Review: Christmas with the Ennis Sisters Delivers Joy and Festive Harmonies to Ottawa

The Meridian Centrepointe Theatre was alive with anticipation, welcoming both eager first-timers and devoted fans who have long made the Ennis Sisters’ Christmas concert a treasured tradition. That blend of fresh faces and familiar admirers created a warm, communal atmosphere that perfectly captured the spirit of the season.

Maureen, Karen, and Teresa Ennis once again proved why they are among Canada’s finest live performers. Their harmonies—rich, seamless, and deeply moving—were the beating heart of the evening, weaving every song into a tapestry that felt both timeless and intimate.

The program offered a joyful mix of beloved Christmas favourites—songs that instantly transport audiences into holiday nostalgia—alongside gems like Tiny Trinkets, which highlighted the sisters’ storytelling gifts and Newfoundland roots. This balance kept the concert fresh and engaging, offering moments of reflection, laughter, and pure joy.

From the opening note to the final encore, the performance radiated warmth and festive cheer. It wasn’t just a concert—it was an immersion into the holiday spirit, leaving the audience humming carols and smiling long after the lights dimmed.

Beyond their vocal brilliance, Maureen, Karen, and Teresa are captivating live performers. Their stage presence is genuine and inviting, drawing the audience in with heartfelt ballads, playful banter, and an authenticity that makes you feel like part of their extended family.

What elevated the evening further was the sisters’ compassion. They acknowledged those facing hardship during the holidays and spoke to the pain of loss, reminding us that Christmas is as much about empathy as it is about celebration. Simply put, they understood the assignment.

One audience member captured it perfectly: “It’s like being at their table.” That intimacy, that sense of belonging, is what makes Christmas with the Ennis Sisters more than a concert—it’s a holiday gathering filled with music, memory, and magic. For newcomers, it was an unforgettable introduction; for returning fans, it was a reaffirmation of why the Ennis Sisters remain a beloved seasonal tradition.

It was mentioned to this reviewer that the sisters’ mother reads every review. So, if you’ll indulge me:

Mrs. Ennis, a happy belated birthday to you. And a heartfelt thank you for the gift of your three daughters. You raised three extraordinary women whose music and kindness make the world a brighter, better place.