So you’ve finally got your hands on Candlelight tickets and you’re eagerly waiting for the day to come around. To ensure you make the most of your experience, we’ve rounded up some useful tips we think will come in handy. From seating arrangements to setlists, here are five things to know before going to a Candlelight concert in Bristol.
1. Plan your journey
Okay okay, it’s an obvious one, but planning your journey ahead of time is really important. Doors usually open 30 minutes before the concert start time and seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis in each zone, so the earlier you arrive at the venue, the better. Take a look at bus and train times or car parks close by and turn up with some time to spare.
2. Dress code
To put it plainly, there’s no dress code at a Candlelight concert. It’s not like the typical classical concerts where you’re expected to dress in all your finery. But if you’re a bit stuck on what to wear, smart casual is recommended.
3. What to expect at the venue
Candlelight presents concerts inside some of Bristol’s finest venues, including The Mount Without and St Mary Redcliffe Church. Thousands of LED candles will light up the space around you, giving you the chance to appreciate the venue’s stunning architecture and historic interiors. Once you arrive, you’ll show your tickets to a member of staff who will show you to your seating section.
4. Mobile use
Before the performance begins, you’ll be asked to refrain from taking pictures and videos, because it can be quite distracting for both the musicians and other members of the audience. Towards the end of the show, however, the musicians will allow you take a photo, but just remember — no flash!
5. The setlist
The setlist is usually subject to change, but you can expect to hear the artist’s biggest hits or most famous compositions on the night. String quartets, pianists, jazz bands and more ensembles have taken to the Candlelight stage in the past, putting their own spin on some of music’s greatest pieces.
And there you go! Now you know what to expect, you can arrive with some time to spare, sit back in the candlelit space and enjoy the show. There’re usually two shows on the night, each lasting approximately 60 minutes.