Musical Film Shines an Alternative Spotlight on Christmas

This December, Music Beyond Mainstream and Brighton Dome are presenting a short online film to highlight alternative Christmas stories that will resonate with anyone who may feel isolated or disconnected from the festive season.

Another Christmas explores real life narratives, accompanied by performances from leading musicians, singer-songwriters and performers in unusual locations. Using a kaleidoscopic approach, Artistic Director Laura Ducceschi, co-creator Patrick Eakin Young and film maker Samona Olanipekun cast real families, individuals and friends spending the festive period in ways that don’t necessarily conform to the traditional version of Christmas celebrations.

The stories are intertwined with reimagined versions of classic Christmas songs, together with new and original music, creating a familiar but contemporary take on seasonal soundscapes. Songwriter Duke Garwood and Mercury-nominated vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and producer ESKA perform a haunting interpretation of Silent Night set within the empty auditorium of Brighton Dome; while Irish musician, singer and actor Camille O’Sullivan delivers a spoken-word version of The Pogues’ Fairy Tale of New York. Further musical input comes from composer Douglas Dare, pianist Feargal Murray and cellist Oliver Coates.

Watch the trailer below:

ESKA commented:

“This is sort of billed as a non-Christmassy film but actually it's even more Christmassy as a result by trying to focus on the reality of it. Not everyone's sleeping in heavenly peace right now, but we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and we wish heavenly peace on people whatever they're going through.”

Laura Ducceschi added:

“Despite the initial idea being rooted in rebellion, the project is driven and united by love, compassion, and thoughtfulness, rather than a sentimental version of how Christmas is portrayed commercially. We wanted to shine a light on those who don’t fit into traditional boxes and give them a connection. We always wanted to finish it with the sense of a hug.”

Another Christmas is free to watch on Music Beyond Mainstream’s YouTube channel from 8pm, Thursday 16 December until Saturday 31 December.