(This story is sponsored by Universal Gospel Choir.)

Everyone knows how quickly the holiday schedule fills up but those looking for an event to get them into the Christmas spirit should be sure to make space on Sunday, December 9, for the Universal Gospel Choir (UGC). That’s because, for one night only, Vancouver’s beloved and longest-lived gospel choir will be kicking off the holiday season with its annual concert, The Magic of Yule, with guest performers Roy & Rosemary.

To honour the concert’s majestic location at the Orpheum Theatre, the choir, led by seasoned artistic director Lonnie Delisle, will be supported by the UGC band—with Michael Creber on piano, Jay Nickel on bass, Jay Esplana on drums, and Jay Leonard Juatco on guitar.

And for the first time ever, the choir will be accompanied by a full orchestra, with strings, woodwinds, and brass, bringing the music to life. UGC is best known for its big sound and exuberant sense of fun, and this year’s concert promises to be no exception.

Audiences can enjoy a traditional holiday experience with classics like “Go Tell It on the Mountain” and “O Come, O Come,  Emanuel”. But in true UGC style, the magical evening will celebrate all genres of music with a diverse list of unforgettable songs like “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” along with a few surprises such as “Defying Gravity” from the hit Broadway play Wicked.

Special guests Roy & Rosemary are famous for their fusion approach to blending violin and piano. Adept at on-the-spot improvisations in various music styles, the world-class duo is known for its versatility, passion, musicianship, and style. Based in Vancouver, Roy Tan and Rosemary Siemens have performed all over the world from St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, to the 2008 Beijing and 2010 Vancouver Olympics, to Carnegie Hall in New York. So The Magic of Yule is a wonderful opportunity to see them on their home turf.

Once you’ve experienced UGC’s enchanting and uplifting sound, you and your family will be sure to add this annual concert to your list of holiday traditions for years to come. But you’d better act fast because tickets are set to sell out quickly.

UGC’s Magic of Yule with guest performers Roy & Rosemary takes place at 7 p.m. on Sunday, December 9 at the historic Orpheum Theatre (601 Smithe Street). Tickets are on sale now, ranging from $35 to $48 with a 15 percent discount available for students. To reserve your seat or for more information, visit www.universalgospelchoir.ca. Or enter for your chance to win two tickets, below.