Whether you’re there in person or watching from home, one of Australia’s biggest Christmas traditions is Carols in the Domain.
Featuring some of the country’s best performers – and of course Santa – it’s a night where everyone comes together to celebrate the season.
And this year, the 40th anniversary of the event and with crowds back to normal after years of Covid restrictions, Carols presenters Natalie Barr and David Koch are looking forward to a good old-fashioned singalong once more.
”Kochie and I can’t wait, and I think Australia can’t wait too,” says Nat, 54, who will present the big night alongside her Sunrise co-host David Koch.
”Last year we needed Carols to brighten up our year after Covid, this year we’re all back to normal, but everyone I talk to says they’ve been shocked at the frantic pace of life.
”I think we all need a break and Carols will signal that it’s really Christmas and we can join with our families and friends and relax, reflect and be thankful.”
”I’m absolutely busting for it,” Kochie, 66, adds.
”’I’ve spent the last 2 years in isolation on Christmas Day, so we are set for a massive family get together.
”’The Perth side of the family are back home, as is my youngest daughter from London with her new German husband and his parents, who have never been to Australia before so there’s literally no room at the Koch Inn this Christmas … and we love it.”
Joining the pair this year will be performers including Todd McKenney, Rhonda Burchmore, The Wiggles, Mark Vincent, Lachie Gill, Paulini and more, with special guest via satellite, Grammy-winning singer Andrea Bocelli performing a duet with his daughter Virginia.
And there will, Nat promises, be some other surprises on the night.
”I can’t tell you what they are because then they wouldn’t be surprises,” Nat says.
”But I just think the whole night is beautiful (with) gorgeous gowns, incredible singing, some of Australia’s most powerful voices combined with an amazing orchestra and choir.
”I really do love being part of it and I know Australia will love what we’ve got planned for this year.”
And will we finally get to Nat and Kochie sing?
Nat’s not keen, but Kochie thinks it might be time.
”I belt out Holy City when Mark Vincent is singing it and I reckon I’ve nailed it after so many years,” he jokes.
”I reckon I sound pretty good, Nat disagrees, so I think it’s time for Australia to decide.”
Carols in the Domain airs on Saturday December 17th on Channel Seven.
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