Words, Sounds and Stories for Christmas Eve

including Dylan Thomas reading his 'A Child's Christmas in Wales' & Robert Donat reading Christmas Poetry

Music & Carols performed by the Wally Stott Orchestra, the Westminster Abbey Choir & the Bach Choir

Talking Book & Music Audio CD

Original Historic Archive Recordings - Recorded 1952-62 - Please see images for full track listing.

"Starting off proceedings rather suitably with Wally Stott's jaunty and Christmassy arrangement of Prokofiev's Troika (from 1934's Lieutenant Kije) inspiring mental pictures of travelling through a blanket of white landscape. The heart of this collection is Dylan Thomas reading his short verse story A Child's Christmas in Wales. A much loved work in which Thomas affectionately, humorously and enchantingly, indulges in romanticised childhood nostalgia. Although at the same time finding there within the romance some universal truths which chime with our own Christmas memories and perceptions of the season. Thomas acutely weaves within the prose much of the traditions and imagery associated with the festive season, heavy snow, presents, parties, food, family, carol singing, the telling of ghost stories and the chaos that the rush up to Christmas often brings. Much loved actor Robert Donat made numerous radio broadcasts during his career. These included regular poetry readings with special broadcasts for the Christmas season. Sadly most of these broadcasts have been lost but thankfully here we do have a selection of his intimate and warmly recited amateur sound recordings, all made at his home during the 1950s. Christmas poems that were close to his heart. The vintage recording Carols For Christmas included here in its entirety between the readings was a very popular recording in its day. It quite possibly holds a childhood memory to some listeners, maybe as a backdrop to seasonal visits to your grandparents, or other older relatives, houses. The Bach Choir provides the celebratory and joyous side of Christmas with familiar favourite carols. Whereas the Westminster Abbey Choir recordings are more reflective and gentle. A suitable selection to end with as Christmas Eve night eases into the early hours of Christmas Day."

Playing Time: 77 minutes approx.

CD

NEW SEALED

Please see images for full track listing

UK Post & Packing is: £2.10

(includes eBay's new 10% shipping fee)

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CD will be sent out directly by the record label.

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