Heidi Range, singer and presenter best known for being the longest-serving member of the multi-platinum-selling British girl group, Sugababes, will perform for the first time since 2021, and Geri Halliwell-Horner will be reading at the event. Award-winning journalist and broadcaster, Charlene White, will host the evening.
Guests can expect a magical evening filled with festive cheer and heart-warming performances that promise to kick off the Christmas festivities.
Tickets start at £40, and all ticket holders will receive a glass of prosecco (or non-alcoholic alternative) and a festive treat before the spectacular show.
The cost of the ticket will help Childline answer the thousands of calls they’ll receive from children in crisis this festive season.
The evening will include an exclusive raffle and silent auction, all of which will help raise money for Childline. This year's prizes include a Christmas Fortnum and Mason hamper, among others.
Heidi Range – NSPCC Campaigner for Childhood, and singer, said: “The NSPCC is an incredible charity, and I’m thrilled to be performing in this year’s show for Childline. As a mum, it’s important to me to help ensure that Childline can be there for the children who need support this Christmas. This performance will hold a special meaning for me - I am truly inspired by Childline's vital work in assisting children, especially during Christmas.”
Samantha Morton, multi-award-winning British actress, will be a guest speaker while The Big Sing, a community choir group famous for being on Britain’s Got Talent in 2023, and Mica Paris, a singer, presenter, and actress known for her popular songs “My One Temptation” and “Where Is the Love,” will also perform. Journalist and broadcaster Pandora Sykes, along with actress Shaniqua Okwok, will conduct readings.
Geri Halliwell–Horner, NSPCC Ambassador for Childhood, said: “I am honoured to be reading at this year’s Merry Little Christmas Concert. Christmas can be a particularly vulnerable time for some children and I am grateful for the incredible and important work done by the NSPCC and Childline. Please consider supporting the NSPCC this Christmas, ensuring that Childline can be there to answer every question from every child in need.”
This is the 16th time the concert has taken place and the third time the festive spectacular has been held at Cadogan Hall in Chelsea.
Previous shows have welcomed Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh, Leona Lewis, Martin Freeman, Elaine Paige, Natalie Dormer, and Anton Du Beke.
Over the past two years, the event has raised a combined total of more than £125,000 for Childline.
Darren Worth, Service Head of Helplines for Childline, said: “Secure your tickets to a magical, star-studded evening with fabulous musical performances, traditional carols, and celebrity special guests. Join us for a festive show that truly makes a difference.
“While children are full of questions at Christmas, many in the UK have more serious questions, such as how to stay safe from abuse and cope with being alone.
“On average, a child will contact Childline by phone or web chat every 45 seconds during the festive season. That’s why Childline volunteers will be available every day and night, ready to listen to children who have no one else to turn to. They help children feel a little less alone.
“The price of your Merry Little Christmas ticket will help Childline be ready to answer every question this Christmas.”
Book your tickets now at nspcc.org.uk/mlc
Childline is free to contact on 0800 1111. Childline counsellors are here to take calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from children and young people under 19. Childline counsellors are also available to speak to online through 1-2-1 chat and via email.