Fresh from its 2025 ARIA Award nomination for Best Original Soundtrack or Musical Theatre Cast Album, Michael Cassel Group has confirmed that A (VERY) MUSICAL CHRISTMAS is set to return with a new live cast album and following the national broadcast this festive season. The 2025 edition was filmed on the Melbourne set of MJ THE MUSICAL at Her Majesty’s Theatre and is hosted by Australian media personality Zan Rowe.
Presented by Michael Cassel Group and the ABC, the special once again brings together a line up of Australian musical theatre performers to reinterpret classic carols and Christmas standards. The new live recording will be released on 5 December, giving audiences a way to revisit the concert throughout the holiday period.
The television special A (VERY) MUSICAL CHRISTMAS will air on ABC TV at 7.30pm on Friday, 19 December 2025, with viewers also able to stream it on ABC iview from 1 December 2025. The accompanying album will launch on all major streaming platforms on 5 December 2025 and is available to pre save now.
The 2025 album features a mix of reworked festive staples and contemporary performances. Among the highlighted tracks are Georgina Hopson’s take on Angels We Have Heard, Karis Oka performing All I Want For Christmas Is You, Rob Mills delivering All Those Christmas Cliches, and a company finale of Let There Be Peace. The recording also includes Jingle Bells by the cast of Beetlejuice The Musical.
For the second consecutive year, A (VERY) MUSICAL CHRISTMAS is partnering with Beyond Blue, drawing attention to mental health and wellbeing during a time of year that can be difficult for many people. Proceeds from the live recording event will go toward Beyond Blue’s free, 24/7 Support Service, which offers confidential mental health assistance to people across Australia via phone, webchat and email.
Producer and CEO of Michael Cassel Group, Michael Cassel, shared the following statement alongside the announcement:
After the phenomenal response to last year’s album, and the honour of an ARIA nomination recognising that work, we’re thrilled to bring audiences another live recording to celebrate the broadcast of A (VERY) MUSICAL CHRISTMAS. This project has become a cherished celebration of community, talent and generosity, sharing the joy of the season while supporting Beyond Blue’s vital work.
