Peter and the Wolf concert set for Durham Cathedral

The cathedral will host a special double bill on December 6, featuring the BAFTA-winning animation The Snowman and a specially commissioned animated film Peter and the Wolf, both accompanied by a live orchestra.

The event, presented by Carrot Productions, will bring the stories to life through music and animation in the cathedral’s historic nave.

Durham Cathedral will host a festive concert on December 6 featuring live orchestral performances of The Snowman and a new animated film Peter and the Wolf, promising an evening of classic storytelling and music. (Image: Tom Bangbala)

Andrew Usher, chief officer for visitor experience and enterprise at Durham Cathedral, said: “It’s fantastic to welcome Carrot Productions back to Durham Cathedral for what promises to be a fun and festive day in the Nave.

“The combination of world-class musicians, stunning animation, and the voices of our own Young Cathedral choristers will create an unforgettable experience for families visiting from across the North East.”

The orchestra features professional musicians from the Hallé, BBC Philharmonic, Manchester Camerata, and BBC Concert Orchestra.

Durham Cathedral will host a festive concert on December 6 featuring live orchestral performances of The Snowman and a new animated film Peter and the Wolf, promising an evening of classic storytelling and music. (Image: Supplied)

Young cathedral choristers will perform Walking in the Air, offering them the rare opportunity to sing alongside professional musicians in one of the UK’s most iconic venues.

The concert will also include Carrot Productions’ specially commissioned animated film Peter and the Wolf, created in collaboration with Georgian animator Tsotne Rusishvili.

The classic Prokofiev score has been re-shaped for the occasion by Carrot’s long-time arranger and composer, Daniel Whibley.

Rachel Whibley, managing director of Carrot Productions, said: “We are thrilled to bring the new Peter and the Wolf animation and The Snowman to Durham Cathedral.

“The combination of live music, animation, and young local talent makes this a festive experience families will remember for years.”

At the close of each performance, audiences will be invited to join Classic FM’s Big Christmas Chorus, singing Walking in the Air alongside the orchestra to raise funds for Global’s Make Some Noise charity.

The event is part of Carrot Productions’ 2025 National Snowman Tour, which includes 31 performances in 12 locations from November 30 to December 23.

Tickets for the Durham Cathedral performance are on sale now via the Carrot Productions website.