NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival Brochure 2017 by NewcastleGateshead Initiative

NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival @WinterFestNG Facebook.com/WinterFestival

NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

It’s my pleasure to welcome you to another fun-filled NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival. We have all your festive activities covered, including a selection of Christmas shopping opportunities, getting your skates on at the Centre for Life, a fantastic performance of the holiday favourite Home Alone accompanied by the Northern Symphonia, and a whole host of places to meet Santa himself! This year Enchanted Parks tells the story of The Inventors’ Ball which will see Saltwell Park filled with visitors, inventions, plants and strange creatures which we’re sure will

Ouseburn Open Studios Buy original work and unusual gifts from local artists.

Festive Shopping From one-off events to late night shopping.

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Festive Markets

surprise and delight! Plus, for the first time ever, you’ll be able to download our brandnew Enchanted Park app to enhance your visit before and during the event itself. Join us in celebrating New Year in theatrical style with East of the Sun, West of the Moon – a fantastic new event inspired by Norse folklore which sees the traditional carnival entertainment move to Newcastle’s Town Moor where there will be a monstrous bonfire and firework display! Have fun exploring and enjoy a wonderful winter. Vikki Leaney, Senior Festivals and Event Manager, NewcastleGateshead Initiative

Festive fun for all ages.

N EAREST METRO STATION

A magical after-dark adventure.

Pantomimes

Festive Events

New Year’s Eve

Delicious food and local gifts.

Festive Performances

Enchanted Parks

Look out, he’s behind you!

Get into the Christmas spirit.

Ring in the New Year in style.

NEAREST QUAYLINK STOP £ CHARGES APPLY

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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

36 LIME STREET

25 & 26 November | 10am – 5pm www.ouseburnopenstudios.org Head to Ouseburn for a weekend of behind the scenes access to over 200 artist studios. Buy directly from artists and independent galleries, watch demonstrations, join in yourself and relax with food, drinks and music as the cultural quarter of the city bustles with activity. COBALT cobaltstudios.co.uk Come to Cobalt and explore our studios, arts venue, and other areas in development. There will be proper coffee, homemade food, a fully licensed bar, a program of music, DJ’s, silent films, riso prints for sale and arts workshops for kids and adults alike. In the evening fantastic ska/reggae/hip hop band King Porter Stomp are playing, this is ticketed separately. BISCUIT TIN facebook.com/The-Biscuit-Tin-Studios Come and meet the artists, makers and designers to find out what inspires them and maybe buy that unique Christmas gift. Visit the Life Class exhibition in the gallery which features the work of Biscuit Tin artists and friends, showing drawings, prints and paintings about that most enduring of subjects. Have a glass of wine and try your hand at drawing the figure yourself.

MUSHROOM WORKS mushroomworks.com Sneak peek preview: Friday 24 Nov 6-8pm Visit a range of artists, discover the techniques they use and discuss the passions that inspire their work. A wide variety of tempting, unique products will be on offer to peruse, purchase or commission. We will also be showcasing our ever popular 20cm x 20cm original artworks, all priced at an affordable £20. Refreshments available and there’s ample free parking on site. JIM EDWARDS STUDIO GALLERY jimedwardspaintings.com For his latest exhibition, You Are Here, Jim Edwards will be exploring the themes of Wayfinding; knowing where you are, where your desired location is, and knowing how to get there from your present location. Drop by and “if you buy anything from a greetings card to a painting” be entered into a raffle to win a framed limited edition print of your choice THE BISCUIT FACTORY thebiscuitfactory.com To celebrate our new contemporary craft space, the gallery will be full of artists and makers at work. Enjoy watching the processes and skills that go into making; from miniature realist painting and resin sculpture to pit fired raku pottery. With over 30 studios and 250 artists work in the gallery, reclaim your Christmas shopping experience and buy local and handmade this year. Head to our new café terrace with Ouseburn views for a pop up bar, hot toddies, street food and maybe a seasonal tune or two.

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36limestreet.co.uk Sneak peek preview: Friday 24 Nov 5-8pm  36 Lime Street is a quirky listed building designed by John Dobson. Meet over 40 makers and enjoy a festive atmosphere with gift ideas from paintings and prints to sculpture, jewellery, textiles, furniture and glass plus half-hourly piano performances. The gallery exhibition Drawn In will include new drawings of views from 36 Lime Street and Drawn Out enables visitors to engage with, draw and display views within the building. Plus purchase a covetable letterpress ticket, which feature prints of studio members’ work hand-printed by Hole Editions to raise money for the upkeep of the building and to be entered into a special raffle.

NORTHERN PRINT northernprint.org.uk Discover a world of printmaking at Northern Print. See artist Bridget Jones exhibition of unique prints or paper and textiles. Purchase handprinted gifts and original artworks to suit every pocket in our magical Christmas shop. Visit our working printmaking studio where you can see the presses in action, have a go at printing your own winter woodland wrapping paper and gift tags and talk to some of our studio artists about how they make their work.

1265 DEGREES NORTH www.1265degreesnorth.com Kiln Ouseburn showcases work from Jun Rhee ceramicist from South Korea, in the 1265 Degrees North exhibition exploring the vessel and the limits of what can be thrown on the potters wheel. There will also be the opportunity to make clay monsters in the studio and grab a bite to eat in the café. Kiln is a working ceramic studio where the public can see every part of the process. All exhibition pieces can be bought.

Find up to date news here: Twitter @OuseburnOpen www.facebook.com/OuseburnOpen for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 5

NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

ESTIVE SHOPPING NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD

With a great mix of independent boutiques, high-street favourites, designer brands and malls such as intu Metrocentre and Eldon Square, NewcastleGateshead is the perfect place for Christmas shoppers. From popular brands to luxury goods or quirky one-off pieces, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect gifts for friends and family.

BALTIC Shop Christmas Discount Weekend

Christmas at Fenwick Northumberland Street, Newcastle upon Tyne fenwick.co.uk 0191 232 5100

Sat 18 – Sun 19 Nov BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead Quays balticmill.com 0191 440 4947 BALTIC Shop’s Christmas Discount Weekend is back with a fantastic 15% discount. Get everything you need for your festive stockings from their fantastic collection of striking jewellery, stylish home accessories, children’s toys, artist gifts and stocking fillers galore. GATESHEAD INTERCHANGE BALTIC SQUARE

Christmas in Newcastle wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Fenwick. Each year the iconic department store unveils a beautiful Christmas window, with moving characters, a bespoke soundtrack and twinkling lights. The store also creates an incredible 12,000 square foot Christmas Department on the Second Floor for all your festive needs. MONUMENT THEATRE ROYAL

Intu Eldon Square Living North Christmas Fair Thurs 2 – Sun 5 Dec Exhibition Park, Newcastle upon Tyne livingnorth.com 0191 261 8944 Living North’s North East Christmas Fair has a fantastic new venue this year in the heart of the city, Newcastle’s iconic Exhibition Park – and it’s going to be the biggest, most exciting event yet. With artisan producers and gift retailers to the very best chefs and producers in the region, there is something for everyone this festive season.

Northumberland Street, Newcastle upon Tyne intu.co.uk/eldonsquare 0191 261 1891 Get all your Christmas shopping done in the heart of the city centre, with 130+ high street names, specialist shops and department stores, then visit the newly opened restaurant development, Grey’s Quarter, which has 20 new restaurants and a rooftop terrace overlooking Grey’s monument. MONUMENT THEATRE ROYAL

Intu Metrocentre Gateshead intu.co.uk/metrocentre 0191 493 0219 You’ll be sure to get everything you need for the festive season at Europe’s largest shopping and leisure complex, with 340 shops to choose from and free parking! After shopping, you can refuel at one of the 60+ restaurants, many based in the newly-extended Qube development.

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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

ESTIVE MARKETS The twinkling of the Christmas lights, the hustle and bustle, the smell of warm, comforting foods and mugs of fragrant mulled wine - there is no better place to soak up the festive atmosphere than at one of our regions many Christmas markets. Find foodie treats, handmade gifts and artsy offerings perfect for finding unique gifts and stocking fillers.

Festive Gift Fair

International Christmas Market

Sat 11 – Sun 12 Nov

Fri 17 Nov – Sun 10 Dec

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Nr Morpeth english-heritage.org.uk/belsay 01661 881636

Grey’s Monument, Newcastle upon Tyne

Beat the Christmas rush and enjoy a far more leisurely and pleasurable Christmas shopping experience at Belsay Hall with a great variety of specialist crafts and gifts on sale throughout the weekend.

Christmas Market as Auckland Castle

While the rest of the world are ticking iPods and Wii consoles off their list, you can get back to the cosy feeling of handmade foods and buying special one-off gifts for your family and friends. This market brings us gourmet ingredients and a very real taste of Europe. You can get a currywurst from Germany, waffles from Holland, paella from Spain and crêpes – both sweet and savoury – from France. MONUMENT THEATRE ROYAL

Fri 17 – Sun 19 Nov Auckland Castle, Market Place, Bishop Auckland Auklandcastle. org.uk/events 01388 743797 Set against the picturesque backdrop of Auckland Castle, more than 40 local food producers and artisan craftspeople will be laying out their stalls as the formal garden is transformed into a festive shopper’s haven.

Alnwick Garden Christmas Market Sat 18 – Sun 19 Nov Alnwick, Northumberland 01665 511350 alnwickgarden.com/christmas Fill your Christmas stockings with eclectic delights from around the region in the warmth of the beautiful marquee. All stall holders have been hand-picked by The Alnwick Garden and are sure to delight, plus you can enjoy seasonal singing and live music from talented local performers.

Christmas Fair at Beamish Hall Hotel

North Shields Victorian Christmas Market

Tues 29 Nov – Sat 24 Dec (£)

Sat 9 – Sun 10 Dec

Beamish Hall Hotel, County Durham beamish-hall.co.uk/somethingtodo 01207 233 733

Northumberland Square, North Shields victorianmarket.co.uk

A triple whammy of Christmas shopping across the whole weekend with over 80 stalls taking over the hall to display and sell their wares. Don’t forget to book your festive afternoon tea in advance at The Eden Tearooms or lunch at The Stables as both will be fully booked prior to the event.

Browse over 100 stalls offering a wide variety of festive goods, including gifts, crafts and food – all with a Victorian twist. There will also be entertainment, music and a small fairground for children. NORTH SHIELDS

Christmas Market at Monument Mon 11 – Sun 17 Dec

Sage Gateshead’s Christmas Cracker

Grey’s Monument, Newcastle upon Tyne

Sat 2 Dec Sage Gateshead, Gateshead Quays sagegateshead.com +44 (0)191 443 4661 A weekend of festive fun for all the family with food, craft and gift stalls, live music, plus Santa’s Grotto and children’s activities. Set across two iconic venues, around 50 craft and local produce stalls will help get your Christmas shopping off to a seasonal start. GATESHEAD SAGE GATESHEAD

This market welcomes stall holders from closer to home. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and pick up some locally brewed beers, homemade jams, delicious cakes and handmade chocolates. You’ll also find special gifts such as scarves, leather bags, pottery, woolly hats and handmade jewellery. MONUMENT THEATRE ROYAL

Gateshead Christmas Village Fri 24 – Sun 26 Dec Gateshead International Stadium, Gateshead nemarkets.com/events/gatesheadchristmas-village 07919 412915 Visitors can also look forward to family entertainment, carol singing, mulled wine, hot chestnuts, mince pies and of course plenty of stands and a large marquee. There will also be a children’s fairground on-site and Santa will be in his grotto to ensure youngsters get their Christmas wish lists to him on time. GATESHEAD STADIUM

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For original gift ideas... The Biscuit Factory is an independent art gallery, located a five minute drive from the centre of Newcastle. Housed in a Victorian warehouse, we show over 250 artists with exhibitions of fine art and sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery and homewares. With prices starting from Â£20 and an interest free purchase scheme, buying original and one-off gifts this Christmas is affordable and simple.

FREE ENTRY | OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FREE PARKING | CAFE & RESTAURANT SHOP ONLINE STODDART STREET NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE NE2 1AN

0191 261 1103 art@thebiscuitfactory.com twitter.com/Biscuit_Factory

FRI 17 NOV - SUN 10 DEC GREY STREET & GRAINGER STREET OPENS FRI 17 NOV Mon - Sat: 9am - 8pm (Thurs until 9pm) Sun: 10am - 5pm

Monday - Friday 10 - 5 Saturday 10 - 6 Sunday 11 - 5

www.marketplaceeurope.co.uk

WWW.THEBISCUITFACTORY.COM

NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

ESTIVE PERFORMANCES From candlelit carols and cult Christmas movie screenings, to a whimsical production of Alice and Wonderland and a dance performance of The Little Match Girl, there are plenty of performances to choose from this winter. Take your pick from the huge range of music, theatre, dance, comedy and films on offer. But don’t get left out in the cold – these tickets sell out fast, so get booking!

Home Alone Live with Royal Northern Sinfonia

The Sixteen: Glory to the Christ Child

Sun 3 Dec (£)

Fri 8 Dec (£)

Sage Gateshead, Gateshead Quays sagegateshead.com 0191 443 4661

See cult Christmas movie Home Alone on the big screen, with John Williams’ Academy Awardnominated score performed live by Royal Northern Sinfonia. Merry Christmas ya filthy animals!

One of the world’s great choirs, The Sixteen are familiar to many as ‘The Voices of Classic FM’. Their annual Christmas pilgrimage touring the UK’s finest cathedrals sells out year after year, and it is a privilege to welcome them to Sage Gateshead with a programme including Poulenc’s Christmas Motets and other festive choral works from the 16th century to the present day.

GATESHEAD INTERCHANGE SAGE GATESHEAD

Victorian Festive Music Sat 9 – Sun 10 Dec (£)

Christmas at the Cathedral

The Little Match Girl

Thurs 15 Dec (£)

Thurs 30 Nov – Sun 3 Dec (£)

St Nicholas’ Cathedral, Newcastle upon Tyne theatreroyal.co.uk 08448 11 21 21

Dance City, Temple Street, Newcastle upon Tyne dancecity.co.uk 0191 261 0505

A spectacular seasonal celebration in the beautiful surroundings of Newcastle’s Cathedral, featuring North East comedians, singers and actors plus special guests in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. CENTRAL STATION GREY STREET

A snowy stage sets the scene for an icy Christmas Eve where the Little Match Girl paces the emptying streets, shivering and desperate, trying to sell her matches. Cold, hungry and with just one final match flame to keep her warm, she sees a vision of her beloved grandmother, who guides her on a journey through the night sky to the moon, leaving her troubled life behind. CENTRAL STATION CENTRAL STATION

GATESHEAD INTERCHANGE SAGE GATESHEAD

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Nr Morpeth english-heritage.org.uk/belsay 01661 881636

It’s a Wonderful Life

On Christmas Day 1817 the Middleton Family moved into the brand-new Belsay Hall. 200 years on we’re celebrating that special anniversary. Join Victorian musicians for a jolly Christmas sing-a-long in Belsay’s library.

Tyneside Cinema, Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne tynesidecinema.co.uk 0191 227 5500

Sun 3 – Tues 19 Dec (£)

The essential Christmas film treat for the whole family returns to the Tyneside Cinema. You can even make your film experience more festive by booking a special mulled wine and mince pie ticket. MONUMENT THEATRE ROYAL

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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

ESTIVE PERFORMANCES Alice in Wonderland Sat 25 Nov – Sat 6 Jan 2018 (£) Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne northernstage.co.uk 0191 230 5151 On a whirlwind adventure, courageous Alice meets the argumentative Tweedledee and Tweedledum, joins the Mad Hatter’s chaotic tea party and dashes from the Jabberwocky’s claws that catch. With the White Rabbit as her side-kick, can Alice escape the Red Queen’s cries of ‘off with her head!’ and make it home to her mum in time for tea? HAYMARKET HAYMARKET

Mixtape: Christmas Thurs 14 – Sat 16 Dec (£) Live Theatre, Broad Chare, Newcastle upon Tyne live.org.uk 0191 232 1232 One for the grown-ups, Mixtape bring you a special Christmas edition of their hilarious bite-sized comedy inspired by music, which will include a whole host of festive tunes. Christmas fancy dress is encouraged. CENTRAL STATION / MONUMENT (10 MINUTE WALK) LAW COURTS

The Terminal Velocity of Snowflakes Wed 22 – Sat 16 Dec (£) Live Theatre, Broad Chare, Newcastle upon Tyne live.org.uk 0191 232 1232 From youth to old age, from Trafalgar Square to Chillingham Road, The Terminal Velocity of Snowflakes takes a touching look at what it means to grow up, fall in love and how the tiniest, most seemingly insignificant detail can change eternity. Or then again maybe not. A play about fate, friendship and snowflakes. CENTRAL STATION / MONUMENT (10 MINUTE WALK) LAW COURTS

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor® Dreamcoat Tues 19 – Sun 31 Dec (£) Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle upon Tyne metroradioarena.co.uk 0844 493 6666 Joe McElderry returns home this Christmas in his celebrated and critically acclaimed role. In this vibrant and exciting retelling of the biblical story about Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours sings out to young and old alike with a score which is crammed wall to wall with hits, including Jacob and Sons, Close Every Door and Any Dream Will Do.

Me…

Bollywood Jazz

Tues 5 – Sat 23 Dec (£)

Thurs 7 Dec (£)

Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne northernstage.co.uk 0191 230 5151

Sage Gateshead, Gateshead Quays sagegateshead.com 0191 443 4661

The world is a very big place, especially for a tiny baby penguin who is just finding his feet. This early year’s favourite is a lovely and touching story about a parent and their love for their child by popular children’s author Emma Dodd.

An amazing new Indo-Jazz music fusion event inspired by the songs and instrumental music of Bollywood films. Presented by GemArts and Sage Gateshead. GATESHEAD INTERCHANGE SAGE GATESHEAD

HAYMARKET HAYMARKET

The Demon Barbers: The Lock In ‘Christmas Carol’ Sat 16 Dec (£) Sage Gateshead, Gateshead Quays sagegateshead.com 0191 443 4661 It’s Christmas Eve and the regulars of The Olde Fighting Cocks are excited about the night ahead, it’s going to be the Folk & Hip Hop dance party of the year! Half gig, half dance show and half panto! Join the BBC Award Winning team of musicians & dancers for 150% of the very best festive live music, song and dance! GATESHEAD INTERCHANGE SAGE GATESHEAD

CENTRAL STATION CENTRAL STATION

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TOURING FROM

come home and join the party this christmas

THE GUARDIAN

9 September 2017 - 14 January 2018

Admission charges apply

www.laingartgallery.org.uk

Christmas with the Rat Pack Wednesday 29 November Monday 4 December

Ward Thomas

Thursday 7 December

come home for christmas

ar’s ew ye

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eve 2

To find out more about our full festive programme, visit www.sagegateshead.com or call 0191 443 4661

Whitney Queen of the Night Friday 15 December

Roy Wood Rock & Roll Band Monday 18 December

Plus many more festive treats

TIMEOUT LONDON

PAUL NASH

party season highlights:

Christmas with the Overtones

THE TIMES

Candi Staton & House Sunday 31 December

Gospel Choir

from 8.30pm

The exhibition is organised by Tate Britain in association with the Laing Art Gallery and the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts. Landscape from a Dream by Paul Nash © Tate, London 2015. Photograph © Tate, London 2016

/sagegateshead @Sage_Gateshead

Come and experience the Spirit of Christmas at Newcastle Catherdral An oasis of calm in the heart of our busy city... Candlelit Carols in the Castle Keep with the Cathedral Choir Dec 15th and 16th See our website for full details of our concerts, carol services and special Christmas Eucharist celebrations www.stnicholascathedral.co.uk

Newcastle upon Tyne

NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

NewcastleGateshead Initiative and Gateshead Council’s popular after-dark arts adventure in the atmospheric setting of Saltwell Park is making a welcome return this festive season. The annual event sees specially commissioned artists transform Gateshead’s Saltwell Park into a magical and mythical wonderland of lights, colour, performance and sound. Entitled The Inventors’ Ball, this season’s Enchanted Parks tells the captivating, fictional, story of Ursula Wailes – the eldest daughter of William Wailes and heiress to the Saltwell Towers Estate, who makes a gift of Saltwell Park to the people of Gateshead:

After filling the park with incredible inventions, plants from all over the world and wonderful creatures, Ursula captures the imagination of children and adults alike; many reporting that the park itself feels ‘alive’. Unfortunately, her magical and generous donation is thrown back in her face in a most unfair manner. Legend has it that the young heiress locked up the park in response to this betrayal and it has remained closed forever since.

Developed and delivered by

In partnership with

Funded by

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Creative Producer

Now in 2017, residents report strange noises in the park and those houses nearby, with young people in the family, receive a mysterious invitation. ‘To the generation of optimists: You are cordially invited to The Inventors’ Ball in Saltwell Park’. It is simply signed, UW.

Vikki Leaney, who has been Events Manager for Enchanted Parks for 9 years, said: “Enchanted Parks is a fantastic opportunity for thousands of local people and visitors alike to experience wonderful artistic ideas and creations – guaranteed to spark the imagination and get you in the festive mood! We have a brand new creative team on board this year, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience in creating exciting and stimulating events – and we can’t wait to see their creative vision come alive this winter with a very special and magical event.” The artists Enchanted Parks commissions and presents professional pieces of site-specific outdoor artwork in Saltwell Park, the vast majority commissioned especially for the event. Visitors can expect to be immersed in an interactive art trail of light shows along with live action and audio-visual experiences, which will leave you awed and intrigued. Important information – Please note Enchanted Parks is a ticketed event. No tickets will be available on the gate. – This is an outdoor evening event, so please wear suitable clothing and footwear. Due to the nature of the event and the time of year, some paths may be uneven and there may be darker areas of the park. – Enchanted Parks is suitable for all ages and is wheelchair accessible. – We strongly recommend the use of public transport to get to Enchanted Parks. There are excellent links from Gateshead town centre and Newcastle city centre. Please check the website for details. – There is limited parking onsite at the Joicey Road car park (£4 per car). Priority will be given to Blue Badge holders. – Please check the website for up to date information about this event EnchantedParks.com

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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

ANTOMIMES A firm British tradition and family favourite, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without an old fashioned panto – so take your pick from some of our region’s best and prepare for a night of slapstick, song and silliness - ‘oh, yes you will!’

Peter Pan

Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs

Tues 28 Nov – Sun 21 Jan 2018 (£)

Fri 8 – Sun 31 Dec (£)

Theatre Royal, Grey Street, Newcastle upon Tyne theatreroyal.co.uk 08448 11 21 21

Tyne Theatre and Opera House, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk 0844 2491 000

Hook your seats early for the North East’s biggest and most spectacular pantomime and join the record-breaking trio of Clive, Danny & Chris for an unmissable adventure to Neverland! MONUMENT THEATRE ROYAL

Jack and the Beanstalk

Join us for the most magical pantomime ever told, where poor Snow White is doomed to live UN-happily ever after with her horrid stepmother the Wicked Queen. In a true rags to riches story Snow White manages, with the help of her madcap friend Muddles, to meet a handsome Prince and make all her dreams come true. CENTRAL STATION CENTRAL STATION

Fri 15 – Sun 7 Jan 2018 (£) Sunderland Empire, High Street West, Sunderland atgtickets.com/venues/sunderland-empire 0844 871 3022 With stunning costumes and sets, hilarious song and dance routines, plus more jokes than a bag full of magic beans, let’s hope our hero Jack lives happily ever after with the beautiful princess – or will a beastly giant stop him in his tracks? PARK LANE / SUNDERLAND

Cinderella

The Lambton Worm

Saturday 2 Dec – Sun 7 Jan 2018 (£)

Tues 28 Nov – Sat 6 Jan 2018 (£)

Playhouse Whitley Bay, Marine Avenue, Whitley Bay playhousewhitleybay.co.uk 0844 248 1588

The Customs House, Mill Dam, South Shields customshouse.co.uk 0191 454 1234

Welcome to the world of fairytales, where poor Cinderella is doomed to live unhappily ever after with her two horrible Ugly Sisters. Watch with amazement as her pumpkin and white mice are transformed into a beautiful coach and horses in this true rags to riches story, but will Cinderella remember to leave the ball before midnight? MONKSEATON (15 MINUTE WALK)

The Little Panto with the Big Heart is back with an all new fun-filled adventure based on the famous tale of The Lambton Worm! SOUTH SHIELDS

Jack and the Beanstalk Mon 11 – Sat 30 Dec (£) Pantodrome, Times Square Newcastle Upon Tyne timessquarepanto.com 0333 666 33 66 An enchanting tale of rags to riches, fearsome giants, castles in the clouds and the odd golden egg thrown in for good measure, Jack and the beanstalk will dazzle north east audiences with larger than life sets, costumes and plenty of panto magic. CENTRAL STATION CENTRAL STATION

The Suggestibles Impro Pantso Sat 16 & Wed 21 Dec (£) Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne northernstage.co.uk 0191 230 5151 It’s a Panto, but not as you know it! There’s No Script (eek!), No Score (what?) and No Kids (oh yes there is!) – well, only of the naughty big variety. Your suggestions inspire the hilarious characters, ingenious songs, and all the unexpected twists and turns in this entirely improvised Christmas cracker of a show. Be prepared for an off-the-wall epic tale of good versus evil on our Wonderland stage, to roll into the aisles laughing and to raise the roof singing. HAYMARKET HAYMARKET

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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

Christmas with the

ATIONAL TRUST We all love that festive feeling in the run up to Christmas and National Trust places in the North East are bursting with yuletide cheer to get you right into the spirit this November and December.

Festive days out

Events with added sparkle

A trip to Wallington in December promises a special festive atmosphere. There’s decorations, music, cosy fires, festive food, crafts and a chance to get the perfect family pic on the sleigh pulled by willow reindeer outside the house. You can also find willow reindeer at Gibside, as well as lots of other hidden surprises decorating the great outdoors.

Christmas markets and fairs Various, from 18 November – 16 December Souter Lighthouse and Gibside Whether it’s that hard-to find gift or an indulgent festive treat for yourself, pick up something different at a craft and food market.

Seaton Delaval Hall have a whole host of celebrations in December, just like the fun loving Delaval family used to. Music, mince pies and mulled wine are on offer, with decorations and lights twinkling as the backdrop – an ideal festive day out, especially on Christmas Eve when you need to escape the chaos.

Father Christmas Visiting Father Christmas is magical for little ones. Even more so when his grotto is somewhere a little different like a cosy cottage at Gibside, the wildlife garden at Souter Lighthouse, the tea house at Seaton Delaval Hall, or the house at Wallington. For something truly unique you can meet the Green Man at Washington Old Hall. You can see the big man on selected days leading up to Christmas but remember to book up early as he’s very popular. To book please call Gibside on 01207 541820, Wallington on 01670 773606, Souter Lighthouse on 0191 529316, Seaton Delaval Hall on 0191 237 9100 or Washington Old Hall on 0191 4166 879.

Create Christmas at Wallington 18 and 19 November Wallington Get a sneaky peek behind the scenes of the house before it officially opens for Christmas and help the team make decorations to complete the look. Get crafty: Souter stockings 25 and 26 November Souter Lighthouse & The Leas Design your very own Christmas stocking to hang out on Christmas Eve. Make a wreath or garland Various, from 2 to 14 December Seaton Delaval Hall, Wallington, Washington Old Hall, Cherryburn and Gibside Decorate your home with your own handiwork. Book up for a few hours of festive creativity and be guided through making your own traditional decoration. Christmas carols Various, from 2 to 20 December Seaton Delaval Hall and Gibside If festive music gets you in the spirit, choose from carols by candlelight in Gibside Chapel or live music and local choirs at Seaton Delaval Hall.

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Festive Family fun 3, 4, 9, 10, 16 and 17 December Cragside Enjoy different family crafts and activities on weekends counting down to Christmas. Mince pies and mulled wine wander 9 December Durham Coast Join a ranger for a 2.5 mile walk along the beach from Nose’s Point to Hawthorn Hive and stop for mince pies and mulled wine along the cliff tops. New Year’s Eve 31 December Seaton Delaval Hall Get outdoors and join the New Year’s Party, with treats in the café and crafts for kids. Walking in a winter wonderland November and December Wallington, Seaton Delaval Hall and Gibside Sometimes you just need to escape with a crisp winter walk. Lots of National Trust places are open between Christmas and New Year too, with walks that are perfect for burning off the turkey and blowing away the cobwebs.

When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust your support helps to look after special places in the North East for ever, for everyone. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/northeast for more inspiration this festive season.

Like us at www.facebook.com/northeastnt Follow us @NorthEastNT Image credits: ©National Trust Images/John Millar The National Trust is a registered charity no.205846.

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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

ESTIVE EVENTS Christmas is a magical time in NewcastleGateshead and there is an abundance of festive events and activities for all ages – perfect for keeping everyone busy as elves and creating your own magical memories.

Kielder Winter Wonderland Weekends: Sat 18 Nov – Wed 20 Dec (£) Kielder Water & Forest Park, Northumberland kielderwinterwonderland.com Your adventure begins when you follow the Winter Wonderland star which leads you to the enchanted magical forest where a special surprise awaits. Discover Father Christmas, Mrs Christmas and their festive friends. There’s a whole host of wonderful activities throughout the day for you to share with your family and friends. This event is always a sell-out – check availability on the website.

Santa Specials at Stephenson Railway Museum Weekends: Sat 2 – Sat 23 Dec (£) Middle Engine Lane, North Shields stephensonrailwaymuseum.org.uk 0191 200 7146

Santa’s Sunday Lunch

Santa Cruise

Sun 10, 17, 24 Dec (£)

Weekends Sat 2 – Sun 17 Dec / Fri 22 – Sun 23 Dec (£)

Beamish Museum, County Durham beamish.org.uk 0191 370 4000 Enjoy Sunday lunch with a visit from the much loved Santa. Entertainment including balloon modelling, face painting and a magic show to finish!

River Escapes, Newcastle Quayside riverescapes.co.uk 01670 785 666 Join Santa and his helpers aboard the Fortuna on a cruise down the River Tyne. Enjoy lots of family fun as the cruise takes you under the Gateshead Millennium Bridge and downriver as far as the river mouth, with activities for the kids, a disco, Christmas quiz plus mulled wine for the adults! CENTRAL STATION MILLENNIUM BRIDGE

Take a heritage train ride along a restored urban railway while keeping your eyes peeled to be the first to spot Santa who will make a special visit to the train to give out gifts to the lucky children on board. Once you step off the train, head back into the warm museum to receive complimentary drinks and sweet treats.

Santa’s Musical Grotto Various dates between Sat 2 - Sun 24 Dec (£) Sage Gateshead, Gateshead Quays sagegateshead.com 0191 443 4661 A fun, interactive, musical experience with Santa and his Elves, lasting up to 30 minutes, that will bring the magic to life for all believers from the ages of one upwards. GATESHEAD INTERCHANGE SAGE GATESHEAD

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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

ESTIVE EVENTS Skating @ Life

A Christmas Adventure!

Sat 11 Nov – Sun 18 Feb 2017 (£)

Various dates between Sat 2 – Sun 31 Dec (£)

Life Science Centre, Times Square, Newcastle upon Tyne life.org.uk 0191 243 8210

Seven Stories, Ouseburn, Newcastle upon Tyne sevenstories.org.uk 0300 330 1095

The perfect place for a spot of wintery fun with friends and family, skating at Life is a must on your winter check list! Make a day of it by visiting their Science Centre while you’re there (separate prices apply) – see Natural History Museum exhibition Dino Jaws, experience the 4D Motion Ride, their amazing planetarium, live theatre shows and a range of exciting hands-on zones. CENTRAL STATION CENTRAL STATION

Winter Wonderland Sat 23 – Sun 24 Dec (£) BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead Quays balticmill.com 0191 478 1810 Visit BALTIC this festive season on 23 and 24 December and create your own sculptural snowflakes with BALTIC artist, Helen Pailing. Encourage snowy skies with our Ice Elves and take home sparkly reindeer dust ready for Rudolph’s arrival. Recommended for ages 3-13. Accompanying adults go free.

Join the Jolly Christmas Postman on his festive rounds this Christmas as he delivers gifts to your favourite fairy tale characters! Packed with song, activities and laughter. Based on the book by Allan Ahlberg and Janet Ahlberg.

Christmas at Beamish

Enchanted Belsay

Sat 18 Nov – Sun 24 Dec (£)

Fri 15 – Sat 23 Dec

Beamish Museum, County Durham beamish.org.uk 0191 370 4000

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Nr Morpeth english-heritage.org.uk/belsay 01661 881636

Step back into Christmas past and join the celebrations as you explore 1820s Pockerley Old Hall, the 1900s Town and Pit Village and 1940s Farm. Visit Father Christmas in his magical Grotto, glide on the ice rink, ride a steam train, explore traditional stalls and enjoy some tasty festive food.

Make the most of the winter evenings with family and friends this Christmas time as you explore the grounds of Belsay Hall after dark. Wrap up warm and head out on an adventure through a topsy-turvy wonderland of light, colour and sound.

MANORS (15 MINUTE WALK) LIME STREET

The Snow Lion Sat 2 - Sun 3 Dec (£) The Alnwick Garden, Northumberland alnwickgarden.com 01665 511350 From the Forests of Eternal Snow pads the giant white lion, a mythical emblem of the season celebrating the light of human kindness in the depths of winter’s darkest days. Accompanied by the White Queen and her servant, the lion offers protection to this powerful female. Come forth and witness the mystery and majesty of the largest lion to walk the earth, be certain to step forward for a photo with these magical characters.

GATESHEAD INTERCHANGE BALTIC SQUARE

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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

ESTIVE EVENTS Newcastle Christmas Lights Switch On

Winter Warmer Wander – Doon the Quay

Tues 15 Nov

Thurs 29 Dec (£)

Grey Street, Newcastle upon Tyne

Guildhall, Sandhill, Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne newcastlecityguides.org.uk

Don’t miss this popular Christmas lights switch on, lighting up Newcastle City Centre to celebrate the festive period. MONUMENT THEATRE ROYAL

Christmas Lights Switch on at Trinity Square Thurs 23 Nov Trinity Square, Gateshead trinitysquaregateshead.co.uk 0191 500 7050 Enjoy music and entertainment as the centre of Gateshead is illuminated at Trinity Square. GATESHEAD INTERCHANGE GATESHEAD INTERCHANGE

Blow your own Christmas Bauble Wednesdays and Weekends throughout Nov / Dec (£) National Glass Centre, Liberty Way, Sunderland nationalglasscentre.com 0191 568 9700

Blow away the Christmas cobwebs on this informal walk with Newcastle City Guides and enjoy a short tour along Newcastle and Gateshead’s historic riverside, finishing at St Mary’s Heritage Centre with a warming tea or coffee and mince pies. No need to pre-book, just meet at 11am on the day! CENTRAL STATION QUAYSIDE

Christmas Afternoon Tea at the Movies Wed 6, 13 & 20 Dec (£) Beamish Hall, County Durham beamish-hall.co.uk 01207 233733 Get in the festive spirit with afternoon tea at the movies. A glass of fizz will greet you upon arrival, before indulging in your afternoon tea followed by a large screen showing of a classic Christmas movie, including It’s a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street or White Christmas.

Start a new family tradition and create your own unique glass bauble to hang on your Christmas tree or to give as the perfect handmade gift. Use a variety of coloured glass to personalise your design before blowing down the ‘iron’ to see your bauble come to life! ST PETER’S

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A PRO P NYE P ER ARTY FOR T HOSE OLD ENOU GH TO KN OW B ET TER BOILER 20 SOU SHOP TH STR EET NEWC ASTLE

L SOU K FUN O DISC E R & MO

DJ SEAN ROWLEY - MORE TBA -

CMY

A Season of Love, Laughter and Light Visit Father Christmas Weekends 18th Nov to 10th Dec | 10:00 - 5:30pm Weekends 16, 17, & 23rd Dec | 10:00 - 7:30pm Weekdays 11th to 21st Dec | 4:00 - 7:30pm 22nd Dec | 10:00 - 5:30pm 24th Dec | 10:00 - 2:30pm Â£15 per child. Normal admission applies to accompaning adults.

Christmas market 18, 19, 25, & 26th Nov | 10.00 - 6.00pm 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 & 17th Dec | 10.00 - 6.00pm Browse gifts from around the region & indulge in festive nibbles & live caroling.

sakting rink 18th Nov - 7th Jan 10am - 6pm Skate around on our picturesque skating rink while you take in the beautiful view of our Grand Cascade. Booking is essential Please note this is a synthetic rink

www.alnwickgarden.com/christmas The Alnwick GArden, denwick lAne, Alnwick, norThumberlAnd, ne66 1Yu

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NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 17

New Year’s Eve

ELEBRATIONS

In the days counting down to the end of 2017, local people who pass through Exhibition Park and onto the Moor may notice a thicket of thorny brambles and the shapes of strange animals painted in the undergrowth as the monstrous lair appears and begins to grow in size as we approach New Year’s Eve. This year, NewcastleGateshead Initiative and Newcastle City Council are collaborating with outdoor arts company Walk the Plank to present an exciting, beastly bonfire and breath-taking firework display on the Town Moor.

New Year’s Eve is changing Approximate timings The event space will be open from 4pm for visitors to gather and enjoy the fun fair and entertainment from Heart radio. The main performance will begin at 5pm and will include the lighting of the theatrical bonfire and culminate with fireworks by 6pm. All timings are approximate and subject to change.

East of the Sun, West of the Moon takes inspiration from Norse mythology and local folklore. A bonfire uncannily resembling a giant beast’s lair will form the centrepiece to the evening’s theatrics before culminating in a firework finale.

Tickets East of the Sun, West of the Moon is a free event but will be ticketed. Tickets will be allocated using a ballot system, and you can apply to be included in the draw at www.NewcastleGateshead.com/NYE

This family-friendly early evening celebration will also feature a range of fun fair entertainment and food and drink concessions to keep everyone entertained prior to the main event.

All applicants will hear the outcome of their ballot entry in the first week of December 2017. To follow the event and keep up to date follow NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival on Facebook and Twitter.

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