Primary Times Cheshire & The Wirral - February Half Term 2024

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ON WHE RE GUIDE

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 • ISSUE 187 29TH JANUARY – 10TH MARCH 2024

HALF TERM FUN • LOCAL NEWS • THEATRE GUIDE • WHAT’S ON

2 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

Hello Readers, Welcome to our first issue of 2024! We hope you’ve had a good start to the New Year and your children have re-settled into daily school life.

Winter is now upon us, offering up its bare trees and frosty weather, but that’s no reason to hunker down at home all season! Instead of waiting for the warmer weather to return, pull on your winter woollies and take advantage of the change of season by creating a list of cold-weather activities and fun things to do.

Kids (and parents) will benefit from a fun and active half term break, so we’ve featured some fabulous places and family entertainment throughout this issue. Don’t worry – lots of options are undercover so you can have a brilliant time and dodge the wind and rain if needed!

We’ll be back again in March, when the warmer days are on the horizon, with lots of exciting Easter news and local events for your calendars.

Until then, we wish you all a very happy half term break with your families.

INSIDE Cheshire & The Wirral

04 IN THE NEWS

The latest news from in and around Cheshire

06 HALF TERM FUN

A selection of fun activities for February half term

10 WOW

What’s on Where! A variety of places to visit this season

12 FUTURE EVENTS

Looking ahead to some great spring days out

February Half Term 2024 PUBLISHED BY Moonscape Media Ltd 07710 229189 kerry@moonscapemedia.net EDITOR Michelle Dilger DEPUTY EDITOR Louise Fry PRODUCTION Tristan Kayes ADVERTISING Kerry Beardsmore LISTINGS EDITOR Suzanne Watson FEATURES EDITOR Helen Chitham

14 BOX OFFICE

An array of theatre, arts and films in the area

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Cheshire and the Wirral. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Cheshire and the Wirral for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout the UK. Primary Times Cheshire and the Wirral is operated under franchise licence.

www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 3

NEWS

LOCAL NEWS FROM THE CHESHIRE AREA

NEW YEAR, TRY SOMETHING NEW! After the buzz of Christmas and the New Year, we can all feel a little exhausted trying to fall back into school schedules, work, planning meals (and the rest!) and all whilst trying to stay active. Brio are grabbing hold of January and shaking things up! No more ‘New Year, New You’. All they want is to encourage as many people as possible, to try something new to help kickstart your year the right way. Your way!

How can they help?

You and the kids can all grab a Take 5 pass from Brio Leisure. For Kids, pay just £16.50 and choose five activities for as little as £3.30 each when you pay upfront. Juniors can enjoy swim sessions such as wet ‘n’ wild and casual swimming, off-peak racquet sports and gym workouts for those over 12 and fitness classes for those over 14.

Adults can also enjoy five activities across five weeks for just £27.50! This includes swimming, spa (where available), fitness classes, off-peak racquets, and the gym too. Go on, give something new a try and make 2024 work your way!

For more information, visit your local centre today check online. Membership and activity terms and conditions apply. W: www.brioleisure.org/take5

ALDERLEY EDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS – PREP SCHOOL OPEN WEEK Join them at Alderley Edge from 5th-9th February for an exhilarating glimpse into the empowering world of AESG. Experience the dynamic blend of challenge and nurture that defines their all-girls’ education. Witness the flourishing confidence of their students as they embrace endless possibilities. Beyond the classroom, exciting residentials await with trips to iconic destinations like London and York. With over 40 weekly extracurricular clubs, your child can hone diverse skills. Immerse in creativity through Music, Art, and Drama, while competitive sports elevate their prowess in the North West. Discover a vibrant community where every girl thrives and believes in her limitless potential. W: www.aesg.co.uk

TRY A FREE CONFIDENCE BUILDING PERFORM CLASS The spring term is underway and Perform confidence-building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s are in full swing! Children are welcome to join at any point in the term and can first try a free class to see if they like it. With two brilliant themes this term, 4-7s are enjoying a high-energy adventure to the Wild West while 7-12s work on a dancefloor-filling adaptation of Snow White, in Killa Queen.

Perform is a unique children’s drama school with a special emphasis on child development, using a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: confidence, communication, coordination and concentration.

The curriculum ensures plenty of fun using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. Free apps, music downloads and videos help keep the magic of the classes alive at home. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class in Heswall, Hoole or West Kirby today! T: 020 7255 9120 E: enquiries@perform.org.uk

TAKE LEARNING OUT OF THE CLASSROOM WITH AN EXCITING VISIT TO ZIP WORLD Zip World Schools is a unique pupil-led programme, aiming to get teachers and pupils out of the classroom and into exciting real-life scenarios. Fully in-line with the National Curriculum and linking namely to Geography and Physics for Key Stages 2 and 3, the bilingual programmes come complete with multiple lesson plans, resources, presentations and of course the all-important visit to one of Zip World’s out-ofthis-world locations to put the learning to practice.

From map reading to understanding forces, what better way to gain new skills than bouncing along underground caverns on suspended nets, or zipping across a disused quarry? Not looking to complete the full programme? Zip World’s doors are always open to school trips of any kind, call 01248 601 444 or email info@zipworld.co.uk for more information.

4 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

LIMITED PLACES FOR SEPTEMBER 2024 AVAILABLE AT QUEEN’S

At Queen’s, every girl’s voice is heard and celebrated. Their small, bespoke, and personalised environment creates a space where every pupil feels truly listened to and empowered. There, it’s not about fitting into a mould, but about embracing the unique strengths and perspectives that each girl offers.

Their emphasis on outdoor learning at the Lower School is one aspect that sets them apart from others, with girls having the opportunity to experience the enriching Beach School programme and immersive Forest Days, each one carefully curated for each year group. These initiatives foster a deep connection with nature, while encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and a genuine appreciation for the world around us. Their warm, caring, and nurturing school provides the perfect setting for your daughter’s ambition to flourish, dreams be realised, and a solid foundation laid from which to build and be happy and successful.

Limited spaces are still available in some year groups for September 2024. Contact their Admissions team today to book a tour and taster day and experience yourself how a Queen’s education is the best choice for your daughter. W: www.thequeensschool.co.uk www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

Primary NEWS

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www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 5

Half Term FUN

Looking for some fun activities to keep young minds entertained? There are lots of family-friendly events and activities taking place this February half term and beyond. Things to do include arts and crafts, science shows, outdoor trails, steam train adventures and more. Read on to plan a memorable and happy half term for all, right on your doorstep!

GET YOUR SKATES ON FOR FAMILY FITNESS AND FUN ALL UNDER ONE ROOF – WITH ROLLERS CLUB!

SCIENCE-FILLED FUN AND DISCOVERY AT XPLORE!

Get ready to roll into fitness and fun with Rollers Club! Serving Cheshire and Manchester, their mobile roller disco brings a healthy twist to entertainment for all ages from four onwards. Glide towards wellness while having a blast - they offer rollerblade and roller-skate rentals ensuring everyone can join in. With nine vibrant locations to choose from, their energetic sessions cater to fitness enthusiasts and families alike. Embrace the rhythm, book your slot online, and let the wheels of health and enjoyment take you on an unforgettable journey. Join them and spin, skate, and smile your way to a healthier, happier you! W: www.rollersclub.co.uk

Join Xplore! on an exciting adventure into the mysteries of space, exploring the depths of our oceans, and uncovering the unique wonders of science in their brandnew public show, Our World from Space! Running from the 20th of January until the 25th of February, Our World from Space is an immersive experience, guaranteed to spark your imagination, featuring a volcanic woosh bottle, dissolving seashells and state-of-the-art demonstrations on how hot our oceans really are! Let your creativity run wild with over 80 interactive exhibits to ignite curiosity and learning for all ages! Join them for a day of science-filled fun! W: www.xplorescience.co.uk

LIGHTS, CAMERA, CIRCUS! GET READY FOR GANDEYS HOLLYWOOD SPECTACULAR! ENJOY FUN AND ADVENTURE AT THE EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY THIS HOLIDAY

Looking for something fun to do with the kids this half term?

Then why not take them on some steam powered adventures at the East Lancashire Railway? Kick things off with a magical madcap tour of the school of sorcery with The Wizard Adventure on 22nd February. If that wasn’t enough, they will be welcoming the excitable sisters, Bluey and Bingo, from Down Under to visit the Bury Transport Museum on 24th February. To find out more, and to book tickets, call or visit them online. T: 0333 320 2830 W: www.eastlancsrailway.co.uk

Step onto the red carpet and into the Big Top as Gandeys Circus, the unparalleled maestro of spectacular circus entertainment, unveils the 2024 Hollywood Spectacular! Brace yourselves for a seamless blend of circus magic with the glittering glamour of Hollywood. This is a show that demands your attention - a rollercoaster of madness that promises to captivate the entire family. From crazy comedy to the graceful acrobatics of the flying trapeze, every moment is a spectacle.

This is not just a circus - this is blockbuster family entertainment! Touring from the 9th February, visit online to see all venues, dates and to book your tickets. W: www.gandey.com

JUMP FOR JOY THIS HALF TERM AT FREEDOME! Make the most of the half term at Freedome Trampoline Park! The perfect day out for the whole family, whatever the weather. Choose from Open Jump, Toddler Takeover, and After Dark sessions to keep the whole family entertained.

Whether you are four or 54, leaving with a smile on your face is guaranteed!

With space for 50 jumpers, Freedome is the perfect venue for group bookings. School trips, youth group days out, and corporate team building can all be catered for. Planning a party? Choose a 100%-Fun-Zero-Stress party package. A choice of packages is available, each including a party host, food, decorations, and clean up – starting from £16pp. Perfect for an unforgettable and stress-free birthday celebration. Enquire today to discuss your requirements! T: 0330 223 3333 W: www.freedomeparks.com Save 15% on weekday parties during term time using the code WEEKDAY15

6 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

Half Term FUN

Bringing Science to life for all!

Every visit is filled with exciting exploration, fun activities, and play!

Book your tickets online today www.xplorescience.co.uk www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

Wrexham, LL13 8AE

01978 293400 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 7

Half Term FUN

CELEBRATE 25 YEARS OF THE GRUFFALO WITH AN EXCITING FOREST ADVENTURE

Forestry England’s Delamere Forest is thrilled to announce a year-long celebratory trail launching on 24th January, to mark the 25th anniversary of the award-winning book, “The Gruffalo”. The Gruffalo’s 25th Birthday Trail is a party in the forest and families are encouraged to work together to search for missing party items whilst enjoying fun and games along the way. For those looking to enhance their experience, an accompanying trail pack is available to buy for just £4. This fantastic celebratory trail will captivate Gruffalo fans of all ages, so plan your visit today. W: www.forestryengland.uk

FEBRUARY HALF TERM FUN AT BRIDGEWATER: WORLD ON YOUR WINDOWSILL

ROUND UP YOUR CURIOUS KIDS AND TREAT THEM TO A SHOW THAT GOES OFF WITH A BANG!

This February half term, Jodrell Bank presents an EXPLOSIVE new Science Show ‘Curious Kids!’.

Set your course for an incredible LIVE show that promises to really go off with a BANG! Try to keep a cool head as you test your knowledge in their Adults vs Kids Space Quiz, and join their team of Explainers to investigate incredible forces found on Earth and beyond! Suitable for all ages, running from the 19th-23rd February and included FREE with entry tickets. Don’t forget to explore the rest of their amazing site including exhibitions, crafting and planetarium shows - there’s a whole Universe to discover!

W: www.jodrellbank.net

Join the fun this half term from the 10th-25th February at RHS Garden Bridgewater, with activities for all the family to enjoy, no matter what the weather! Have a go at family craft activities, fun planting sessions, interactive storytime, take part in a garden adventure for little explorers and grab your wellies and explore the seasonal garden trail.

Advance booking is required, and normal garden admission applies. T: 0161 503 6100 W: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater

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www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

Half Term FUN

SEE AND HEAR THE STORY OF ROMEO AND JULIET AT THE BRIDGEWATER HALL THIS FEBRUARY LET TRACS GET YOUR FAMILY CYCLE-READY FOR OUTDOOR FUN THIS WINTER!

Tracs (UK) Ltd is based in the heart of Delamere Forest and offers individuals of all ages and ability the opportunity to experience cycling through their scenic forest either on wide open, familyfriendly forest roads or for the more skilled there are miles of uninterrupted single-tracks to discover.

There is also a skills area for the more experienced riders. Tracs offer an extensive variety of hire bikes including a choice of child seat, buggy and tag-a-long. They also have a shop on site to take care of all your needs including a range of new bikes, parts, safety equipment and toys. Children’s parties, guided rides, even learn-to-ride days are available to book with Tracs. On site they have a full workshop with Cytech trained mechanics to take care of all your bike servicing needs too.

T: 01606 881 802 W: www.delamerebikes.co.uk

Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is one of the most famous stories ever written and the Hallé, with the help of presenter Tom Redmond, will take you through Prokofiev’s exciting Romeo and Juliet Suite. You might even recognise Dance of the Knights, otherwise known as the theme tune to BBC’s One’s The Apprentice. Enjoy this Musical Story of Romeo and Juliet at The Bridgewater Hall on Sunday 25th February at 12 noon. Get in the mood for the concert by exploring their creative activities in the foyer before the concert starts! W: www.halle.co.uk

EXCITING FAMILY SHOWS THIS HALF TERM AT STORYHOUSE

Storyhouse in Chester has lots of shows that kids will love this half term! It all kicks off with Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland on Monday 19th February, where Carroll’s Wonderland floods onto the stage in a whirl of strange contraptions and curious characters. The Amazing Bubble Man on Tuesday 20th February promises to thrill audiences with the art of magic, science and fun of bubbles.

Plus, on Friday 23rd February, Tap Factory makes it return to the UK with its 10th Anniversary Tour.

End the week following the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventures! Fresh from the West End, The Gruffalo’s Child comes to Chester on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th February. Book your tickets now. W: www.storyhouse.com

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Sat 10 – Sun 25 Feb Have fun this half term and enjoy kid friendly activities whatever the weather! Discover the wonderful world of herbs and learn how to grow your own flavour-boosting ingredients to spice up mealtimes. Let’s get growing! rhs.org.uk/bridgewater

RHS Registered Charity No: 222879/SC038262 RHS Registered Charity No: 222879/SC038262

www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 9

WOW – What’s On Where

HINGS TO DO LOCALLY T N FU

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Ongoing 25 Years of the Gruffalo Delamere Forest www.forestryengland.uk A year-long celebratory trail, to mark the 25th anniversary of the award-winning book. The Gruffalo’s 25th Birthday Trail is a party in the forest and families are encouraged to work together to search for missing party items whilst enjoying fun and games along the way. For those looking to enhance their experience, an accompanying trail pack is available to buy for just £4.

Drama, Dance & Singing Classes Perform www.perform.org.uk/try Confidence-building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Visit their website to book a FREE class!

Tracs Shop and Hire Delamere Forest www.delamerebikes.co.uk Tracs offers individuals of all ages and ability the opportunity to experience cycling through the scenic forest either on wide open family friendly forest roads or for the more skilled there are miles of uninterrupted single-tracks to discover. Bike hire and an on-site shop are onsite alongside bike servicing.

Children’s parties, guided rides even learn to ride days are available to book.

Get Your Skates On! Roller Disco www.rollersclub.co.uk Offering Roller Discos across the Northwest with latest music and disco lighting! Skates are available for hire and beginners are welcome. Book online.

10 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

Saturday 10th February

Saturday 24th February

World on your Windowsill

Bluey & Bingo Family Fun Day

RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk Join the fun this February half term.

Have a go at family craft activities, fun planting sessions, interactive storytime, take part in a garden adventure for little explorers and grab your wellies and explore the seasonal garden trail.

Running until 25th February.

Monday 19th February

Join Xplore!

Science Discovery Centre www.xplorescience.co.uk Our World from Space is an immersive experience, guaranteed to spark your imagination, featuring a volcanic woosh bottle, dissolving seashells and state-ofthe-art demonstrations on how hot our oceans really are! Let your creativity run wild with over 80 interactive exhibits to ignite curiosity and learning for all ages.

Running until 25th February.

Take 5 Pass Brio Leisure www.brioleisure.org/take5.

You and the kids can all grab a Take 5 pass from Brio Leisure. For kids, pay just £16.50 and choose five activities for as little as £3.30 each when you pay upfront. Juniors can enjoy swim sessions such as wet ‘n’ wild and casual swimming, off-peak racquet sports and gym workouts for those over 12 and fitness classes for those over 14. Adults can also enjoy five activities across five weeks for just £27.50!

Monday 5th February Alderley Edge School for Girls – Prep School Open Week www.aesg.co.uk Prep School Open Week from 5th-9th February. Experience the dynamic blend of challenge and nurture that defines the education experience at Alderley Edge School For Girls.

Friday 9th February Hollywood Spectacular Gandey’s Circus www.gandey.com Brace yourselves for a seamless blend of circus magic with the glittering glamour of Hollywood. From crazy comedy to the graceful acrobatics of the flying trapeze, every moment is a spectacle. This is not just a circus – this is blockbuster family entertainment! Touring from 9th February, visit online to see all venues, dates and to book your tickets.

Say you saw it in Primary Times

East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk See Bluey and Bingo at intervals throughout the day at Bury Transport Museum. Don’t forget to take your cameras! There will also be a fun fair, face painters, petting zoo and craft activities for you and the family to enjoy, all included in the ticket price. Complete your day out with a ride with one of the heritage steam or diesel trains through the Irwell valley. Ticket price includes a ride on any train service on the day of your visit – just pick the time that suits you! Tickets must be purchased online.

Saturday 2nd March Science Show – Curious Kids Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net Try to keep a cool head as you test your knowledge in the Adults vs Kids Space Quiz, and join the team of Explainers to investigate incredible forces found on Earth and beyond! Suitable for all ages.

19th-23rd February. Included free with entry tickets.

Lambing Weekends Reseheath Zoo www.reaseheath.ac.uk/lambing A memorable family weekend full of fun and excitement! The event will be held in spacious facilities on the main campus with ticket prices including entrance to both lambing and the Zoo. Prepaid tickets only. Also on 3rd, 9th and 10th March.

Jump!

Freedome Trampoline Park www.freedomeparks.com Great fun whatever the weather! Lots of different sessions to choose from to cater for all age groups including Open Jump, Toddler Takeover and After Dark sessions.

Children Stay FREE Carden Park Hotel www.cardenpark.co.uk Discover family activities galore, as well as plenty for the adults this season! Children stay free over February half term. Terms and conditions apply, please check online.

Thursday 22nd February Wizarding Adventure East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Enjoy an interactive magical experience on a steam train! You’ll take lessons in the basics of broomsticks, practice your potion making, be instructed in incantations and learn to tattle and talk with a tawny owl. Also running on several other dates during the year.

Friday 23rd February Dino Adventure East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Meet a herd of baby dinosaurs and their friends on a time travelling train.

A perfect adventure for dino fans from ages 5-12 but anyone is welcome to join the fun. You’ll get to learn all about these adorable dinosaurs from expert handlers in this fully interactive experience that is both educational and entertaining for all the family. Also on 12th April, 15th & 28th August.

Saturday 30th March Easter Family Fun Day Haydock Park www.thejockeyclub.co.uk Haydock Park Racecourse transforms into a prehistoric paradise for a day of family fun, filled with thrilling racing action alongside activities and entertainment that will leave your little explorers in awe. Under 18’s go FREE!

Saturday 4th May Day Out with Thomas East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk This popular event is running 4th-6th May over the Bank Holiday. Meet Sir Topham Hatt and cheeky station sweepers Rusty and Dusty in Bury before taking a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine himself.

Complete your day with Thomas themed games and activities, fun fair rides, balloon modellers, singing, dancing and much more. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!

www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

ai17053365159_primary times ad.pdf 1 15/01/2024 16:35:40

WOW – What’s On Where

Children Stay FREE at Carden Park Hotel February Half Term*

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Discover family activities galore, as well as plenty for the adults this season

*Terms & conditions apply. See cardenpark.co.uk for details

UNDER 18’S GO FREE!

EASTER FAMILY DAY

SATURDAY 30 MARCH 2024

www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 11

Future EVENTS

Looking ahead over the next few months there are some lovely family events to mark in your diaries. We’ve got your weekends covered!

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF SPRINGTIME AT REASEHEATH’S LAMBING WEEKENDS! Witness adorable newborn lambs, explore Reaseheath Zoo, and indulge in the best local produce at their Artisan Market. Join them for a memorable family weekend full of fun and excitement as the whole family can enjoy this unique springtime experience.

The event will be held in spacious facilities on their main campus with ticket prices including entrance to both lambing and the Reaseheath Zoo.

Weekend dates: Saturday 2nd March & Sunday 3rd March, Saturday 9th March & Sunday 10th March.

W: www.reaseheath.ac.uk

PREHISTORIC FAMILY FUN AT HAYDOCK PARK THIS EASTER

Get ready for a roar-some time as Haydock Park Racecourse transforms into a prehistoric paradise for a day of family fun on Saturday 30th March!

Their Easter Family Fun Day is set to be a Jurassic extravaganza, filled with thrilling racing action alongside activities and entertainment that will leave your little explorers in awe. Embark on a journey back in time as the racecourse is transformed, encounter life-sized dinosaurs that move, roar, and amaze, creating an immersive experience for kids of all ages. Learn fascinating facts about these ancient creatures and take the opportunity to capture the perfect dino-selfie! W: www.thejockeyclub.co.uk

12 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

PLAN YOUR FAMILY’S DAY OUT WITH THOMAS THIS SPRING!

Get the family spring ready by booking a trip on the East Lancashire Railway for spectacular family fun on a Day Out with Thomas on the 4th-6th May! Meet Sir Topham Hatt and cheeky station sweepers Rusty and Dusty in Bury before taking a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine himself. Complete your day with Thomas themed games and activities, fun fair rides, balloon modellers, singing, dancing and much more.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. To find out more, and to book tickets, visit www.eastlancsrailway.co.uk or call 0333 320 2830.

Thomas and friends will be waiting for you!

www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

Future EVENTS STUDIOCANAL and Raymond Gubbay Ltd present

Enjoy the award-winning 2014 film on a giant HD screen, accompanied by a live orchestra playing Nick Urata’s calypso-infused score live.

Tuesday 9 April 3pm

Emprie Theatre, Liverpool Book tickets at rg.live/paddington

www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 13

Box OFFICE All the very best theatre, arts and films near you.

Altrincham Garrick Playhouse www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk

Wednesday 14th February

EXCITING SCIENCE This brand new, exciting, and educational show will amaze and astound all ages from 4 years & upwards, as they put the ‘Exciting’ back into ‘Science’. With fun and fact filled experiments, watch in amazement as they recreate a volcanic eruption; turn a vacuum cleaner into a missile launcher or take aim at you with the smoke blaster! Prepare to be amazed!

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!

Monday 11th – Saturday 16th March

The Bridgewater Hall

CINDERELLA – A GAPA SPRING PANTOMIME

Tuesday 20th February

Performed by the Garrick Academy of Performing Arts (GAPA). Filled with songs, comedy, dance and much more, this will be a hugely entertaining production of the classic fairytale.

Wednesday 3rd – Sunday 7th April

TREASURE ISLAND It’s time to set sail with the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse for an action-packed, swashbuckling adventure on the high seas to Treasure Island! Gathering a motley crew of sailors and pirates, Jim sets sail on the mighty Hispaniola bound for a lost island and untold fortunes. Will Jim and her friends find the buried gold?

www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Wednesday 20th – Thursday 21st March

ONCE UPON A TUNE

PEPPA PIG’S FUN DAY OUT

Live illustration, colourful music, and storytelling merge in this magical family concert from author and illustrator James Mayhew and Britten Sinfonia.

Packed full of songs, dance and muddy puddles, Peppa’s Fun Day Out guarantees giggles and snorts for all Peppa fans, and a perfect introduction to theatre.

Sunday 25th February

THE HALLE – THE MUSICAL SORY OF ROMEO AND JULIET Step into the seething heat of 14th-century Verona, as Romeo Montague decides to turn up, uninvited, to a ball held by his family’s archrivals, the Capulets.

As soon as Romeo sets his eyes on Juliet, the two fall instantly in love, much to their families’ anger. Their love is too strong to break their bond and the story finishes in tragedy, ending the war between the Montagues and Capulets forever.

Sunday 7th April

PADDINGTONTM IN CONCERT STUDIOCANAL and Raymond Gubbay Limited are pleased to present PaddingtonTM in Concert.

A heartwarming journey from Peru to London; experience the beloved 2014 film with a live orchestra – unforgettable family entertainment! Based on Michael Bond’s much-loved books, cherished by families since 1958, the charming story follows the misadventures of a young bear from Peru who travels to London in search of a home.

Storyhouse Theatre Chester www.storyhouse.com

Monday 19th February

ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND Drawing on the wealth of peculiar episodes from both Adventures in wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, Box Tale Soup invite you down the rabbit hole into a timeless world of wondrous fantasy.

Tuesday 20th February

THE AMAZING BUBBLEMAN Louis explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerized.

Saturday 24th – Sunday 25th February

THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD Follow the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in Tall Stories’ enchanting adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

Wednesday 3rd April

Lyceum Theatre Crewe www.crewelyceum.co.uk

Saturday 2nd – Sunday 3rd March

DEAR ZOO This production will delight all those who have read the book as it unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction.

14 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

THE SOOTY SHOW Celebrating 75 amazing years in show business, Sooty, Sweep and Soo are planning a very special birthday party and you’re all invited. However, in true Sooty style nothing goes to plan! This spectacular celebration will delight Sooty fans old and new and is a must-see treat for the whole family. Plus – join them after the show to meet Richard and Sooty!

www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

Box OFFICE

Theatre for Kids

February half-term!

Alice’s Adventures In Wonderland Mon 19 February Ages 3+

The Amazing Bubble Man

Tue 20 February Ages 3+

Tap Factory: 10th Anniversary Tour Fri 23 February Ages 5+

The Gruffalo’s Child Sat 24 - Sun 25 Feb Ages 3+ Find out more and book tickets at storyhouse.com/whats-on/kids/

Romeo Juliet Sunday 25 February, 12pm at �e Bridgewater Ha�, Manchester A HALLÉ FAMILY CONCERT See and hear the story of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, as told by a fu� symphony orchestra in the wonderful Bridgewater Ha�!

THE MUSICAL STORY OF

Manchester’s orchestra, the Hallé, conductor Maxime Pascal and presenter Tom Redmond present the story of Romeo and Juliet as told by Prokofiev’s spell-binding music in a fun-filled concert full of drama for all the family.

www.primarytimes.co.uk/cheshire

AND

Find out more at

HALLE.CO.UK/ FAMILY-CONCERTS

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 15

20 & 21 MAR

03433 100 050 • crewelyceum.co.uk

WED 20 – THU 21 MAR

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18/01/2024 15:27

LYCEUM SUMMER YOUTH PROJECT

Alan Parker’s

Bugsy Malone SAT 2 – SUN 3 MAR

SAT 9 – SUN 10 MAR

Northern Ballet The Tortoise & the Hare

SUN 24 MAR

FRI 17 – SUN 19 MAY

© Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2005 – Macmillan Children’s Books

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FUN FOR FAMILIES THIS SPRING AT CREWE LYCEUM

TASTER WORKSHOP SAT 23 MAR AUDITIONS SUN 28 APR REHEARSALS MON 5 – THU 15 AUG SHOWS FRI 16 – SAT 17 AUG

TICKETS 0343 310 0050 BOOK ONLINE crewelyceum.co.uk