Santa ready to rock Monash Carols once again
Published on 28 November 2024
Monash Carols by Candlelight 2024
Last year, we were lucky enough to score the biggest interview of the festive season.
And we must have done OK, because the big fellow with the white flowing beard, red suit and massive black leather boots, has invited us back to Christmas HQ in Lapland for a quick catch-up on the eve of his busiest time of the year.
I sit across a big oak desk, scattered with small ornaments and toys undergoing a last quality control check from the boss. There’s a plate of crumbs, which had once been mince pies, and a large mug of hot chocolate and marshmallows steaming at arm’s length.
Santa Claus smiles, motions for me to sit in the seat across the desk and slowly opens a heavy, dusty, leather-bound book.
He runs his eyes carefully down the page.
SANTA (murmuring quietly): Hmmmm let me see, … bedroom a bit messy, leaves a few coffee mug rings on his desk at work …
He slams the book shut with a beaming smile.
SANTA: All clear, you’ve been a good boy this year. Nothing to worry about.
MONASH (hefty sigh of relief) Thanks for that, it’s great to talk to you again at what must be an incredibly busy time of year. We appreciate your time.
SANTA: That’s fine, don’t mention it. With all the media spots and guest appearances I do, and the toy preparation meetings, it’s pretty much a 12-month job. Planning for the big Christmas Eve flight is right on track. The Elves are doing a brilliant job getting the toys and gifts together; Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen are doing something called “Cross Fit” to make sure they are in peak condition and I’ve never seen Rudolph’s red nose glowing so brightly – although that could have something to do with the bout of hay fever he suffered recently.
MONASH: Once again, all of us down in the City of Monash are incredibly excited about your appearance at our Monash Carols by Candlelight at Jells Park in Wheelers Hill, 5.30pm - 9.15pm, on Saturday 7 December.
SANTA: I absolutely love this event. Without doubt it’s one of my favourite appearances and it’s always at the top of my list when I arrange my work calendar every year. Monash Carols has an incredible history, it’s one of the biggest carols events in Melbourne.
MONASH: Yes, and it’s grown so much over the years that Monash Carols by Candlelight is now a FREE ticketed event. Tickets will be made available for all attendees through Trybooking. Registering for a ticket ensures we can deliver the best possible event for our community.
SANTA: OK, I’m ready. Book me a spot – let’s jingle the sleigh bells and boom out those carols.
MONASH: And we’ve got a long list of talented performers to help you on the night. It all kicks off at 5.30pm with children's activities and pre-show entertainment, including the wonderful students from Oakleigh Primary School.
SANTA: Yes, it’s going to be brilliant. I’ve been keeping in touch with the organisers. The dynamic Gary Pinto will host the big night of glamour and entertainment. The main concert gets underway at 7.30pm, featuring the talented Monash Carols Band - a collaboration between the Monash Concert Band and Oakleigh Brass Band, alongside the All Star Carols Band. And we’ll have performances from Jael Wena, Amalia Foy, Siena Katelyn, Oliver Mordaunt and many more.
MONASH: You’re always on top of all things Christmas!
SANTA: Oh, and don’t forget the spectacular fireworks display at 9pm. I always look forward to that.
MONASH: It’s so exciting, we’re counting the days until you can join us at Jells Park for another joyous year of Carols by Candlelight.
SANTA: Thanks to everyone in Monash for inviting me to be your guest, it really is one of my favourite events of the year. Best wishes for Christmas, New Year, summer and the whole holiday season.
And of course (booming) Ho, Ho, Ho! Merry Christmas!!
Monash Carols by Candlelight
How do I book: www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1291013
What else: Bring a torch, comfortable shoes, tarp and picnic rug, poncho, and warm clothes. Please leave your four-legged friends at home as the fireworks can cause distress to animals. Parking is limited, so plan your journey in advance.
Find out more: www.monash.vic.gov.au/carols