Speaking about her invitation to perform for Pope Francis when he visits Ireland in 2018, Celine says: “It is truly an honour for me to be asked to sing during this very special visit by the Pope.
"I have been fortunate enough to perform for Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI – so Pope Francis will be the third Pope I have performed for.
“The visit itself is long-awaited and I think it will bring a sense of rejuvenation and excitement to members of the church in Ireland.”
It’s been a fantastic year for Celine who – apart from receiving the news that she’s been invited to sing during the Papal visit in 2018 – performed recently with José Carreras in China and with Andrea Bocelli in the 3 Arena, Dublin.
After returning from concerts in Russia and China, the Irish soprano’s festive concert, ‘Celine Byrne Home for Christmas’ at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre will see her perform popular songs from the world of opera and operetta, such as ‘O Mio Babbino Caro’, ‘Un bel Di’ from Madame Butterfly and ‘Villia’ from The Merry Widow.
She will also sing festive favourites such as the haunting ‘In The Bleak Mid-Winter’, ‘O Holy Night’ and ‘White Christmas’.
Celine – who has appeared everywhere from the London's Royal Albert Hall to New York's famous Carnegie Hall – will be joined on stage by her festive orchestra, which will be conducted by David Brophy.
“I am so looking forward to this Celine Byrne Home for Christmas Show at the Bord Gais on December 18th. I know that conductor David Brophy will bring out the very best in me and the orchestra and it will be the perfect night to start everyone’s Christmas week,” Celine says.
Tickets are from €28 - €75 and are on sale now from www.ticketmaster.ie 0818 719 377 (ROI) / 0844 847 2455 (UK & NI) or in person in the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre.