Geraldine Connor

In 1994, Geraldine Connor created a show that once seen, was instantly unforgettable.

Inspired by the 1992 album, ‘Handel’s Messiah - A Soulful Celebration’, an interpretation by some of America’s leading soul, jazz and R&B singers, Geraldine’s ambition was to give Handel’s oratorio, a radical infusion of Carnival spirit, drama and fun. The result sold out twice at West Yorkshire Playhouse, and in Trinidad. An undisputed success, with critics and audiences alike, Carnival Messiah is a triumphant fusion of classical music and the carnival spirit, West Indian and British culture – under one-roof.

What the critics said

"You know that a production has been really exciting when you get up to join in the standing ovation and your knees are wobbly."
Daily Telegraph

"A riot of colour, African music and joy, as the story is given an entirely fresh sound and fresher slant."
Lyn Gardner, Pick of the Week, The Guardian

"Until you"ve heard the heavy dub version of For Unto Us a Child Is Born, you haven't lived. It is customary with Messiah for everyone to stand up during the Hallelujah chorus. Here it is more a case of persuading people to sit down."
Alfred Hickling, The Guardian

"A show so sunshine-bright you might be advised to wear sun-block.Hallelujah, what a show!"
Charles Hutchinson, York Evening Press

"At the interval I was exhausted in the nicest possible way".
Alison Bellamy, Yorkshire Evening Post

"Carnival Messiah is not just an exhilarating colourful musical. Nor is it just a contemporary version of the life of Jesus. to see and hear the Hallelujah Chorus played by a 20-strong, all white steel band is moving beyond words – and a true example of the crossing of cultures."
Katharine Cheney, Magnet

"It is difficult to find enough expletive adjectives that put into words the terrific spectacle.Carnival Messiah is an explosion of joyous noise and colour."
DineDirect.net

"A celebration of life could not be more passionate and glorious.not only is Carnival Messiah an amazing visual feast it is .a wonderful experience that fully deserved the standing ovation it received".
Debbie Moxey, Itchy Media

"Many of the cast were drawn from the community, but there was no hint of amateurishness in their performances, while the Hallelujah Chorus on steel drums was a revelation."
Trish Ellis, Pontefract & Castleford Express

"Creator Geraldine Connor has taken Handel's Messiah and turned it into rocket fuel. Its passion and power match its sparkling humour."
Rosey Hamilton, Bradford Telegraph & Argus

"Carnival Messiah is an eye-boggling triumph. Spellbinding from first to last"
Teletext

"Best go and see for yourself and then wait for the steel band - you will not resist the standing ovation at the end."
Duska Radosavijevic Heaney, The Stage