This year’s Big Switch On event for Mansfield’s Christmas lights on Sunday, 18th November will feature live music from Mansfield-born professional opera singer Alexandra Stenson, Gary Barlow tribute act Dan Hadfield, and Nottinghamshire based rock/pop duo Brotherhood.

Alexandra, a soprano, was discovered by Mansfield’s Cantamus girls choir while singing on stage in the Market Place when she was 10.

She went on to train at Guildhall School of Music and Drama and English National Opera and has since sung all over the world.

At the Big Switch On in Mansfield Market Place, she will be performing a Christmas piece with pupils from her old school, All Saints’ Catholic Academy.

Dan Hadfield has sung with Gary Barlow himself and tours all over the UK and Europe, performing Gary’s greatest hits. His various TV appearances have included the Xtra Factor and Miranda.

Brotherhood are Ant and Matt Green who have built a strong local following since forming more than 18 years ago. They will perform an exciting and fast paced show with a mixture of popular hits and Christmas classics.

Cllr Dave Saunders, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Economic Growth, said: “It’s going to be a corker of a show with something to please everyone and get them into the festive spirit. Christmas in Mansfield this year will be a real cracker!”

The musical acts form part of the Big Switch On stage show, which attracts thousands every year, and will include appearances from the Palace Theatre’s panto stars, a dramatic laser show, Santa himself and a crowd pleasing firework display.

The event marks the start of Christmas in Mansfield which includes, for the first time ever in the town, an ice rink, funded by Mansfield District Council and sponsored by One Call.

There will also be a month-long Christmas Market on West Gate, organised by Mansfield BID with financial support from the council. The Switch On event is organised and funded by the council with support from Mansfield 103.2 and Four Seasons Shopping Centre.

The council thanked One Call, Mansfield and Ashfield 2020, Inplace Personnel, Mansfield Building Society, Linney, REAL Education, Hopkins Solicitors, Ambitions Personnel, Vertu Honda and McDonalds, i-Jump and Acorn Signs.