World-class soprano on Doctor Who Proms Christmas Eve broadcast

Aida discusses her experience at the Proms, the power of blending classical music with popular culture, and her hopes for the future.

What was it like to perform at the Doctor Who Prom, where classical music and sci-fi collide in such a unique way?

It was such a special day. The combination of the orchestra and choir and the powerful imagery was unique. It created such a dramatic atmosphere, both beautiful and surreal at the same time.

How did you approach performing pieces inspired by Doctor Who?

I watched the previous Doctor Who Prom with my daughter to give me a flavour of how other performers had interpreted Murray Gold’s wonderful music. It gave me an idea, but honestly, it was only once I stepped onto the set in that magnificent hall that it hit me. The soaring themes and the stunning visuals inspired me.

Did the show’s fantastical and otherworldly themes influence your interpretation?

Yes, this happened almost subconsciously as the staging automatically transports you to this world of Doctor Who. The set felt very immersive, particularly when the Daleks and other characters moved around in the audience and sometimes even on the stage! I remember leaving the stage during the morning rehearsal and almost walking straight into a Dalek. I nervously laughed as the Dalek whisked past me, saying, “Exterminate! Exterminate!” I’m nervously laughing again just at the memory.

Were any particular pieces or moments in the Doctor Who Prom performance that stood out to you as particularly memorable or special?

There were many memorable moments. One of the outstanding moments was my first stage entrance. I remember entering the Royal Albert Hall from near the loggia, above the stage, in front of where the choir were sat. It commanded a sweeping view of the orchestra, the conductor, and the beautiful auditorium. Although I have been fortunate enough to perform at the Royal Albert Hall several times, this was the first time I felt like I was floating above the stage! Plus, I had the iconic TARDIS right by me. I was so tempted to have a peek inside!

The Proms are such a British institution. What did performing at the Royal Albert Hall in this context mean to you personally and professionally?

Nothing compares to it. I love this occasion and was first introduced to the Proms back in 2019 when I was invited to sing Rule Britannia at the Last Night of the Proms in Hyde Park. I will never forget that night with the flags waving throughout the audience and the rousing chorus as the entire park joined in! Since moving to London a couple of years ago and living not far from Hyde Park, I often walked past the Royal Albert Hall and kept hoping that my dream of performing a Prom at the Hall itself would become a reality. And thanks to Murray Gold, my wish came true! It is a professional highlight of my career and also resonates with me even more now that I am a Londoner. My next dream is to be invited to sing at the Last Night of the Proms at the Royal Albert Hall.

Murray Gold mentioned that you were sent “Vale Decem” and “Abigail’s Song” as an ‘audition’ for the Doctor Who Prom. What was your first reaction when you heard these pieces? Did they resonate with you immediately?

Hahaha, I wish all of my auditions were like that! Both pieces resonated with me immediately as far as the music was concerned. They are timeless and highly emotional pieces of music. I am very sensitive, so both songs immediately touched me, but it was only once I understood the context of each of these beautiful songs that I was able to fine-tune the expression of my vocal.

These two songs are so emotional and tied to a significant era of Doctor Who. How did you connect with their themes and make them your own?I was rehearsing the part of Violetta in La Traviata at the Royal Opera House in the lead-up to the Prom and was trying to find a slot to meet up with the maestro Alastair King, the Doctor Who Prom conductor, so we could run through the songs. I am so happy we did that, as Alastair provided some great context, which I found very helpful when developing the expression and intonation—particularly for a song in Latin! It all fell into place when we rehearsed with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and the London Philharmonic Choir the morning of the concert, especially when I saw the visuals on the screens as these tell the story. It’s impossible not to be moved when you watch the regeneration of all of the Doctors.

Doctor Who At The Proms airs Christmas Eve at 4:10 PM on BBC Two.

Don’t miss Aida Garifullina live at Cadogan Hall on Monday, 24th March 2025. Tickets are available now at myticket.co.uk.