the Stars is a joyful celebration of music, community, and compassion. Audiences can expect an evening of glorious choral music and festive carols performed by some of the country’s finest musicians and singers, interwoven with uplifting and thought-provoking readings from our distinguished guests.
This year we are excited that Angela Rippon CBE will be joining us as one of our esteemed celebrity readers; a familiar face and voice in British broadcasting for nearly 60 years. She appeared in the 2023 series Strictly Come Dancing winning the admiration of viewers with her high kicks! This year Angela launched her Let’s Dance campaign, encouraging the public to get dancing and enjoy its physical and mental benefits.
A huge welcome back to Sally Phillips who captivated the congregation with her engaging readings a couple of years ago. Sally is an English actor, comedian, producer and director. She is best known for her work in ITV sitcoms such as Jam & Jerusalem and the ground-breaking female-led sketch show, Smack the Pony, that Sally developed and co-wrote.
Additionally, we are thrilled to welcome Sophie Bevan MBE, one of the leading lyric sopranos of her generation. A frequent performer at the Royal Opera House and Garsington, Sophie brings her exquisite voice and artistry to this year’s concert. Having herself been treated for cancer, her participation holds special significance in support of Macmillan’s vital work.
We are also delighted that Abigail Thaw, above, acclaimed actor and Endeavour fans’ favourite, will be joining the evening’s lineup of readers.
The music will be performed by Oxford’s renowned Oxford Bach Soloists, conducted by Stephen Grahl, Director of Music at Trinity College, Cambridge. Together, they will fill the Cathedral with soaring harmonies and festive spirit, creating an unforgettable start to the Christmas season.
Almost 3.5 million people are currently living with cancer in the UK, and Macmillan Cancer Support is there for them every step of the way.
As His Majesty King Charles has said, “What strikes us repeatedly is the profound impact of human connection – whether in the careful explanation from a specialist nurse, the handheld by a hospice volunteer, or the shared experience in a support group. These moments of kinship create what I might call a ‘community of care’, one that sustains patients through the most difficult of times.”
As the UK’s leading cancer support charity, Macmillan’s vital work is only possible through the generosity of the public.
Book your tickets now!
At www.ticketsoxford.com or in person at The Oxford Playhouse.
The concert will also be live-streamed and free to view online via the JustGiving fundraising page: justgiving.com/fundraising/follow-the-stars.
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Feeling charitable?
Let us know what your doing to support Oxford charities this Christmas. We’d love to hear about it.
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