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With weather conditions having not proven to be quite so adverse as forecast, the Advent team had all but set up in Falaise Square ready for the opening of the 10^th Advent doors, and with the performance due to take place in from of the Christmas Tree in the market place, but as the audience started to gather, the heavens opened and everyone was ushered through the Advent doors into the Town Hall. The ‘backstage area’ would now become the impromptu performance area.

Local estate agents Robinson Sherston were partners for the evening, and were on hand to serve the audience festive cider, and sweet festive treats. Fundraising on the night was for one of the Mayor’s supported charities, Thames Valley Animal Welfare, and a couple of their volunteers added to the spectacle and sense of occasion, arriving dressed as cats.

The audience crammed into a packed Town Hall, and with the large exuberant ensemble cast of the performer that night, it made for a big and joyous atmosphere.

Living Advent organiser Richard Rodway opened proceedings, and introduced Sue Nickson from the charity, before introducing the night’s performers, Rupert House Chamber Choir and Steph’s Dancing Divas and Dudes, featuring the Rupert House Dance Club.

The choir treated the audience to great versions of some festive classics, before the dancers took over with some fun and contemporary dance routines to move Christmas favourites.

Mayor Lorraine Hiller then presided over the raffle, prizes included a kind donation from Bagatelle Toy Shop.

We do not have to move far for Day 11, as the Living Advent is in any event due to return to the Town Hall again for the next Advent door, as the Town Hall becomes Plan A rather than B, with local jewellers Studio 35 kindly partnering as we raise funds on this occasion for the Henley Music School.