Primary Times in Surrey - CHRISTMAS 2021

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INSIDE Surrey

04 EDUCATION 08 SCOOP 12 FEATURES 14 W.O.W. 20 BOX OFFICE

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through Infant and Junior Schools throughout Surrey. It is also available by subscription at £50 per year. Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. 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 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 the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2,672,883 copies per issue throughout the counties of: Avon, Bedfordshire & Luton, Berkshire, Birmingham & Black Country, Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes, Cambridgeshire, Cardiff & The Vale, South West Wales, Newport & Monmouthshire, Cheshire & The Wirral, Cornwall, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Devon, Dorset, Edinburgh & The Lothians, Fife, Tayside & Central Scotland, Glasgow & West of Scotland, Essex (North & Mid, South & West), Gloucestershire, Greater Manchester, Hampshire, Hereford & Worcester, Hertfordshire, Ireland (Dublin, Leinster, South and West), Kent (East, North & West), Lancashire, Leicestershire & Rutland, Lincolnshire, London (East, North, South East, South West, South, West), Merseyside, Newcastle, Gateshead and Northumberland, Newport & Monmouthshire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Plymouth, Somerset, Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent, Sunderland & Durham, Surrey, Sussex (East & West), Tees Valley, Warwickshire and Solihull, Wiltshire, Yorkshire (North & East, South and West). For further details contact The Primary Times Team on 01905 723011.

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Christmas 2021 SALES JO WILLIAMS 01905 727902 jo@pw-media.co.uk

PRODUCTION DAWN PARDOE dawn@pw-media.co.uk

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Surrey

EDUCATION ALL THE NEWS FROM YOUR LOCAL SCHOOLS

Manor House School, Centenary Picnic & Garden Party Saturday 11th September 2021

again”. Cherry Trees, another local charity who provide short breaks for children and young adults with complex disabilities, hosted their own stall selling beautifully hand made gifts.

The afternoon of live music was kicked off by three of the school’s senior girls, Beth and Emily and Asha, who sang and played the guitar, Director of Music Mrs Harman performed songs from the 40s including “Cheek to Cheek” and “A Sentimental Journey”, and Manor House School’s groundsman Rob Smith and his singing partner Bill Boyse, known as “The Decades”, headlined with a number of rousing songs to end the day’s celebrations.

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I know that lady, excuse me a moment!” might have been the most overhead comment during Manor House School’s Centenary Picnic this past September, as teams of old girls and staff spotted each other across the front lawn and embarked on an afternoon of reminiscing.

The event, re-scheduled from last September, brought together school families, alumnae, local residents, community groups and Heritage Open day visitors, all in the name of marking 100 years of Manor House School.

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Amongst the many visitors, Mrs Joan Findlay, Headmistress between 1985 and 1989, settled down to her picnic with another three generations of her family, her daughter Ailsa was a parent governor, her daughter Fritha belongs to the class of 1995, and Fritha’s baby daughter, quietly enjoying the hubbub from her comfort of her pushchair. Fritha and her partner Olaf had not been sure that they would make it to the event, having recently completed their self build home in Sussex, the subject of a Grand Designs episode in its current series on Channel 4.

Meanwhile, in the main house, a guided tour for a group 1966 leavers produced complaints that the walls had moved since they were last at Manor House!

They had been most keen to revisit their boarding rooms and stories of games and pranks came flooding back as they moved through the upper floors.

Over in the Food Court, the Great Bookham Belles WI were on hand to provide teas, coffees and cakes in exchange for donations towards their chosen local charities, reflecting “it’s good to be able to start fundraising for our causes

Bringing an event of this size together is always a team effort and friends of the school gave their time generously including Dan Smith from DS lighting (@ dslighting952) who was on hand to help with lighting and sound for the day’s performers.

Despite the village of Bookham being a hive of activity with other events taking place on the same day, Manor House School was thrilled to welcome just under 800 visitors on the day, a fitting celebration for a momentous birthday. Here’s to the next 100 years!

Manor House School is an independent girls’ school (2-16 years) in Bookham, Surrey. Est. in 1920. ‘To Love is to Live.’ primarytimes.co.uk/surrey

Surrey

Learning in the Forest F

orest School lessons enhance all aspects of the national curriculum while allowing children to develop their own sense of adventure, taking responsibility for their own choices and learning.

Attending Forest School gives children a cherished love of the outdoors, a sense of awe and wonder and hopefully a respect for nature that will last a lifetime. Climate change has shown the need for us all to be aware of and to take ethical responsibility for the planet, not just now but into the future.

At Barrow Hills, we are lucky to have a designated Pre-Prep Forest School area, set in the school’s impressive 33-acre grounds, allowing even the youngest children to explore independently within safe, unmarked boundaries.

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We recognise the importance of getting out of the classroom and escaping the pull of the screen. Every child is given the opportunity to attend at least one Forest School lesson per week, led by our fully qualified Forest School Leader, Nikki Wilson. The children, dressed in appropriate clothing, are taken out throughout the year in all types of weather. As Wainwright famously said, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing”.

communication skills. Leading to resilience in risk taking and a ‘can do’ attitude.

One of the greatest attractions of Forest School is that, unlike timetabled lessons, plans can be adapted to suit the mood or conditions. The children can, to a degree, influence the activities, all of which offer subliminal learning, which will

prepare them for the world beyond their Prep school.

We welcome families to visit throughout the year at Open Mornings and for private tours.

Our upcoming Music and Storytime Morning for preschool aged children will take place on 25th February with sessions from 9.30 to 11am.

When asked about Forest School, the children enthuse, “we splash in puddles, build dams in the rain, catch snowflakes on our tongues and feel the wind against our faces!”

At Barrow Hills we aim to provide real life opportunities to create independent learners, to nurture self esteem and enhance

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Learn to Swim Properly with Angela’s Swim School

Developing Potential for Life S

t. Andrew’s School was founded in 1937 and is a respected and thriving co-educational Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School, set in 11 acres of grounds near Woking town centre. St. Andrew’s creates a nurturing and happy environment in which all pupils are encouraged and enabled to develop their potential to the full.

Make room for swimming in your life. It’s the essential water safety life skill that’s highly inclusive and gives a total body workout, building muscle tone and improving breathing and circulation.

Angela’s Swim School offers lessons to children from 4 months old, plus adult classes for all abilities.

Learning to swim from a young age really helps children build in confidence, strength and stamina.

To help children learn to swim the right way, Angela’s Swim School has developed the Swimstylers, who are at the heart of the school’s teaching programme. These inspirational characters break down how to become a strong, independent swimmer into clearly defined targets, which step-bystep show children how to progress their swimming with confidence and strong technique.

The six Swimstylers characters feature on class names and awards so charting progress is really easy - that’s from non-swimmers up to a 1500m swim.

The swim school’s founder swam competitively at the highest levels. Angela’s insight and winning techniques have been the basis of her swim teaching career for over 25 years and made Angela’s Swim School a major provider of lessons in the Southeast, with pools nearby in Cobham and E ast Horsley.

Give them the gift of swimming today. Join Angela’s Swim School. Visit www.angelasswimschool.co.uk for more information.

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At St. Andrew’s children feel secure and confident and are highly motivated to perform to the best of their ability in all aspects of school life.

Children are prepared for entrance and scholarship exams to a wide range of independent senior schools and there are specialist teaching facilities for all subjects including science, ICT, music, food technology and art. The curriculum is broad and the school places great emphasis on music, sport and the arts. In our latest ISI Inspection, (January 2016), we were extremely proud to be rated ‘excellent’ in all areas.

St. Andrew’s has excellent on-site facilities and our latest building development project has provided us with a fantastic tiered seating theatre, food technology room, library, changing rooms and classrooms. Our impressive outdoor facilities include an all weather sports surface, sports pitches, tennis courts, cricket nets and a swimming pool.

Don’t just take our word for it, come and visit the school to see for yourself! We have three open days, one per term, but you are also welcome to visit the school at other times. We currently have scholarship opportunities available for September 2022. See our website for further details: www.st-andrews.woking.sch.uk

MagiKats puts the fun into learning!

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elping children develop confidence and skills in core subjects is something MagiKats Maths and English has been successfully doing across the UK for almost 20 years. We are discovering, as students are settling back into school, that our individual approach is desperately needed to help every student achieve their full potential.

All students in primary and secondary school are welcome to experience the MagiKats effect, which offers individually designed programmes and support for students of all abilities. Students attend weekly workshops where they can extend their knowledge, consolidate skills or get extra help.

Our workshops are the heart of the MagiKats programme and are planned to give each individual the maximum benefit through a range of approaches, including written and practical activities. Workshops are supported with the development of core skills.

Our friendly learning environment promotes confidence and a love of learning. Students work individually or in small groups, with 1-2-1 support when needed. Topics are grouped to support the school curriculum.

It’s not just about maths and English though!

Our Reasoning programme helps students not only prepare for 11+, grammar school or private school exams, but helps any student improve their ability to apply learning to other areas of their life.

Whether studying English or maths, all MagiKats students also work on thinking skills, problem-solving skills and social skills. We don’t just aim to improve a subject, we aim to help the whole child.

To find out more about MagiKats please visit www.magikats.co.uk or call 01483 667795.

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Looking for a real Christmas tree near you in Surrey or Hampshire?

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uy your real Christmas tree from Alice Holt Forest, near Farnham this year for a wonderful experience and the highest quality, sustainably-grown British Christmas trees.

From 25 November, 9am 5pm 7 days a week. Come and choose your real Christmas Tree from hundreds of potted and cut firs and spruce in the fresh, wintery air of the beautiful forest.

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Make a day of it and get in the festive mood whilst you visit. Why not take advantage of a hot takeaway drink or food from the cafe, enjoy the Gruffalo Spotters trail with the children (trail ends 19th December), or take a peaceful wintery walk around the forest.

Christmas purchase. The cafe is open from 10am - 4pm.

Contactless payments are encouraged along with bringing your own blanket or sheet for a more sustainable

Experience: Choose your tree from a beautiful forest location to kick off your Christmas celebrations.

What makes these Christmas trees so special?

Quality: High-quality trees are grown in Britain - so you can be proud of your superior quality tree

Expertise: Christmas tree experts can help you choose the right tree for your home

Support your forests: The money raised from your Christmas tree helps maintain the forests for wildlife, for you, and for future generations forestryeng.land/aliceholt-trees Facebook: aliceholtforest

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Surrey

Enjoy activities for all ages at Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village Our new temporary exhibition ‘Uncommon Power’: Lucy and Catherine Madox Brown explores the work of two creative women who grew up at the heart of the Pre-Raphaelite world.

NEWS BITES

location to catch up with friends over seasonal treats.

We look forward to seeing you soon! See our advert on page 15 for more information.

Visit Limnerslease, the recently reopened home of our founders, artists Mary and George Frederic Watts and see their studios.

In Print: Into the Night is a free exhibition in Watts Contemporary Gallery featuring contemporary printmakers who are inspired by the beauty of night-time.

Treat yourself and loved ones to unique and thoughtful presents from our Shop.

Families and Young People There’s plenty on offer for everyone: make decorative festive crafts, follow winter woodland trails, cosy up for fireside storytelling, and meet Father Christmas in Limnerslease.

The Tea Shop Housed in the original commercial centre for the Compton Potters’ Art Guild, this is an idyllic

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Animal Encounters

Merrist Wood College in Guildford offers a variety of animal encounters activities.

This festive season we are offering animal encounter gift vouchers for our popular events: Junior Keeper Days, Animal Encounter Tours and Meet the Meerkat Experience.

These vouchers can be purchased via our website www.merristwoodevents.co.uk

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Britain’s Christmas Singalong - It’s a new Christmas tradition!

Doorstep Carols is back this year – and with an ever-growing list of mega organisations jumping on board, it looks set to be Britain’s biggest ever carols singalong.

Carols on the doorstep brought people together in the midst of the pandemic last year. Broadcast on over 30 local radio stations, it led to wonderful scenes of families singing on doorsteps, sharing mulled wine over the fence with neighbours and children playing instruments in front gardens. An estimated 125,000 people took part, raising over £10,000 for MIND UK and local charities, with collections at street level.

This year, Doorstep Carols 2021 is a supercharged nationwide event, taking all of the street magic of last year across the country whilst also reaching out to those who are isolated. Around 25 local BBC radio stations and BBC Sounds will again broadcast the pre-recorded backing tracks to well-known carols and Christmas songs so that the nation can sing in unison. Streets taking part are encouraged to use the opportunity to raise money for a charity of their choice.

A host of national organisations and celebrities are jumping on board as this event grows, supporting the British public in what is expected to become a record-breaking singalong.

Internationally renowned British conductor Suzi Digby and Sir Tim Rice are also backing the event.

For more information visit www.doorstepcarols.co.uk and to find out how to tune in, download the words and music and sing along on December 15th at 6pm!

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Cough, Cold and COVID in Children – what to look out for and where to seek further help T

he NHS is seeing an increase in children with coughs, colds and COVID with further increases being expected in winter months. The website offers advice on when to keep your child off school in relation to COVID and COVID symptoms.

Paediatrician Dr Patrick Aldridge, from Frimley Park Hospital, said: “Most viral illnesses typically clear up within seven days, without the need for medical support.

For most children, treatment with paracetamol and/or ibuprofen, with sugary fluids when they’re not eating, are usually enough to help.

“I would encourage parents and carers to access the NHS Frimley Healthier Together

website for up-todate advice at their fingertips”.

The website provides advice and support from local healthcare professionals and paediatricians to help parents recognise what might be wrong.

Each illness has a traffic light system to help parents manage their child’s symptoms at home, with red flags for when they might need to seek more specialist help, from their GP, 111 or visit the emergency department.

For more information: frimley-healthiertogether.nhs.uk Facebook: @Frimley.healthiertogether Instagram: @Frimley.healthiertogether

Jack and the Beanstalk arrives at Guildford Spectrum

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uildford Spectrum celebrates the return of its annual ice pantomime this December with a performance of the well-loved fairy tale, Jack and the Beanstalk. The popular family attraction located on Stoke Park Guildford, will be transported to a winter wonderland this Christmas with fun filled festive shows running from Thursday 9th to Sunday 12th December.

The pantomime will feature performances by some of the regions rising skating stars, with the cast formed entirely of young talented skaters drawn from Spectrums acclaimed skating programme. The cast will recreate all the magic of the fairy tale, following young and daring Jack on an adventure of a lifetime to a place high up in the clouds where no one has been before!

What makes Spectrum’s ice pantomime so special is all those who take part in it. It is a real community event brought together by an incredible array of talent, lavish costumes, and sets. This year Spectrum has pulled out all the

stops, turning the Ice Rink into a theatre with sounds, lights, and effects which can be seen in the West End. Prepare to be amazed by flying jumps, dizzying spins and energetic dance routines that will be a visual extravaganza for all ages!

The show runs at 12.45pm and 6pm on Friday 10th December and 1pm and 5pm on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th December.

A preview performance runs at 6pm on Thursday 9th December. A wide range of food and refreshments will be available at every performance for everyone to enjoy. Tickets are available to book now, including tickets for families and groups. Customers can book online at guildfordspectrum.co.uk, or by calling the box office on 01483 443333.

Still one of the region’s best value Christmas shows, this adaptation of a classic story promises to have all the ingredients of a truly spectacular family treat, and one not to be missed! primarytimes.co.uk/surrey

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Surrey

Visit Santa’s Grotto at the Belfry Shopping Centre

Choir and the Renewed Hope Choir, whose volunteers will be at the Centre if you would like to make a monetary donation towards supporting East Surrey’s homeless, vulnerable and isolated.

Late night shopping Enjoy the Belfry’s spectacular Christmas lights and seasonal music while you shop for Christmas gifts and festive goodies with late night shopping until 6pm from 16th-18th December, and until 7pm from 20th-23rd.

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eet Santa and his friendly elves safely at the Belfry’s magical Winter Woodland Grotto this Christmas. Santa’s Grotto is open at weekends now, then every day from Saturday 11th December until Christmas Eve. Children receive a wrapped gift and you can purchase souvenir photographs.

Tickets are pre-booked online in advance.

Please visit www.redhillbelfry.co.uk/grottobooking-2021# for more information.

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Prize Elf Hunt!

For the chance to win £50 of Belfry shopping vouchers, join in the exciting elf hunt to find Santa’s elves hidden around shops at the Centre until Christmas Eve! Ding-dong merrily on high, in the Belfry choirs are singing! – Saturday 4th Dec On Saturday 4th December, the Belfry hosts a day of beautiful live Christmas music from Redhill’s amazing choirs, including the Rock Choir, Copthorne Prep Choir, St Matthews

Great parking!

Parking is just £1 for the first hour and £1 all day on Sunday at the Belfry’s awardwinning car park, with dedicated parking spaces for people with disabilities and shoppers with young children, ShopMobility services and free electric charging.

For Santa’s Grotto opening hours, booking information, and full store opening hours, visit www.redhillbelfry.co.uk Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The health and wellbeing of everyone who visits remains the Belfry’s highest priority and the Centre continues to make sure that the latest government COVID guidelines are followed.

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GLOW AT RHS GARDEN WISLEY

PHOTO BY JOANNA KOSSAK

UNTIL 04 JANUARY 2022 GLOW AT WISLEY 2021 RHS Wisley, Wisley , Woking GU23 6QB It’s time to Glow! See the garden sparkle this festive season and follow dazzling displays lighting a magical trail. www.rhs.org.uk/ gardens/wisley/whats-on/glow-at-wisley UNTIL 09 JANUARY 2022 SNOWSAURUS TRAIL AT PAINSHILL PARK Join us for a roarsome winter walk!

We look forward to welcoming you to our 2021 winter trail in the landscape. After our popular and well received Snowfari in 2020, this year will take you to a landscape full of dinosaurs – Snowsaurus! The magical winter Snowsaurus trail will see visitors following in some enormous footsteps as they track down spectacular dinosaurs roaming the grounds. Discover incredible statues including a huge Tyrannosaurus Rex! What is the meaning of the word Stegosaurus? What did an Allosaurus eat? And… why did the dinosaur cross the road? Find out with our Snowsaurus activity book that accompanies the trail, full of facts, jokes, puzzles and more. Included in general admission to the landscape. 10:00am – 4:00pm General admission tickets are: Adults £11. Children £5.50. Under 5s are free. Concessions (over 60s, students, NHS, military) £9.90 Free for Painshill members 14 CHRISTMAS 2021

UNTIL 19 DECEMBER VISIT FATHER CHRISTMAS AT HATCHLANDS PARK National Trust - Hatchlands Park, East Clandon , Guildford , GU4 7RT Father Christmas is visiting Hatchlands again this year. You can come along and meet him in his cosy festive sitting room in the courtyard, have a quick chat and receive a small present.

Father Christmas will see 8 children per slot.

Your visit will be within the 30-minute time slot you book so you may have a short wait when you arrive. In order to help keep Father Christmas fit and healthy for Christmas Eve, please note that we will be practising social distancing in his sitting room. Everyone is welcome but this event is most suitable for ages 2-8 years. Booking for this event is essential. Normal admission prices apply for non-members.

theatre experience will bring the spirit of Christmas alive this festive season. £10 per child. Normal admission charges apply.

CHRISTMAS AT PAULTONS See Peppa Pig World decorated for Christmas, Santa’s Christmas Wish Show!

Singing, Dancing and fun! Guest starring the man himself, Father Christmas, Frosty’s Snowtime and Santa’s Storytime, Magical Illuminations around the Park. See and hear the Marvellous Musical Christmas Tree - with its own light show every 15 minutes. Meet Frosty the snowman and our very own Snow Princess. Tornado Springs - our brand new area will be open for Christmas along with rides in Lost Kingdom, Critter Creek and Little Africa! Tickets from £24. www.paultonspark. co.uk/tickets/

Not to mention those cheeky elves who are so looking forward to another snowball fight with you, and all before your individual family time with Father Christmas where you will be given a special key to his toy shop where you can choose any present you would like. With fun for the whole family, gifts for all including grown-ups, this is one magical journey you won’t want to miss. Your visit to Chobham Adventure Farm’s Magical Christmas is a 1.5 – 2 hr interactive immersive experience where you will be led through 8 magical fully themed rooms by our enthusiastic team of actors and elves, and take part in every activity. You will be within a group for the first part of the experience but will visit Father Christmas with just your family. Should you wish to, there will be the opportunity to purchase professional photography and souvenirs before you leave.

UNTIL 24 DECEMBER UNTIL 23 DECEMBER FINDING FATHER CHRISTMAS AT POLESDEN LACEY Polesden Lacey, National Trust Property, Great Bookham, nr Dorking, RH5 6BD Outside in the woods, two elves need help in finding Father Christmas and his lost presents.

Can you help? Join us on a magical adventure through our enchanted woods and meet the great man himself. Created by The Visitor Enhancement Experience*, this immersive

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS AT CHOBHAM ADVENTURE FARM Chobham Adventure Farm, Bagshot Road, Chobham, GU24 8DB Father Christmas is back and he needs YOU!!

With all the elves having been on furlough, Father Christmas needs your help to make sure everything is ready in time for the big day! As you embark on your fun filled journey, there’s gingerbread to decorate, letters to post, real Reindeer to check on, magic to make plus Caraticus’ latest crazy invention.

FATHER CHRISTMAS AT GODSTONE FARM Godstone Farm, Tilburstow Hill Road, Godstone, RH9 8LX The wonder of Christmas returns to Godstone Farm, with our ever popular visits to see Father Christmas and his friendly Elves in his cosy grotto. Catch the magic in our enchanted woodland walkthrough and let our wondrous story captivate little minds. Do you believe? We certainly do. A Father Christmas visit includes the choice of a brilliant toy from our charming toy shop, primarytimes.co.uk/surrey

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plus entry to farm all day including our indoor playbarn, and a Christmas themed session to decorate (and eat) a sweet treat.

The Meet Father Christmas Experience is for a family maximum of 4 children in each timeslot with a maximum of 2 adults per slot. The time slot you are selecting is to meet Father Christmas. You are welcome to arrive anytime to the farm from 9.30am on the day of your visit, then please report to our Elf Check-In, at your time slot.

03 DECEMBER WHERE’S SPOT Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW Listen to the story of “Where’s Spot” by Eric Hill, then explore a trail around the garden. Trails and Tales is returning to its pre-Covid format of a story all together, followed by a craft and a trail. The final craft can be completed in the cabin or taken away. Ideal for children aged 2-4 years. 10–11.30am or 1-2.30pm. £6.50 per child. events@gatton-park.org.uk

so won’t be able to attend the event, but Mrs Claus has kindly taken time to be available on the day. All activities will be outdoors so dress warmly with lots of layers and waterproofs just in case! 10:00am - 12:00pm Suitable for 2-5 year olds and all children must be accompanied by an adult. www.surreywildlifetrust.org/ events/2021-12-07-christmas-tots

CANDLELIT CHRISTMAS CONCERT St Nicolas’ Church, Guildford.

Join the Surrey Hills Chamber Choir and their sister choir, the Surrey Hills Singers, for a traditional candlelit Christmas concert with many well-known carols and festive songs on a theme of light and hope. The concert will be held in the large and stunning surroundings of St Nicolas Church.

10 DECEMBER FOLLOW THE TRAIL AROUND THE GARDENS Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW. Listen to the story of “The Gruffalo’s Child”

by Julia Donaldson, then explore a trail around the garden. Trails and Tales is returning to its pre-Covid format of a story all together, followed by a craft and a trail.

The final craft can be completed in the cabin or taken away. Ideal for children aged 2-4 years. 10–11.30am or 1-2.30pm. £6.50 per child. www.gattonpark.co.uk.

WINTER WELLY WALK Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW. Enjoy a winter walk around beautiful Gatton Park. Stop off along the way to make a willow star decoration, follow the Christmas trail around the lake and then whittle a stick to cook a marshmallow over the fire. Take away refreshments (including hot chocolate) available to purchase. Event takes place from 12-4pm. Book your arrival time online at www.gattonpark.co.uk. £8 per adult which includes 1 child, additional children £3 payable at the entrance.

Opening Times:*: Fri: 12pm - 7pm, Sat: 9am - 7pm, Sun: 10am - 5pm, Mon - Wed: 9am – 6pm.

18 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS CAROLS @ THE JOLLY FARMER The Jolly Farmer, Worplesdon, Guildford.

Lead singer and friends will be singing Christmas Carols at The Jolly Farmer in Worplesdon. Bring along your voices and join in! 6:00pm.

18 - 19 DECEMBER CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT AT LANDMARK ARTS CENTRE Surrey Brass will be joined by local choirs and narrator Giles Abbott for a festive programme of words and music and carols for you to sing too. This event always sells out quickly so early booking is strongly recommended. www.landmarkartscentre.org

11 - 26 DECEMBER 04 DECEMBER BANSTEAD FAMILIES NEARLY NEW SALE Banstead Community Hall, SM7 3AJ On Saturday 4th December, we will have 16 stalls filled with fantastic quality: Maternity clothes, Children’s clothes (ages 0-12 years), Children’s shoes and wellies, Nursery Bedding, Nursery Furniture, Nursing Goods, Baby and Toddler feeding equipment and accessories, Parenting books, Buggies and travel systems, NEW games and gifts, Pre-loved games, toys, puzzles and more. Entry is £2 per adult and children go free. 09:30–12:00 05 DECEMBER CREATE A FESTIVE WREATH Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW Make a willow wreath and decorate with natural foliage – cedar, holly and ivy.

Recommended for children aged 6 and over. Children can help parents with their wreaths. Additional children’s activities available. 1.30-3pm. £30 for 1 adult and 1 child, extra child £10. Book online at www. gattonpark.co.uk.

CINDERELLA Godalming Borough Hall, The Burys, Godalming, GU7 1HY. Godalming’s Pantomime for 2021 is the Fairy Godmother of all Panto’s, Cinderella!

It will run from 11 December - 26 December 2021 at Godalming’s Borough Hall. This production will feature spectacular song and dance, colourful costumes and lots of fun and laughs for the whole family!

Your carriage awaits, so book your tickets now! Tickets: £22 (£20 concessions) www. godalmingpanto.com/#tickets 11 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS MARKET The Weyside Guildford, Millbrook.

We have invited local businesses and talented artisans and makers for our first ever Christmas market. It will be a great opportunity to purchase that unique Christmas gift to treat someone. We will also have, of course, tasty festive food and mulled wine. The market will take place in our stretch tent in the garden. www. theweyside.co.uk. 2:00pm to 5:00pm

07 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS TOTS WITH SURREY WILDLIFE TRUST Nower Wood Educational Nature Reserve Our ever-popular Christmas magic returns this year with a self-guided trail of festive fun through the woods! You will follow a trail amongst the trees with exciting activities for little ones along the way. As well as a Christmas adventure through the woods, every child will get to visit Mrs Claus’ grotto and if you’ve been very good this year... there might even be a small present to take home! Father Christmas is very busy at this time of year and 16 CHRISTMAS 2021

12 DECEMBER A GUILDFORD ANTIQUES & BROCANTE STREET MARKET High Street, Guildford, GU1 3, Organised by Antiques – Collectibles – Vintage – Retro Events and supported

by Guildford Borough Council. 9:30am to 3:30pm. With retro and collectable furniture, lamps & trunks, brass and copper artefacts, textiles, postcards & advertising memorabilia there will be something for everyone. www.acvrevents.co.uk

CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING Nower Wood Educational Nature Reserve, Mill Way, Dorking.

Start the Christmas season off with an afternoon of festive fun making your own holiday door wreath. We will provide the circular frame and an abundance of natural materials from which you can create a welcoming wreath that will last for all of December. Bring some friends or come on your own. We’ll have mulled juice, holiday snacks and festive music to inspire your creativity.

This annual event is the perfect way to begin what is sure to be a fabulous holiday season.

As some of the materials can be sharp and difficult to handle, we suggest that you bring gardening gloves and secateurs if you have them. www.surreywildlifetrust.org 17 DECEMBER TRAILS AND TALES: STICK MAN (2+ YRS) Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW. Listen to the story of “Stick Man” by Julia Donaldson, then explore a trail around the garden. Trails and Tales is returning to its pre-Covid format of a story all together, followed by a craft and a trail. The final craft can be completed in the cabin or taken away. Ideal for children aged 2-4 years. 10–11.30am or 1-2.30pm. £6.50 per child. Booking essential online at www. gattonpark.co.uk 17 - 22 DECEMBER GUILDFORD CHRISTMAS MARKET The Electric Theatre, Onslow St, Guildford We bring a Christmas Market to the outdoor space at the Electric Theatre in Guildford town centre. More information coming soon!

18 DECEMBER - 2 JANUARY ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village Winter Holidays.

Our new temporary exhibition ‘Uncommon Power’: Lucy and Catherine Madox Brown explores the work of two creative women who grew up at the heart of the PreRaphaelite world. Visit Limnerslease, the recently reopened home of our founders, artists Mary and George Frederic Watts and see their studios.• In Print: Into the Night is a free exhibition in Watts Contemporary Gallery featuring contemporary printmakers who are inspired by the beauty of nighttime.• Treat yourself and loved ones to unique and thoughtful presents from our Shop. Families and Young People :There’s plenty on offer for everyone: make decorative festive crafts, follow winter woodland trails, cosy up for fireside storytelling, and meet Father Christmas.

19 – 24 DECEMBER FATHER CHRISTMAS COMES UP TRUMPS AT G LIVE Bellerby Studio @ G Live, Guildford Father Christmas is back, and this time he’s had three helpings of sprouts! As he tries to deliver the presents, his tummy rumbles, gurgles and groans, but Father Christmas knows he must keep it in – he doesn’t want to wake anyone up! TaleGate Theatre Productions hit the perfect combination of witty humour, fantastic music and the extra sparkle for which they have become known in this fabulously funny and brilliantly bouncy musical adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s sequel to ‘Father Christmas Needs a Wee.’ www.GLive.co.uk primarytimes.co.uk/surrey

Surrey

primarytimes.co.uk/surrey

CHRISTMAS 2021 17

Surrey

19 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS CONCERTS - MATINÉE & EVENING – SURREY POLICE BAND Normandy Village Hall, Glaziers Ln., GU3 2DT Guildford.

Our ever popular Christmas concerts feature all your festive favourites including Sleigh Ride and Troika, plus plenty of new festive arrangements and carols – bring along your best voices! Our fantastic fundraising raffle will be back, with brilliant prizes donated by local businesses, and we might even get a visit from Father Christmas! Our bar will open from 30 minutes prior to each performance, where you will be able to purchase mulled wine. A range of soft drinks will also be available. 2:30pm to 8:30pm .

Tickets: £8.00 adults, £5.00 under 16s, free under 5s. www.surreypoliceband.org.uk STICK MAN! INTERACTIVE PERFORMANCE Cobham Village Hall, Lushington Drive, KT11 2LU I’m not a stick, why can’t you see? I’m Stick Man, I’m Stick Man, I’m Stick Man, that’s me, and I long to go home to my family tree! Come and join your Pyjama Drama leader as we sing, dance, play and do LOTS of pretending, helping Stick Man get back to his Stick Lady Love and Stick Children Three! This performance is suitable for children between the ages of 3-7 years. £7. Doors Open at 9:20am. Starts at 9:30am. www.ticketsource.co.uk 20 DEC - 02 JANUARY FIRST FOR ART AT CHRISTMAS Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6AA. It’s Christmas time! And we are looking forward to being back in the Gallery at Denbies – just in time for Christmas. And we are staying right through the holidays into the New Year. This Christmas we are being joined by established and new artists with a fresh collection to see out 2021. On display we have work from artists: Valerie Thompson – Kirsty Mills – Dale Sheen – David Harmer – Elaine Balmer – Eszter Rigo – Zoe Bonner – Richard Orr – Robert Hay – Susan Sheen Doors will open at 10am daily for viewing and sales. With many artists offering prints and cards created from their original art, there is a wide selection of items available. www.firstforart.com 20 DECEMBER PAINT & SIP PARTY “ICE SKATE EVERGREEN” Kings Head Teddington, 123 High St, Teddington, Surrey, TW11 8HG We are delighted to invite you to be our guest at our Paint & Sip in Style workshop at the lovely local venue The Kings Head, 18 CHRISTMAS 2021

Teddington. Come alone or with your friends and spend a wonderful evening painting a beautiful picture, while sipping a glass of bubbly and enjoying some “feel good” music.. You don’t need any experience with painting, and you don’t need to bring anything. You only need a ticket and to save the evening in your calendar. Our events are like no others. We like to make our guests happy and provide them with a memorable experience. That is why there will also be a few more lovely surprises to make your evening even more enjoyable. Please arrive about 30 minutes early to check-in, choose your seat and grab some nibbles from the bar. You will be able to get more drinks throughout the evening, as well. We strictly follow all of the government requirements related to COVID-19 to make sure that you are in a safe environment. 6:30 pm- 8:30pm hello@merrimentatelier.com 20 - 24 DECEMBER GYMNASTICS CAMP & CHRISTMAS TUMBLE CAMP Flair Gymnastics: GUILDFORD SPECTRUM, Parkway, Guildford.

Daily 9am - 1pm. Book 1 day or for 5 days.

21 DECEMBER TRAILS AND TALES: STICK MAN (2+ YRS) Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW. Listen to the story of “Stick Man” by Julia Donaldson, then explore a trail around the garden. Trails and Tales is returning to its pre-Covid format of a story all together, followed by a craft and a trail. The final craft can be completed in the cabin or taken away. Ideal for children aged 2-4 years.

10–11.30am or 1-2.30pm. £6.50 per child. www.gattonpark.co.uk

mulled wine, mulled cider or one of their many famous gin and tonics. The walk is open to people of all ages and although not too long there is a small but steep hill halfway through. The walk should take no more than 3 hours but it does depend on the speed of the group. Please make sure you are using appropriate clothing and footwear as it will probably be cold and quite possibly damp underfoot. Also bring some nibbles for the journey and some fluids. Cold weather can be as dehydrating as the Summer. This walk is dog friendly but you will be advised on areas where dogs will need to be put on a harness. Meet outside the March Hare in Guildford Town Centre from 10:30 for an 11am prompt start. To book please contact Pete Lambert on 07940101732 or email treks@discoverguildford.org 28 DECEMBER - 02 JANUARY THE LITTLE MERMAID Woldingham Village Hall, Surrey, CR3 7DA. This little village of ours has been celebrating each New Year with a pantomime put on by the village for the village since 1948 (when the WI performed RED RIDING HOOD). This tradition continues today, this year The Little Mermaid. With local children and adults taking part every year. Ticket price £6.00 - £8.00

27 DECEMBER WALK OFF THE CHRISTMAS TURKEY POST CHRISTMAS HIKE The March Hare, 2-4 South Hill, Guildford.

A lovely winter hike to brush off the Christmas cobwebs. Dust off the cobwebs and work off the Christmas turkey on this beautiful 5 mile circular jaunt around Guildford hosted by DG Outdoor Adventures.

This scenic walk will take in some great views around the local countryside and will finish at the Keep in Castle Street with a celebratory

14 – 29 JANUARY TROUBLE IN PANTOLAND The Archway Theatre, Surrey, RH6 7NQ. Join us for some high energy fun with your favourite pantoland characters, be ready to tap your toes, clap your hands and raise the roof as you boo the baddies and cheer the goodies! Ticket price £11.50 - £13.50 15 JANUARY

TUESDAY 28TH CHRISTMAS TREASURE HUNT Farley Heath Roman temple, Guildford.

It’s here again... Treasure Hunting in the Surrey Hills... Treasure all about the wonders of winter 5,10 & 15 km Routes Fancy Dress always welcome Soup & Cider & Rosettes for all. 09:30am to 4:00pm . www. onthehoofdt.co.uk

22 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS CRAFTS Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW Make your own Christmas decoration.

Christmas craft making session for younger children aged 3-7 years. 10-11am. £7 per child, accompanying adults free. Booking essential online at www.gattonpark.co.uk.

14 - 22 JANUARY BEAUTY AND THE BEAST BY LIMELIGHT SCRIPTS AND PERFORMED BY THE OXTED PLAYERS Barn Theatre, Surrey, RH8 0AA The Oxted Players are thrilled to return panto to the Barn Theatre, Oxted this coming January and invite you to join us for two hours of side-splitting, toe-tapping musical fun! With an array of eccentric and magical characters from the Pantomime Dame, trusty sidekicks and ferocious beasts, to witches, candlesticks and glamorous dinnerware - there’s a favourite for everyone in this fun packed show that is the perfect trip out for all the family. So dust off your theatre gear, practice your applause and get ready for the tale as old as time! For assistance or group bookings, please email tickets@oxtedplayers.co.uk or call 01883 714062. Ticket price £13.00

05 - 15 JANUARY GOODNIGHT MISTER TOM The Courtyard Theatre, Chipstead, Surrey, CR5 3QU. One of the most uplifting stories ever written, Michelle Magorian’s stunning Goodnight, Mister Tom is brought gloriously to life in this stage adaptation by David Wood. Set during the dark and dangerous build-up to the Second World War, Goodnight Mister Tom follows sad young William Beech, who is evacuated to the idyllic English countryside and builds a remarkable and moving friendship with the elderly recluse Tom Oakley. All seems perfect until William is devastatingly summoned by his mother back to London.

APPEER GIRLS “PIZZA FRENZY” AT PIZZA EXPRESS, GUILDFORD, 7-12YRS Pizza Express, High Street, Guildford, A relaxed and fun session for up to 10 girls, 7-12yrs at Pizza Express, Guildford where they will have a go at making their own pizzas. Facilitated by Kris (Girls Lead Facilitator and Megan , Teen Work Experience candidate) and Pizza Express staff. 10.30am, arrival where girls will meet with Kris/Megan and the Pizza chef and put on their aprons, wash hands etc.

11.00 - 11.40 am: Pizza making fun, 11.4012.15/12.30 - Girls wait for their pizzas to cook and enjoy some dough balls and some Pizza art with Kris. The pizza’s will be boxed up and the girls can eat their pizzas in the restaurant ( we have reserved a quiet table).

If they don’t finish their pizzas they can take them home with them. NB: The restaurant does not open until 11.30am for the public so the girls will have the restaurant to themselves for an hour. Fee: £15.00 per ticket (Assisted Places available) Parents: As the restaurant does not open until 11.30am, there is a Starbucks just along the road from Pizza Express (2 minute walk) where parents can meet and chat.

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Surrey

primarytimes.co.uk/surrey

CHRISTMAS 2021 19

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BOXOFFICE

ALL THE VERY BEST THEATRE, ARTS AND FILM NEAR YOU

Christmas Family Theatre at Farnham Maltings Key Players returns to the Maltings this Christmas with a bold and imaginative amateur adaptation of J.M.Barrie’s ‘Peter Pan’. Filled with puppetry and pirates, mermaids and magic, fairies and fighting, lost boys and crocodiles, this is the stunning original story of the boy who could fly. Featuring a talented cast of adults and children, ‘Peter Pan’ is set to be a thrilling theatrical treat for audiences young and old this Christmas (running from Tue 30 November to Fri 03 December).

T

he Nutcracker is a family favourite at Christmas time and is one of the most delightful ways to introduce children to the enchantment of ballet. The story of Clara, a girl on a magical Christmas Eve adventure, is accompanied by sparkling music and even dancing sweets! Watch the full company of The Royal Ballet, accompanied by The Orchestra of The Royal Opera House, in this much-loved ballet classic on the big screen at Farnham Maltings. The screening takes place on Sun 12 December at 2pm in the Great Hall.

Maltings’ favourite timetravelling magicians, Morgan & 20 CHRISTMAS 2021

West are bringing their Great Big Christmas Magic Show to the Maltings from Sun 19 December to 24 December (suitable for all ages 5+). A family festive feast of magic, mystery, and merriment!

The dynamic duo deal out a delightful dollop of deception, deftly delivered with a dash of derring-do. Fun for all the family in this utterly splendid (and totally silly) Christmas magic extravaganza!

Book tickets and find out much more about the shows on Farnham Maltings website farnhammaltings.com or call box office 01252 745444.

Petey Says...

We take great care to ensure all 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!

Camberley Theatre 01276 707600

10th– 31st December Jack and the Beanstalk The magic of Panto returns to Camberley with a brand-new, side-splitting adaptation of Jack and the Beanstalk!

Join Jack Trott as he battles to save the sleepy market town of Little Camberley on the M3 from the evil Fleshcreep and the Giant Blunderbore. Can he save all the flowers from being squashed? Can his simple, daft brother Simon do anything?!

With help from his mother Dame Dolly Trott, Colin the trainee Fairy and farm hand Jill, plus their trusty cow Daisy, anything is possible! Featuring a great medley of songs, energetic choreography, dazzling costumes and a whole host of squirty cream, this is a giant of a pantomime that is not to be missed! Jack and the Beanstalk is brought to you by the team and talent behind Robin Hood which was nominated for three GB Pantomime Awards as well as previous favourites Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and Peter Pan. Tickets from £15 11th December Baby Broadway Christmas Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas primarytimes.co.uk/surrey

Surrey

at a festive Baby Broadway concert this December! An interactive Christmas performance suitable for all ages. The whole family can sing and dance along to seasonal show tunes from hit musicals and well-known songs from Christmas films, all performed by West End singers.

Enjoy well-known numbers from Elf, White Christmas, Mary Poppins, The Snowman, Frozen and many more. Festive fancy dress is encouraged and as well as singing, clapping and dancing along - you can expect bubbles, bells, flying babies and puppetry! Open to all ages from new-borns to school age to grandparents.

Concert lasts approximately 45 minutes, doors open 15 minutes before start time. www.babybroadway.co.uk Tickets: FREE (remember to book) 19th December We All Wobble Pass the mince pies! Join our two lovable clowns as they weeble and wobble their way through a chaotic winter feast. This life-sized roly poly spectacle is full of hilarious slapstick, near misses, and messy chaos for the whole family. Falling hither and thither, these human sized clown weebles never topple. A bold and colourful performance celebrating the wobblyness of life, because we all wobble! Acá Theatre is an award-winning Kent-based clowning company who create moments for people to laugh together. Using nonsensical language, physical storytelling, and colourful costumes, this visual treat is accessible to all. Through clumsy struggle and chaotic fun, our delightfully cheeky clowns put on a magical spectacle celebrating the wobbly-ness of life. FREE (remember too book)

Cranleigh Arts 01483 2780000

5th December Jack in the Beanstalk Join TaleGate Theatre Productions this Christmas for the GIANT pantomime ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’. Follow our hero Jack and his daft Mum, Dame Trott as they climb the beanstalk, defeat the giant and save their best friend, Daisy the Cow. This years production is guaranteed to be our funniest and most spectacular pantomime ever! Packed with songs, slapstick, silliness, audience participation and all the fairy-tale magic of traditional pantomime! Book your tickets and join the Fe-Fi-Fo-FUN. 11:00am & 2pm. Tickets £14.50

Dorking Halls 01306 881717

10th -12th December The Santa Show Come and join us for the adventure of a life time at the North Pole with Santa and Jingleberry the Elf, in our brand new show for 2021! Jingleberry and Santa, along with their friends, Papa Elf, Rudolph the Rapping Reindeer and Frosty the Singing Snowman need to make sure everything is ‘ship-shape’ in time for Christmas! This exciting, jingle-bell ringing, colourful, primarytimes.co.uk/surrey

sing along interactive show is perfect for 2-6 year olds, their families, pre-schools and nurseries. Children will also get the chance to meet Santa and receive their very own Christmas present* at the end of the performance. Estimated run time: 50 mins (no interval) *All presents are gender neutral. Tickets: £10.50 | Children: £14.50 (includes a present) 18th – 28th December Jack & the Beanstalk Climb up the Beanstalk and join us for a GIANT of a family pantomime! Welcome to the world of fairy tales, where our poor hero Jack and his dotty mum Dame Trott are tricked into selling their beloved cow Daisy for a useless bag of beans. Laugh at silly Simple Simon, boo and hiss the wicked Fleshcreep and cheer on our hero Jack as he tries to rescue his sweetheart Jill from the nasty Giant‘s castle in the clouds. From the same team behind Beauty and the Beast, Sleeping Beauty and 2019’s record breaking Aladdin, come and join in the fun Christmas 2021 as Enchanted Entertainment proudly present Surrey’s BIGGEST pantomime.

Packed with great songs, amazing dance routines and plenty of laughter for all the family. Fee Fi Fo Fum… It’s panto fun for everyone! Tickets from £17

Electric Theatre 01483 444789

12th December A Christmas Hug by Steven Lee – presented by The People’s Theatre Company It’s Christmas Day in Australia and all Natascha’s dad wants is a hug from his daughter, but she’s not interested. In fact, she’s downright grumpy. Fortunately, her dad has a traditional family cure for grumpiness. The greatest storytelling you’ve ever heard! So join us this Christmas and find out whether a magical story and a cuddly Koala, can encourage Natascha to give her poor old dad a hug. Based on the best-selling book How The Koala Learnt To Hug by Steven Lee, it’s the perfect way to start your seasonal celebrations. Run Time – 55 mins Tickets £10 Age Range – Everyone from 2 to 102!

Epsom Playhouse 01372 742555

4th - 24th December Santa’s Best Ever Christmas Following last year’s sell-out performances of Santa’s Christmas Cracker, Honalee Media are delighted to present a brand new Christmas show. Santa’s Best Ever Christmas - the show where every child gets a present from Santa! It’s always the most wonderful time of the year, full of peace and love, family and friends so why does Santa think that this Christmas is going to be the best one ever… can you guess? Join Father Christmas and friends in this brand new, festive, musical, interactive adventure to make 2021 Santa’s Best Ever Christmas!

It’s a family show most suitable for 2-7 year olds, where every child will receive a specially wrapped present from Santa CHRISTMAS 2021 21

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Milkshake! Monkey’s Musical

22nd January 2022 Oldilocks and the Three Bears One winter, Oldilocks finds a teddy bear in the park and remembers a delicious bowl of porridge she tasted years ago in the woods. Something else happened but she can’t quite remember what... so she sets off for the forest. Will she find the bears house and what will happen then?

A wonderfully funny and warmhearted celebration of the classic story starring a naughty old lady who looks very familiar… and 3 funny bears who love their breakfast. Garlic Theatre hold their young audience spellbound with lovingly crafted puppets, music and some steaming bowls of porridge. For ages 3 to 7 years. 11am & 2pm Tickets: £11.50, Family Tickets (Max 2 adults): £38

Harlequin Theatre 01737 276500

17th February 2022

DO NOHTIS MISS TE! ON

after the most Christmassy Christmas show ever, HOHO-HO!Songs include children’s favourites Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jingle Bells, The Hokey Cokey, The Twelve Days Of Christmas, We Wish You A Merry Christmas, and many more! Prices from: £12.50 11th December - 3rd January 2022

Beauty and The Beast Panto is back for 2021. With a fabulous professional cast of actors, singers, comics and dancers, this year’s pantomime is the perfect treat for the whole family at Christmas At the Great British Pantomime Awards 2020, The Epsom Playhouse pantomime ‘Peter Pan’ won the ‘BEST PANTOMIME IN COUNTRY’ category. This year the creative team have worked their magic once again and present to you another ‘BEAUTY’ of a pantomime and Beauty & The Beast promises something for everyone. Comedy, laughter, singing, dancing and a beautiful love story waiting to be told. With a fabulous professional cast of actors, singers, comics and dancers, this year’s pantomime is the perfect treat for the whole family at Christmas. This classic fairy tale has been transformed into a rip-roaring family pantomime for all children aged from 4 to 104. Can Belle rescue her father, will the Beast ever find true love, can ‘Lumi’ ever get a job and will Nanny Fanny ever remember where she is?

Who could ever learn to love a Beast? Only time will tell... Prices from: £15 to £23.50 13th February 2022 Milkshake!Monkey Musical Milkshake! Monkey is back and can’t wait 22 CHRISTMAS 2021

to put on a spectacular NEW Show for you all, joined by some of his favourite Milkshake! friends plus two Milkshake Presenters creating the most dazzling show you have ever seen! Join Paddington, Daisy & Ollie, Milo, Noddy, Pip and Posy, Blue’s Clues & You! and of course Milkshake! Monkey for an unforgettable family time at Milkshake Monkey’s Musical!

Learn the amazing songs and dances with your favourite Milkshake! friends and watch as the music, the lights, the costumes and the stage bring Milkshake! to life. With great Milkshake friends, anything is possible. This brand-new show has plenty of laughter, audience interaction and great fun to get everyone up on their feet! It’s a family show not to be missed!

Prices from £15.00 (Tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded)

Farnham Maltings 01252 745444

19th – 24th December Morgan & West’s Great Big Christmas Magic Show A family festive feast of magic, mystery, and merriment! Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West crash into Christmas with a show full of fabulous family fun, festive frolics and fantastic facial furniture! The dynamic duo deal out a delightful dollop of deception, deftly delivered with a dash of derring-do. Awesomely alliterative acts of amazement and astounding asymmetry* await! Fun for all the family in this utterly splendid (and totally silly) Christmas magic extravaganza! £12 (family discounts available) age guidance 5+ duration 60 minutes

g-live

08447701797

18th December A Christmas Cracker Guildford Choral Society. Join Guildford Choral for a musical celebration of Christmas for all the family. The choir will be joined in G Live’s s concert hall by the young voices of the Royal Grammar School Prep Christmas choir and the brilliant brass of Southern Pro Musica for a feast of carols and seasonal music, with plenty of opportunity for everyone to join in with your Christmas favourites. Younger members of the audience will be invited to the stage to perform some of the most familiar carols with the choir, and there may just be a visit from Father Christmas too! The perfect way to begin your festive celebrations. Front stalls – rows A-C - £17 Front stalls – rows D-H - £23 Tiered stalls – rows J-V - £27 Front circle – rows AA-GG - £25 Rear. Under 18s/Students/Unwaged – half price. Under 16s – free. Wheelchair companion - free 19th –24th December Father Christmas Comes Up Trumps Father Christmas is back, and this time he’s had three helpings of sprouts! As he tries to deliver the presents, his tummy rumbles, gurgles and groans, but Father Christmas knows he must keep it in – he doesn’t want to wake anyone up! TaleGate Theatre Productions hit the perfect combination of witty humour, fantastic music and the extra sparkle for which they have become known in this fabulously funny and brilliantly bouncy musical adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s sequel to ‘Father Christmas Needs a Wee.’ Tickets: Under 16s: £16.50 Adults: £15.50

Little Red Riding Hood Lyngo Theatre return with their wonderfully theatrical, new production of the much loved classic fairy tale. A wolf in granny’s clothing knows all about what fun dressing-up can be and in Little Red Riding Hood our magical wardrobe opens its doors to a fantastic display of gorgeous garments. As we take you down the path into the snowy wild wood, you’ll hear catchy songs on the wind and spot hilarious puppets between the trees. We’re sure you’ll say what a great show we’ve got – all the better to thrill you with! Run time:55 minutes Recommended for ages 3-8. 1.30pm & 3.30pm Tickets: £12.00, Concession £11.00 Family tickets £30.00 (group of 3), £40.00 (group of 4), Groups of 10+ £9.00

Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre 01483 44 00 00

3rd December – 9th January Dick Whittington Join us for a pussycat and rat-packed panto party! Dick Whittington’s heading to seek his fame and fortune in that there London - he’s heard the streets are paved with gold. But when he gets there he can’t see the gold beneath the grime, and the evil King Rat is out to get him! With his loyal cat by his side will he be able to save the city? He’s going to need a little help from you to win the day. Book now for this purrfect Christmas treat - this panto will be a Whitting-tonne of fun! Tickets from £23.50 20th – 24th December Mr Charles Dickens presents - A Christmas Carol Actor John O’Connor delightfully recreates Charles Dickens’s famous performance of his best-loved ghost story. A Christmas Carol was the first public reading Dickens gave of his own work. He enacted it over 150 times and the effect on the public was phenomenal. ‘The success was most wonderful and prodigious – perfectly overwhelming and astounding altogether!’ primarytimes.co.uk/surrey

Surrey

he said after the first night. This Christmas, you can experience what it must have been like to be in the audience! Come and enjoy a seasonal treat in the spirit of Christmas past, present and future. Price £18 The following concessions & discounts apply: Members, Students / Under 25s, Access

comes first, but so do we, as teamwork is worth more than first place! Adult + Child: £10.50. Additional Child: £7 Additional Adult: £7. Approximately 45 minutes, with no interval. Show Times 11:30am & 1:30pm

22nd January

18th - 31st December

Robin’s Winter Adventure A young boy’s incredible journey with a feathered friend. But will facing his fears be the greatest adventure of all?

An uplifting tale of change, bravery and friendship told with puppetry, poetry, music and magical design. A little gem of children’s theatre. All Tickets £10.

Approximately 50 minutes.Show Times 11am & 2pm 26th January The Hare and the Tortoise AN INTERACTIVE STORYTELLING PERFORMANCE FOR 0 - 5 YEAR OLDS. In one of the most famous of Aesop’s fables, a very cheeky and boastful Hare gloats that he’s the fastest creature in the whole wood. A tortoise sick of bickering on this topic volunteers to race him and Hare learns an important lesson. Hannah Summers’ inventive and energetic retelling follows the Hare and the Tortoise through, over and round the forest obstacles and working together, your little ones learn that it isn’t all about who wins the chase, slow and steady wins the race. Tortoise

primarytimes.co.uk/surrey

Leatherhead Theatre 01372 365141

Cinderella - The shoe must go on!

Music, fun and laughter in this classic pantomime from 18th to 31st December 2021. You shall go to the ball this Christmas with the spectacular family pantomime ‘Cinderella’. LP Creatives will be returning to Leatherhead to bring you another fantastically magical and hilarious pantomime.Join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her wicked sisters and meets her dashing Prince Charming…

Cinderella will be packed with plenty of slap-stick silliness, beautiful costumes, mesmerising scenery and of course the obligatory boos and hisses! Prices from £12.50 Please note: A restoration fund of £1.00 per ticket will be charged in addition to the ticket price, to assist with the cost of ongoing maintenance 6th – 8th January Aladdin The classic tale of the Aladdin the poor street urchin who falls in love with a beautiful Princess, gets kidnapped by the Queen’s loyal advisor sent down a deep dark cave where he meets a Genie who

can answer all his prayers.The kingdom is in peril from the evil Kazeer, Lord High Advisor to her Majesty the Queen of Arabia. The Princess must find a husband before the next full moon or else all is lost and Kazeer will get his hands on the kingdom forever. Will Aladdin finally get the girl of his dreams and will the kingdom be saved from the evil clutches of Kazeer and his interesting sidekick Botch. Rare Productions - Tickets from £16.50 5th February Animal Antics A show packed with animal effects, music and laughter, designed to both entertain and educate using no live animals, stunning puppetry and special effects to bring incredible life-like and size animals and dinosaurs to the stage right before your eyes. 2pm Tickets from £12.50

New Victoria Theatre 020 7206 1174

4th December – 2nd January Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Mirror, Mirror, on the wall, don’t miss the fairest pantomime of them all! With fashion advice from everyone’s favourite TV personality, Gok Wan and comedy in abundance from Harriet Thorpe (The Brittas Empire/Absolutely Fabulous) and comic Aaron James this year’s panto will be a glittering festive treat for all ages.

With a live band, spectacular special effects, beautiful costumes and stunning

scenery Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be created especially for the New Victoria Theatre by the world’s biggest panto producer, Crossroads Pantomimes.

Tickets from £13.

Riverside Arts Centre www.riversidearts.co.uk/

17th - 18th December Sparkle Jolly Jingle An evening of Christmas Songs and Panto £10 7.45 & 2.30, 7.45 on Saturday.

Rhoda McGaw Theatre 020 7206 1174

9th – 12th February 2022 The Smartest Giant In Town George wishes he wasn’t the scruffiest giant in town. So when he sees a new shop selling giant-sized clothes, he decides it’s time for a new look: smart trousers, smart shirt, stripy tie, shiny shoes. Now he’s the smartest giant in town... until he bumps into some animals who desperately need his help – and his clothes! This heart-warming tale about friendship and helping those in need is brought to life in a musical, puppet-filled adventure, following on from Little Angel Theatre’s bestselling adaptations of Julia Donaldson’s picture books including The Singing Mermaid and The Everywhere Bear. Wed, Thu and Fri at 10:30 am and 2:30pm. Sat at 10am, 2pm and 4pm. From £15.90.

CHRISTMAS 2021 23

2021

AT

£15 - £37.50 per person

24 CHRISTMAS 2021

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