TEN SHOWS TO SLEIGH CHRISTMAS

Christmas is coming, and Birmingham's Town Hall and Symphony Hall have apparently decided that subtlety is for January. Between them, they've assembled a festive programme featuring everything from singing frogs to flying snowmen, soulful superstars and a small boy committing grievous bodily harm against two burglars.

First up, The Overtones bring their doo-wop, soul and festive harmonies to Jivin' Home for Christmas (Dec 4), before Disney's The Muppet Christmas Carol (Dec 8 and 9) gets the live-orchestra treatment. Michael Caine acting opposite a frog remains one of cinema's greatest achievements.

Joss Stone delivers powerhouse seasonal soul on her Merry Christmas, Love Tour (Dec 11), while Birmingham's own Toyah Willcox throws Toyah's Christmas Party (Dec 13), presumably with the volume set somewhere north of reasonable.

Love Actually (Dec 14) receives full orchestral accompaniment, allowing audiences to experience Hugh Grant's dancing with considerably more musical gravitas and December 20 brings two very different treats: The Snowman, screened with live orchestra, Shaun the Sheep and a festive singalong; and Christmas with Sir Karl Jenkins, featuring carols, classical favourites and the composer himself conducting.

Strictly's Gorka Márquez leads the glittering Xmas on the Dancefloor (Dec 21), before Home Alone in Concert (Dec 23) sees the CBSO perform John Williams' glorious score live. Kevin McCallister, backed by Birmingham's finest. What could go wrong?

Finally, The Glenn Miller Orchestra (Dec 27) rounds things off with big-band swing and wartime classics.

Ten shows. Two magnificent venues. Absolutely no excuse for staying in.