Go Away With … Sarah Brightman

Jae-Ha Kim
Chicago Tribune
December 10, 2020

Sarah Brightman’s world tour was canceled earlier this year due to the coronavirus pandemic. But the British singer-songwriter known for her work in “Cats” and “The Phantom of the Opera” is doing her part to keep her fans entertained. On December 20, she will perform in the livestream concert, “Sarah Brightman: A Christmas Symphony.” (Ticket information is available at sarahbrightman.com.) “I am very much looking forward to this concert as it is my first Christmas show,” she said. “I have been thinking about doing a livestream for quite some time now, but I really wanted to find the right time to entertain. Christmas is my favorite time of year and I thought this would be the perfect time to bring something uplifting to everyone around the world after a very challenging year.” Brightman has teamed up with the Global FoodBanking Network to raise awareness of food insecurity worldwide.

Q: Why did you decide to team up with the Global FoodBanking Network?

A: This year in particular, there has never been a greater need to help families around the world. The hardships everyone is facing are unprecedented, but are heightened considerably around the holiday season. I am just honored to be associated with them and hope this helps, even if it is just a little bit, to raise awareness of their incredible efforts.

Q: I understand your concert will include classics like “Ave Maria” and “Silent Night.” Will you sing some of your other well-known songs that aren’t necessarily Christmas related?

A: Yes, I handpicked the songs to include both holiday classics and a few festive fan favorites. I’m fortunate that many of my songs throughout my career transcend any specific theme. I am very much looking forward to reuniting and performing “Christmas Dream” with Andrew Lloyd Webber. He created a beautiful new arrangement for this song. I hope all will enjoy.

Q: How have you spent some of your past Christmases and where you will be celebrating this year?

A: I have a very close family and have spent previous Christmases with them just outside of London. Of course, my beautiful two little dachshunds are always with me! As with everyone else around the world, this year will be a bit different and I will be celebrating quietly in my home country.

Q: Have you ever spent Christmas in a warm-weather destination?

A: Over the years, I have enjoyed the holidays in many different climates including warm ones such as Miami, the Bahamas. … But as it is my favorite time of year, I just enjoy embracing the season regardless of where I am. It is such an uplifting time and I enjoy listening to the music and feeling the energy.

Q: Some artists have told me that while they miss touring, it has also been nice to be forced to rest at home. How have you handled not being able to tour this year?

A: I was right in the middle of my Hymn world tour and had to postpone various tour dates in China and South Korea, which I hope to have rescheduled some time in 2021 to 2022. I do love touring and visiting incredible countries around the world and seeing fans, but I have enjoyed spending time at home with my dogs, as it is such a rarity. Creativity is always flowing and I have been able to work on other music projects that would not have been possible if I had been on tour, including creating this very special Christmas show, which I hope all will enjoy.

Q: What is your favorite vacation destination?

A: I am extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to travel the world throughout my career. There are so many places that I love to visit and spend time enjoying the culture. It is very difficult to just pick one, but I do enjoy spending personal holiday time in the South of France. The arts, culture and cuisine in the South of France are all so fantastic! Embrace every moment and invest in a very comfortable pair of shoes. Walk as much as possible and explore all the museums.

Q: Do you speak any foreign languages? And on the same train of thought, do you pick up new languages easily?

A: I am very fortunate that I am able to pick up languages rather quickly, but I still do need to study. Throughout my career, I have sung in many, many different languages, but I find the Latin languages a bit easier to learn. I find it all so very interesting.

Q: What are your five favorite cities?

A: Oh, only five? There are so many, but Tokyo, New York, Mexico City, Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo have a special place in my heart. But there are many, many more across Asia, Europe and around the world.

Q: Where have you traveled to that most reminded you of home?

A: New York and London truly celebrate (Christmas) and come alive with all of the holiday festivities and lights. They remind me of each other.

Q: Where would you like to go that you have never been to before?

A: Perhaps maybe India–so much beautiful music, culture and history there.

Q: When you go away, what are some of your must-have items?

A: Very comfortable clothes and walking shoes. I love to walk and explore cities wherever I go.