Primary Times in Hereford & Worcester CHRISTMAS 2019

30,431 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

Hereford & Worcester

www.primarytimes.co.uk

See kingfishershopping.co.uk for more information

Education

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Inspire their passion for adventure ..........................................................................................

In Hereford & Worcester

Second Floor, Richardson House, 21/24 New St, Worcester. WR1 2DP. Tel: 01905 723011 Publishing Editor: Dawn Pardoe - 01905 727909 Design and Production: Paul Blyth Sales & PR : Rachel Seabright - 01905 727900 • rachel@pw-media.co.uk Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through Infant and Junior Schools throughout Hereford & Worcester. 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

This magazine is audited by BPA, 30,431 copies, 2019.

Bookstore

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New books for Christmas ..........................................................................................

Roundabout

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What’s on ..........................................................................................

Exploring Christmas

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Around the world ..........................................................................................

Pinboard

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News from your area ..........................................................................................

Sweet Dreams

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Top tips for making bedtime easier ..........................................................................................

Theatre 20 Who’s treading the boards?

For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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Primary Times Christmas 2019

Reception Admission Deadline 15th January 2020 Sixth Form Admission Deadline 10th January 2020 Upcoming Open Events Email: karen.roth@holytrinity.co.uk

Holy Trinity School and Sixth Form Centre

Birmingham Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY10 2BY Telephone 01562 822929 | Email: office@holytrinity.co.uk www.holytrinity.co.uk

For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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Primary Times Christmas 2019

Thursday 30th January 2020 10am–12.30pm

Interested? email teachingschool@southbromsgrove.worcs.sch.uk to register

SAFE • HAPPY • INSPIRED Hunters Moon, Bransford www.littlegrowbagsnursery.co.uk Nurturing your child through play to reach their full potential

• Well-equipped and inspiring nursery rooms and spacious gardens • • Home cooked meals and snacks freshly prepared daily • • Parent Cam CCTV for total peace of mind • Car parking •

Contact us to arrange a visit to our settings in Worcestershire: 34 Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove, B61 0AE E: bromsgrove@myshootingstars.com • T: 01527 877666 15 Barbourne Terrace, Worcester, WR1 3JR E: worcester@myshootingstars.com • T: 01905 23973

From 3 months to 5 years OFSTED registered for 37 places Open 7.45am-6.00pm, Monday-Friday Small holiday club • Home cooked food Woodland Garden Friendly, caring and flexible Safe dropping off and parking

Helping your child to care Phone us on 01886 833379 For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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Primary Times Christmas 2019

For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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ENJOY SNOW PLAY & SEE SANTA Kingfisher Centre, Redditch, B97 4EQ. This year Snow Play at Kingfisher, Redditch is better and bigger than ever! This fantastic, wholly immersive artificial snow experience allows children to have fun in the snow without the need to wrap up warm with woolly hats and gloves.

Snow Play transports children into a winter wonderland with evaporating falling snow, snowball pom-poms and snow-flocked Christmas trees. New for 2019 – Visit Father Christmas during your visit to Snow Play. See website for further details: kingfishershopping.co.uk THE REAL ICE RINK Webbs, Wychbold. It’s time to get everyone together and visit one of the Midlands’ favourite Christmas events and create lasting festive memories as you glide across the ice. With special skates for young children, our helpful rink team on hand and a welcoming, festive atmosphere a visit to the Webbs Christmas Ice Rink is fantastic fun.

An all-weather, covered REAL ice rink Open seven days a week*, including evenings Skate sessions are 45 minutes, tickets include skate hire.

Free parking It’s fantastic fun and you can skate whatever the weather, under the clear roof that covers Webbs real ice rink! Tickets from £5.

Until Saturday 16th December DROP IN FESTIVE CRAFTS Starlight Cafe, 13 Humphrey Avenue, Bromsgrove. Drop in after school festive crafts. A variety of activities

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Primary Times Christmas 2019

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available each week. £3 per child to include a drink and snack. Come and make your own Christmas decorations and try something new.

All are welcome. 3.15pm-5pm.

Until Tuesday 24th December SANTA SAFARI Spring Grove, Near Bewdley, Worcestershire, DY12 1LF. Staff at West Midland Safari Park are busy making the last few preparations for the Christmas festivities at West Midland Safari Park, with the help of a few special guests. Daily from 1st December, the Park is hosting its annual Santa Safari, where the big man himself, Mrs Claus and their jolly elf helpers are helping to set up shop, ready to meet the Park’s guests. The elves have been very busy, setting up the magical grotto, planting over 350 Christmas trees and transforming the whole of the Park’s Discovery Trail, with lights, baubles and a sprinkling of ‘snow’.

Additionally, they have been visiting all of their new animal neighbours and gathering some amazing stories, ready for ‘Elf Story Time’ - a brand new, interactive, story-telling show, sure to spread lots of festive cheer.

Santa’s visitors will be magically transported to the North Pole, where they will be able to pay a visit to the merry man himself in his grotto.

Children will get a memento of their day by having a picture of themselves with Santa to take home and they’ll be able to choose their very own present in the elves’ workshop.

Additionally, children can complete their very own Santa Activity Book, watch the festive Sea Lion Show and a visit the Elf Craft Club in the Safari Academy. There’s also an ‘Elfie’ competition where guests can take a picture with one of the merry elves, to post on Facebook for a chance to

win a fabulous prize! Admission to Santa Safari also includes access to the Park’s four-mile self-drive Safari, where guests can spot our new baby animals (Granville the rhino, Gerald the giraffe and Grace and Gamba the zebras) and share their first Christmas with them. They can also visit the Discovery Trail, African Village, Land of the Living Dinosaurs and the new Ice Age exhibit. Further information and tickets are available from the Santa Safari website www.santasafari.co.uk or by telephone 01299 402114. You can find out more on the Safari Park’s official Facebook page: WestMidSafari

Thursday 28th November Sunday 1st December WORCESTER VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS FAYRE 2019 Worcester kicks off the festive season at the end of November with the Christmas Lights Switch On event on Thursday 21st November, followed a week later by the annual Victorian Christmas Fayre. Since it began in 1992, the The Fayre has become an annual fixture in the city, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and staying true to its roots with Victorian themed characters, festive treats, delicious street food and a wonderful atmosphere. You can spend hours wandering through the city centre, browsing the stalls. Whether you’re looking for a Christmas decoration, a piece of unique jewellery, an unusual item for the home or some edible festive treats, you won’t be disappointed with the varied choice on offer. There’s also a fantastic programme of entertainment including music and Victorian characters around every corner! www.worcesterchristmasfayre.co.uk

Thursday 28th & Friday 29th POP UP SHOP TRUMPET CORNER Trumpet Crossroads, Near Ledbury HR8 2RA. Selling cards, calenders and stocking fillers all in aid of the Midlands Air Ambulance. Time 10am-4pm. Plus lots of lovely cake.

Friday 29th BROADWAY CHRISTMAS SHOPPING & SLEIGH RIDES High Street, Broadway, Worcestershire, WR12 7DT. The Late Night Christmas Shopping evenings will be from 5.30pm-8.30pm. Also taking place on Friday 6th December.

Lovely festive atmosphere with beautiful Christmas lights, music, mulled wine, festive food, street entertainers, pony sleigh rides plus great shops & eateries, and more!

The perfect opportunity to enjoy the beginning of the Season of Goodwill

and stock up on gifts. The local Fire Service will also be fundraising.

CHRISTMAS FAIR Hampton Court Castle will once again be hosting their Christmas Fair, for the 11th year! Held within the castle, you’ll be able to see beautiful decorations, large fir trees and roaring open fires. We will have stalls exhibiting a wide range of gifts, local crafts & produce and delicious, seasonal food. The perfect opportunity to start your Christmas shopping or simply treat yourself!

10.30am-5pm daily. Please note that the Gardens and River Walk will not be open during this event.

Tel: 01568 797676 (weekdays). www.hamptoncourt.org.uk

Friday 29th November – Sunday 1st December CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Bromyard is preparing for its 8th Christmas Tree Festival at St. Peter’s Church from Friday 29th November to Sunday 1st December 2019.

A fantastic display of Christmas Trees creatively decorated by local businesses and community groups in the beautiful surroundings of St Peter’s Church in Bromyard.

Entertainment: Friday (evening): Local Primary Schools, Conquest Youth Theatre Saturday (afternoon): U3A Singers, Ukulele band, Saturday (evening): Ukapellas, Hannah Clayton, Huw Knight & Viv Bell, John Bloor & Phil Marshall

Saturday 30th November & Sunday 1st December LANTERN MAKING WORKSHOPS The Hive, Sawmill Walk, The Butts, Worcester, WR1 3PD. 11am - 12pm & 1:30pm-2:30pm. Get ready for the famous Lantern Parade by crafting your very own festive lantern. These fun sessions will get you in the mood for both the parade and Christmas. £5 - willow lantern (ages 7 years+) £2.50 - mini lanterns (all ages). hiveadminteam@worcestershire.gov.uk

Saturday 30th November – Saturday 21st December LEDBURY CHRISTMAS SHOW The Herefordshire Guild of Craftsmen’s Christmas Show will see the upstairs of medieval Black and White Market House in the centre of Ledbury transformed into a festive emporium for the first three weeks in December when 18 highly skilled craftsmen bring their latest beautifully handcrafted work to this annual event. A loyal following has developed over the years with visitors keen to buy unique, affordable gifts direct from the makers who will be on hand to

Try something

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Unlock your child’s potential with Stagecoach Performing Arts Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn to embrace life with creativity and courage

CWMBRAN & MONMOUTH 01633 662283 cwmbran@stagecoach.co.uk LEDBURY & MALVERN 01684 439452 malvern@stagecoach.co.uk

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Worcestershire’s largest selection of inflatable and event entertainment For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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R chat and wrap on a rota basis. At the top of the oak staircase they’ll find…

An amazing collection of Christmas tree decorations in stained glass, wood and ceramic, leather belts and dog collars, art (local landscapes and prints), silver jewellery, resin pendants, bright red mugs, bowls and Green Man sculptures, shaker and ornamental boxes, ceramic model buildings, clocks in wood and much more. Cards accepted, fun assured, heaters working. Open daily (except Sundays 1,8,15 December) www.herefordcraftguild.org.uk

Saturday 30th November Monday 23rd December CHRISTMAS AT THE LITTLE OWL FARM PARK Come and join us for a wintery Christmas spectacular at Little Owl Farm Park. An experience for the whole family to enjoy in the festive season. We have sessions available from 30th of November right through until the 23rd of December 2019.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by Santa’s cheeky elves which will find out if you made it onto the Naughty or Nice list. You can decorate a Christmas cookie, Christmas crafts or create a decoration for your Christmas tree at home. On your way to Father Christmas’ grotto, walk through our Winter Wonderland setting & find his log cabin. Inside you will meet Father Christmas himself and tell him about how good (hopefully!) you’ve been this year.

If you’re deemed on the ‘Nice’ list, you can visit his toy shop to pick out a gift to take home with you! £16.95 per child including farm entrance.

Write & post your letter to Santa and walk through our wonderland.

Visit Santa and his elf and pick out a fabulous present. Help Papa Elf find the naughty elves hiding around the farm, and donate your dummies to the reindeer. PLUS THE WHOLE USE OF OUR FARM! Booking required.

Visit our website for details or call us on 01905 620325 for bookings and enquiries.

Saturday 30th November Tuesday 24th December SEVERN VALLEY WITH SANTA Experience the magic of Christmas

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Primary Times Christmas 2019

on this exciting steam train ride through the Severn Valley with Santa - a journey you’ll never forget.

Soak-up the festive atmosphere at Kidderminster, where you’ll board your steam train. We’ll have roasted chestnuts, live music and plenty of photo opportunitiues at our decorated station. Settle into your seats in our comfy, decorated carriage, and chat to Santa as he meets every family on the train, handing out gifts to each child and posing for photographs as you steam through the beautiful Severn Valley.

Youngsters will be able to tell Santa what they would like to open on Christmas morning - providing they’ve managed to keep themselves off the naughty list this year! The Santa Special operates on: November 30th, December 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd & 24th. Trains depart from Kidderminster at 9.45am, 12.45pm and 3.45pm*, the journey lasting approximately 100 minutes.

The train steams straight to Highley, but stops at Bewdley on the way back, where you can walk into the beautiful Georgian riverside town, catching a later train back. *Does not operate on December 24th.

Saturday 30th HAMPTON FERRY AT CHRISTMAS Mulled wine, mince pies, carols and Father Christmas himself. Lights switch on approximately 7pm.

SHOP LOCAL AT ETSY MADE LOCAL HEREFORD The popular Etsy Hereford Christmas Market will be returning to the Left Bank this December, offering visitors an opportunity to purchase unique handmade gifts from more than 50 local makers and craftspeople. Set over two floors in this stunning riverside venue, the 2019 market looks set to be the best yet with a diverse array of products including art, candles, ceramics, glass, jewellery, millinery, clothing & accessories, toiletries, toys, household items and much more on sale. The Etsy Christmas Market will be open from 11am5pm on the 30 November and 1 December at Left Bank Village, Hereford. Find out more about all of the makers taking part by following the Hereford Etsy Team on Facebook: herefordetsyteam or Instagram: herefordetsyteam.

Christmas questions as you go before reaching the LIVE Nativity Scene in the barn buildings; you may even be lucky enough to see an new born baby donkey. Once all the questions are answered bring it back to the Visitor Centre and post it in the letter box so that it can be scored to see if you win the prize. The winners will be announced at the end of the Christmas Season. Nativity Trail included in normal admission into the grounds. You could always enjoy a warming meal in the carvery restaurant afterwards!

DECEMBER Every Saturday and Sunday ELF AND SANTA’S GROTTO All Things Wild, Station Road, Honeybourne Nr Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 7QZ. You have been exclusively invited to go behind the scenes at Elf HQ. Join in the festive fun and complete fun activities to see what life is like as one of Santa’s Elves! Visit Santa in his grotto, and take home a present!

Prices for Under 3’s and Annual Memberships start from £6.50.

Prices for over 3’s and non members start from £17.50 (and includes full day entry). PLEASE BOOK IN ADVANCE ONLINE. Slots on the day are dependant on availability and prices will be higher

Every Saturday

Saturday 30th November Wendesday 1st January 2020

CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAIN Number One Comberton Place, Kidderminster, DY10 1QR. Sing along or just soak up the festive atmosphere as we get Christmas off to a traditional start with an evening of carols & festive songs. Make sure your vocal chords are warmed up as you join our heritage diesel train on a trip from Kidderminster to The Engine House, our Visitor Centre at Highley. Starting your experience at Kidderminster, the concourse will be filled with the sounds of Christmas classics, before you board the Carol Train for more singing on-board on your journey to the Visitor Centre at Highley. At Highley you must leave the train for the short walk (approximately 150 yards) to The Engine House, where the choir will again lead the singing and a warming glass of punch and a mince pie will be served to passengers. Please note, wheelchair users MUST reserve a space on the train at the point of booking. Please call 01562 757900.

NATIVITY AT BODENHAM ARBORETUM Bodenham Arborteum, Wolverley, Worcestershire, DY11 5TB. 11am5pm. Something for all the family.

Follow the stars and answer the

DECEMBER FESTIVE FUN! Bring your children along during three saturdays throughout december to learn how to make their very own mixed craft christmas decorations.

Four options to choose from. Children will be shown the basic skills of paracord weaving, macrame and sewing to enable them to create their own masterpieces! Small intimate sessions of 4 children at any one time so children get the help they need. All taught by Louise – Owner of Lilly Dilly’s. Cost - £12 per child (Siblings £8) includes tutoring, all materials and they even get to take their creations home plus a festive treat! Suitable for children age 4+. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Times: 10am and 1pm. Please contact Louise for more information or to book a slot for your child info@lillydillys.co.uk

Sunday 1st KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FAIR 2019 Kidderminster Harriers Social Club Stadium Close, Kidderminster. Please join us for our Christmas Fair. Lots of local businesses selling unique gifts as well as a number of activities going on throughout the day. Come and meet Santa in his Grotto. This is free including a gift. This years charity is Bewdley Baby Bank.

Monday 2nd TREE OF LIGHT 2019 The switch on event takes place at 6pm on Monday 2nd December 2019. The main objectives of the appeal are to provide way for families and friends to remember loved ones no longer with us and to raise funds for worthy causes. This year the major recipients will be St Richard’s Hospice and Acorns, plus other charities supported by the Rotary Club of Malvern. For many years some of the running costs of the Appeal have been sponsored by local businesses. Again we would be grateful for any contributions.

Members of the club will be erecting the lights in Priory Park , Malvern at the end of November. The switch on event takes place at 6pm on Monday 2nd December 2019. A list of donors and lives remembered, updated regularly, together with the names of our business sponsors will be displayed on a TV screen in the central foyer of Malvern Theatres, and on Rotary’s website.

Thursday 5th LANTERN PARADE The Hive, Sawmill Walk, The Butts, Worcester. WR1 3PD. Signalling the start of Christmas at The Hive, watch Worcester light up with our annual winter lantern parade.

Hear a festive concert at Cathedral Square at 5.30pm, then from 6pm meander through the City with live festive music as we go. Bring your own lanterns, or make one at our

WHAT’S ON IN YOUR AREA? From Theatre shows and attractions to classes and family days out - you’ll find even more at: www.primarytimes.co.uk

KIDS’ KARATE Call or Text us to arrange your

FREE TRIAL CLASS Venues in

Tewkesbury

Tel: 07926 312645

Ross on Wye

Tel: 07725 228016

Are you Struggling with making Child Arrangements with your Former Partner?

Talking to a third person can help you make arrangements for the future. Our Principal Mediator Claire Jackson is FMC Accredited and a former family barrister. Wye Valley Mediation provides a calm and safe haven where you can each speak and be heard. Your children can also have a voice if you wish.

We can talk about: • The children’s living arrangements • • Organising your finances for the future • The family home • • Other assest and property • Maintenance • Pensions • The Fred Bulmer Centre, Wall Street, Hereford HR4 9HP The Annexe, Town Council Offices, Broad Street, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5DB

Tel: 01432 806222 | Email: info@wyevalleymediation.co.uk www.wyevalleymediation.co.uk

For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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R Lantern Making Workshops, and start Christmas as you mean to go on. Worcester Rock Choir will be performing Christmas classics on our return to The Hive. Squash and biscuits available for every child. hiveadminteam@worcestershire.gov.uk YOUNG AT ART The Hive, Sawmill Walk, The Butts, Worcester, WR1 3PD. NEW TIME: 2pm-3:30pm. Exploring. Listening.

Making. On Thursdays during termtime The Hive and Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum alternate hosting themed sensory craft sessions for children under five.

Find those taking place at The Hive: 5 December - Christmas Boxes 19 December - Party Hats. Children £3. Payable on the day. No prebooking required. hiveadminteam@ worcestershire.gov.uk MESS AROUND WORCESTERSHIRE Lower Broadheath Village Hall. Jingle mess, jingle mess, jingle all the way!

Don your Christmas jumpers and join the best festive party of the season! Mums, dads, boys and girls, whether you’ve been naughty or nice this year, everyone can have a jolly messy time with at Messy Christmas.

Little ones can mess around with fun activities like reindeer dust, Brussel sprout rolling and candy cane rice, or get messy with our festive treats such as angel foam, Santa goo and Christmas pud. All your have to do is come along and mess around, and leave the cleaning up to us! The event is suitable for children aged 6 months (or sitting unaided) to 5 years old. What makes us special is everyone is welcome to join in including older siblings up to the age of 10, who can participate in the Big Kids Create & Make Corner which include Arts, Crafts and Junk modelling activities to keep them busy! The session starts at 11am, please arrive 5 minutes prior for registration. The session will finish at 12pm. We will provide a warm wash area so you can get your little ones clean again. Please bring a towel and a change of clothes. Prices from £7 LEDBURY’S NEW EVENING FARMERS’ MARKET The Barn, St Katherines, Ledbury, HR8 1EA. Market: 6pm-8pm. Bar:

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Primary Times Christmas 2019

till late. Ledbury Food Group is bringing a new monthly Farmers’ Market to Ledbury hosted by The Barn in St Katherine’s – in the evening convenient for those who work have a busy day - and with music and a bar. The market will be on the first Thursday of each month from 6pm to 8pm. We’ve invited busking musicians to create a lively atmosphere so shoppers can enjoy a drink and a snack as well as sampling and buying the freshest local produce. Stalls include organic vegetables, fresh meats, pork pies, raw milk, cheeses, eggs, chilli products, delicious cakes and savoury pastries, jams/chutneys and ready meals to take-away - all the provisions you need for a tasty dinner as well as the weekend. We are doing this because: Farmers’ markets give local growers and farmers the opportunity to sell their goods directly to the public. Buying local produce supports the land, our communities and the hard work small producers put in to bringing food to our table. You can be sure of where your food and drink has come from. Locally-produced foods help the environment by reducing food miles and packaging. It will be a discovery for all the senses: visual, taste and smell. More details at www.ledburyfoodgroup.org and @ LedburyFarmersMarket.

Friday 6th THE SNOW QUEEN Hartlebury Parish Hall, Waresley Courth Road, Hartlebury, DY11 7TQ. A musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s much loved fairy-tale by Gillian and Rick Juckes.

How far would you go to save your best friend? Gerda and Kay are better than best friends. When Kay is swept away by the wicked Snow Queen to the Land of Snow and Ice, the good-hearted young Gerda sets off on a journey to find him…

Join Gerda and her band of fearless helpers – Crow and Reindeer – on their gripping quest to find Kay and rescue him from the Queen’s shivery palace before his heart turns to ice.

This magical new musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s much loved fairy-tale has a great deal of charm, warmth and humour, and is scarily entertaining. A timeless classic, perfect for children and adults alike. This show from the highly acclaimed Northumberland Theatre Company provides the perfect start to the Christmas Season for all children and adults aged 5 and above. 6pm-8:30pm. Tickets: Adults - £9.50, Children under 10yrs - £4.50 barrywalmsley7@btinternet.com 01299 250569

FRIENDS OF WINTERFOLD CHRISTMAS MARKET 2019 Winterfold School, Winterfold House School, DY10 4PW Chaddesley Corbett. The Friends of Winterfold Christmas Market takes place from 3pm. Lots of lovely stalls and stocking fillers.

Saturday 7th KINGTON ANNUAL FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL Featuring the very best of what the borders has to offer, With this annual festival hitting its 14th year we can now boast over 90 stalls hand picked to give the best variety of producers from charcuterie to patisserie to fresh meat including lamb, pork and goat to chocolate, to oil’s and then find the perfect kitchen wear to cook it in. This years festival is spread over 5 different venues from the market hall and coach house to the kington centre at the opposite end of the high street and this year we are lucky enough for one of the venues will be sponsored by the now famous White Heron cassis based just a few miles up the road with their pop up cocktail bar certainly one to visit to keep those December chills away.

With a fabulous festive feel and atmosphere, great music and vibe, this winter foodie delight is spread over five venues. Sponsored again this year by award winning British Cassis from White Heron Properties it promises to be another marvellous event. For more information ontact kingtonfoodfest@gmail.com or telephone 01544 231202. kingtonfoodfestival.co.uk CHRISTMAS FAIR AT BARTON COURT 2019 Barton Court, Colwall, Near Malvern, WR13 6HN. Open 10am-6pm. Circus performances at 12noon and 6pm.

Christmas Market, Father Christmas, Food & Drink, Demonstrations, Circus Performances, Kids Workshop.

Further details bartoncourtonline. co.uk Please note Father Christmas tickets are pre booked only to save queuing and waiting time and they are limited in number so make sure that you book early to save any disappointment www.ticketsource. co.uk/barton-court COLWALL MISTLETOE FAIR 2019 Outside Provisions of Colwall, 1 Primeswell Close, Walwyn Road, WR13 6RP. Including sale of Christmas gifts and treats! Jam, Jelly, Chutney and Juice - all made from local produce Handmade crafts and cards and the very best bunches of Colwall Mistletoe! 9am-1pm.

WOODLAND ELVES AT CLENT HILLS NEED YOU Nimmings Wood, Clent,

Worcestershire, B62 0NL. Father Christmas is on his way and we need help to get ready. After the hard work of building a shelter, making decorations and setting up the grotto, there is a reward of a delicious treat around the fire with a very special visitor. £15.50 per child.

2pm-4pm. Booking essential via the National Trust Website.

THE LOST PRESENT CHRISTMAS PLAY The Hive, Worcester. Topsy Turvy Theatre Proudly Presents The Lost Present… A Christmas Adventure!

1:30am & 2pm. Topsy Turvy Theatre are back and would like to invite their young audiences on a Christmas adventure like no other. It’s Christmas Eve, and having tumbled to earth through the night sky, Elva sets out on a journey to find her best friend - a little girl she hasn’t even met yet. Has the lost present got what it takes to find her way through the cold winter night? Will she arrive in time for Christmas morning?

Will Elva be everything the little girl wished for? Written especially for children and brought to life using handmade puppets, original music and delightful storytelling, The Lost Present is an enchanting tale about true friendship. It really is the perfect gift for Christmas. You can meet and greet Elva after the show.

Running time - 50 minutes. Suitable for children aged 2 to 7 and families.

Adults £7, Children £4.50, Babes in arms free.

Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Hartlebury, DY11 7XZ. Join us for a traditional Christmas celebration.

Meet Father Christmas, explore seasonal gifts & craft stalls, and enjoy fun children’s activities, horse & carriage rides and musical performances. 10am-3pm. Adults £9, Concessions £8, Children £5, Family £25 Contact: museum@ worcestershire.gov.uk 01299 250416 CHRISTMAS CRAFT The Commandery, Sidbury, Worcester, Worcestershire, WR1 2HU. Make & Create for Christmas at The Commandery, Worcester. Free children’s craft activities - make a beautiful candle holder as a gift for your favourite person, and design your own Christmas card too. Free activities, standard admission prices apply. Also taking place on Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd December.

Tuesday 10th FREE HYPNOBIRTHING TASTER Wellbeing Centre Bromsgrove.

Congratulations on your pregnancy!

CHRISTMAS AT CLEARWELL CAVES

This is something very special and different; a real homemade Christmas Event with fantastic colourful underground displays and of course Father Christmas. This super Christmas event is popular with so many families because of the spectacular and unique seasonal displays, which this year tells the new story of ‘Archie and the Unicorn,’ newly created by Heather Holland for this year’s Christmas displays. Children meet Father Christmas and between 2-14yrs old, choose a good quality gift, then everyone walks through the wonderful displays, created as if walking through a life-size, pop-up book. Half-way through the caverns there are Christmas stalls selling decorations and stocking fillers, and even an underground café for some welcome refreshment. There is ample free car and coach parking.

The Christmas Fantasy runs from 29th November to 24th December 2019, 10am to 4.30pm daily. Cost is £14.00 for adults and children, including a quality gift for children between 2 and 14 years old. There is a magical late evening every Friday until 7pm. Take a look at the website www.clearwellcaves.com/events/#event-calender for more details.

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Friday 13th & Saturday 14th CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP Hartlebury Castle, Kidderminster, DY11 7XZ. Join our Head Gardener Jane Finch and create your own beautiful Christmas wreath to take home. Use fresh greenery and add a touch of sparkle to your design while Jane takes you through the steps to making this much loved Christmas decoration. Follow up your workshop with a delicious soup lunch, included in the cost of your booking. Soup lunch will be at 1pm for Friday 13th afternoon workshop. £25 per person.

Book your place by emailing Chantel - activities@hartleburycastle.com

Saturday 14th CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS WITH COLWALL COMMUNITY CHOIR St Leonard’s Church, Newland, Chapel of the Beauchamp Community. An evening of Carols and Anthems for Christmas performed by Colwall Community Choir. 7.30pm.

Tickets £8, School children free.

Available on the Door, from John Goodwin Estate Agent Colwall, from Choir Members or Malvern Book Cooperative. Includes Mulled Wine and Mince Pies LEOMINSTER VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS MARKET Leominster Victorian Christmas Market is held in Leominster each year, with a wide variety of stallholders, dressed in traditional Victorian dress, lining Corn Square and Broad Street and selling a range of crafts and gifts plus local and seasonal produce. With all the usual

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Primary Times Christmas 2019

tasty treats, gifts and trimmings.

The ever-popular Leominster Morris Men will entertain as usual, inviting on-lookers to have a ‘bash’ with sticks and and wave a hanky or two.

Locals dress in traditional Victorian dress, and there is plenty of street entertainment to entertain all the family. A great day out for all the family, stalls and activities in Corn Square and Broad Street. For further information contact leominstervictorianmarket@mail.com

Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th BREAKFAST WITH SANTA The Bishops’ Table Cafe at Hartlebury Castle, Kidderminster, DY11 7XZ. Join Santa for breakfast in the Bishops Table Café. £8.95 for adults, £10.95 children (to include present), £6 babies (to include present but no food). Adults can enjoy either a Full English Breakfast (sausage, bacon, fried egg, hash brown, beans, tomato and toast with a tea or filter coffee) OR Veggie Breakfast (veggie sausage, hash brown, mushroom, tomato, fried egg, beans and toast with a tea or filter coffee). Kids can munch on either a waffle topped with banana and toffee sauce and a fruit juice or milk OR sausage, beans, fried egg and toast with a fruit juice or milk.

Also taking place on Saturday 21st December. Booking is essential. To book please call 01299 251901 or email catering@hartleburycastle.com

Friday 20th REPAIR CAFE MALVERN HILLS The Friends Meeting House, Orchard Road, Malvern. 10am-1pm. Bring your broken or damaged household items for repair by a team of skilled volunteers. Also sewing repairs and a tool and knife-sharpening service.

Every third Saturday in the month. www.malvernhillsrepaircafe.co.uk

Saturday 21st THE SNOWMAN & THE SNOWMAN AND THE SNOWDOG Worcester Cathedral, College Yard, Worcester, WR1 2LA. Two iconic festive films on the big screen.

Performances at 1.30pm, 4pm and 7pm. Family entertainment for the winter season. Enjoy two Christmas time classic films with captivating soundtracks in a spectacular setting inside Worcester Cathedral. Also take the opportunity to visit the glittering Christmas tree festival around the Cathedral Cloister. “The Snowman”

by Raymond Briggs is published by Puffin. Tickets from £8. www.thesnowman.com

CHILDRENS CHRISTMAS CHOCOLATE WORKSHOP Unit 21, Bond Ind Est, Wickhamford, Evesham, WR11 7RL. Chocolate Genie in Evesham, 10am-11:15am.

Come & fun with chocolate for all budding chocolatiers. We are making printed buttons using magic paper & constructing, decorating a gorgeous chocolate house. For 7-13yrs. Entry price (public): £16 (Additional fees may apply). Tel: 01386 834334 CHILDRENS CHRISTMAS PARTY 2019 RedHill Social Club Worcester, 50 Foxwell Street, WR5 2ET. Our Annual Christmas Party for the little ones returns on Saturday 21st December.

Time and details to be confirmed but we expect the party to take place between 2pm and 5pm on Saturday 21st December. Childrens Entertainment and Disco with a secret Special Guest.

KIDS’ CHRISTMAS BREAKFAST PARTY Farmhouse Inns (Bluebell Farm, Worcester), Unit 18, Hornhill Road, Worcester, WR4 0SX. We are delighted to announce that Santa will be back at Bluebell Farm for our Kids’ Christmas Breakfast Party!

Those who have attended last year will know that this will be a perfect way to entertain the young ones in the run-up to Christmas! Colouring, fun and photos with Santa! Tickets - including breakfast. Children £7.49 each Adults to order from our breakfast menu on the day. Booking is essential so pop in and book your place early - this will be a sell-out!

Monday 23rd SLEEPING BEAUTY Hogarths Stone Manor, Stone, Kidderminster, DY10 4PJ. Pantomime fun for all the family. Come and join us and be transported to a far away place with many magical surprises.

Matinee Doors Open – 11am Performance Starts – 12pm Evening Doors Open – 4pm Performance Starts – 5pm £15 Adults, £10 Children under 10, £40 Family 2 Adults/2 Children. Book via telephone: 01562 777 555. Book via email: reception. stonemanor@hogarths.co.uk

Monday 23rd Monday 30th CINDERELLA 2019 Town Hall, Kidderminster, DY10 1DE. Join us this Christmas for the most magical story of Cinderella staring a sensational cast. We’re sure you and all of the family will lose yourselves in the magic, fun and romance in this most magical seasonal event. You will laugh, dance, sigh and sing with us as we take you into the wonderful world of Pantomime right here in the heart of Kidderminster. Presented by

Michael Neri Theatrical in association with Kidderminster Town Council Tickets from £16

Tuesday 24th FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA WITH SANTA Worcester Whitehouse Hotel, Foregate St, WR1 1EA Worcester. Served traditionally to table, with a present for every child. £20 per person, £15 youngsters 6-12 years of age, £10 bairns 5 and under. Served 2pm-5pm.

Advance bookings essential.

JANUARY Monday 16th Wednesday 18th GOLDILOCKS & THE THREE BEARS Norton Parish Hall, Littleworth.

Norton Theatre Group has been putting on a pantomime every year since 1986. That is a lot of silliness and really bad jokes... Norton Theatre Group presents an amateur production of Goldilocks & The Three Bears. Tickets now available. We can Bearly wait www.nortontheatregroup. co.uk Box Office 01905 820459. www.ticketsource.co.uk/ nortontheatregroup Tickets from £4.50

Tuesday 17th REPAIR CAFE MALVERN HILLS The Friends Meeting House, Orchard Road, Malvern. 10am-1pm. Bring your broken or damaged household items for repair by a team of skilled volunteers. Also sewing repairs and a tool and knife-sharpening service.

Every third Saturday in the month. www.malvernhillsrepaircafe.co.uk

Thursday 30th January Sunday 2nd February 2020 ROBINSON CRUSOE & THE PIRATES Performances of the Kay Theatre Group hugely successful pantomime will once again be held at The Swan Theatre Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED. Kays 66th production, 2020 Pantomime ROBINSON CRUSOE AND THE PIRATES is an amateur production, script by Alan P Frayn, by arrangement with Stage Right Creative Limited, and directed by Sue Cassidy. As always Kays are guaranteed to bring you a first rate panto. An all round, well established, family adventure filled with plenty of fun and laughter. Tickets sell fast so book now for Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates which will performed at the Swan Theatre Worcester. There are a number of show dates and times to choose.

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS

COME TO THE REGAL IN TENBURY Over the past six years the professional pantomime at The Regal in Tenbury had been growing in style, quality and reputation. Once again this year promises to be even bigger and better with it’s very own in house production of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’.

The cast of professional actors will be supported by 28 junior ensemble cast members who

have all been individually selected from Tenbury and the surrounding areas.

From Wednesday 18 December through to January 3 there will be a total of 28 performances including 14 matinees and one special relaxed performance on Thursday 2 January. It’s best to book your tickets early though, as some performance have already sold out!

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs promises to bring everything you want from a pantomime to the Regal including laughs, audience participation, singing, dancing and a little bit of cheekiness!

And of course, a Pantomime is not a Pantomime without a Wicked Queen to boo and hiss at and a Dame to make you laugh (and possibly blush), all framed around a classic fairytale

love story that has been passed down through the ages. All the music will be performed live by professional musicians adding to the atmosphere and experience of this quality production.

Tickets are available from regaltenbury.co.uk or from box office on 01584 811 422. n See their advert on page 21 for more information.

CHRISTMAS COMES TO BROMSGROVE

WITH A WINTER WEEKENDER AT ARTRIX and activities in the foyer. Tickets for this magical event are just £7 for adults, £5 for children or £20 for a family of four. The wonder never fades for those who believe!

Later the same day, Artrix welcomes legendary folk collective Quill for their Christmas Concert. From 8pm, lead vocalist Joy Strachan-Brain heads up the seven piece band in an eclectic mix of Christmas favourites. Expect stylish covers of wellknown Christmas songs, Fairytale In New York, Rocking Around The Christmas Tree and Happy Christmas (War is Over) plus original songs such as Grey Goose Call. Get ready for a fabulous night of music. Tickets for Quill Christmas Concert are £20 each.

Brrromsgrove might be feeling the winter chill, but it’s warm and festive at Artrix!

In a break from the tradition of the last few years, we’re taking this year’s festivities inside to the warmth of the foyer and stage, as Artrix hosts a Winter Weekender of festive family events, live music, food and good cheer!

The Winter Weekender festivities begin on Saturday 7 December from 11am for a fun-filled family day inspired by the festive classic The Polar Express (Cert U). Come dressed in your pyjamas and be whisked away on a magical adventure to the North Pole with a screening of the best-loved film The Polar Express, a free hot chocolate for every child, followed by festive music

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Primary Times Christmas 2019

But the very next day... on Sunday 8 December Artrix is screening latest romcom Last Christmas (Cert 12A) at 11am.

Starring Emilia Clarke (Game of Thrones) and Henry Golding (Crazy Rich Asians), Last Christmas is a romantic comedy inspired by a George Michael beat. Kate (Emilia Clarke), harumphs around London, a bundle of bad decisions accompanied by the jangle of bells on her shoes. When Kate meets Tom (Henry Golding) on the job as an elf in a Christmas shop, her life takes an unexpected turn. As London transforms into the most wonderful time of the year, nothing should work for these two. But sometimes, you gotta let the snow fall where it may, you gotta listen to your heart... and you gotta have faith. Last Christmas features the music of George Michael, including the

bittersweet holiday classic of the film’s title.

Audiences are encouraged to get into the Christmas spirit by sporting their very best (or worst!) Christmas jumpers! Tickets for Last Christmas are £8 each or £6 for concessions.

On the evening of Sunday 8 December Cara Dillon returns to Artrix with her Christmas show Upon A Winter’s Night at 8pm. Cara and her band will once again capture the mystery of Christmas with a collection of songs, ancient and modern, providing a welcome reminder that the festive season can be about more than just commercialism. Tickets for Cara Dillon are £23.50 each.

Throughout the Winter Weekender there will be festive music in the foyer and mince pies in the cafe. The merriment continues throughout December with a great mix of live theatre including Little Star Baby Show on 17 December and Santa’s Christmas Countdown on 23 & 24 December, along with All & Sundry’s Panto, Snow White from 14 December.

There will also be all the very best in festive films from the latest releases, including Frozen 2 and Hollywood classics Singing In The Rain and Calamity Jane. n For full details of all events and the most up to date listings visit www.artrix.co.uk.

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Theatre OWS FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SH The Artrix Tel: 01527 577330 SNOW WHITE: ALL & SUNDRY Saturday 14th - Sunday 22nd December. A traditional family Pantomime with, fun, laughter and plenty of audience participation Princess Snow White is ordered from her home by her beautiful but jealous and wicked stepmother, who has ordered her death. Thankfully Hans, the kindly woodcutter could not go through with the Queen’s dastardly plan but knowing that he couldn’t take Snow White back home he leaves her alone in the forest. Luckily she is taken in by seven kindly dwarfs who live in the forest. Meanwhile back at the Palace and using her magic mirror, the Queen discovers that she has been betrayed and sets out to find Snow White and finish the job herself.

Helped along by some colourful characters including Dame Senna Pod, the confused Muddles and a rather argumentative mirror, Snow White is a traditional family pantomime, incorporating visual comedy, slapstick and audience participation. www. allandsundry.org various times. Ticket prices vary.

LITTLE STAR BABY SHOW Tuesday 17th December. Meet Little Star in our show for little ones ages 6-18 months. Join her as she swings from shooting stars, slides down crescent moons and bounces on fluffy clouds. Using puppetry, music and captivating visuals to delight our young audience, an intimate, relaxed setting makes this the perfect first theatre experience.

Little Star features the popular song ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Star’, taking us on a journey with the star herself.

Little Star wants to explore space. Not Content with the same spot in the sky, she wants to see, hear and touch everything! 10am - 11.30am - 1pm £10 - Adult and Baby, £8 - Additional Adult (only available from Box Office)

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Primary Times Christmas 2019

PINOCCHIO Sunday 12th January 2020.

Oddsocks are presenting a brand new adaptation of the classic story “The Adventures of Pinocchio” for winter 2019-20 A wonderfully adventurous story with heartwarming lessons to learn along the way as our hand-made boy Pinocchio journeys through the world discovering just what it takes to be a real human. From villains and vagabonds to fairies and giant fish, Pinocchio meets adversity and adventure with equal measure and a jolly good dose of humour.

Will Pinocchio listen to the talking cricket? Will his father regret creating him? Will the Whale swallow them whole? Find out when Oddsocks breath fresh air into this magical tale.

The Oddsocks troupe tell a lively tale with imagination, music and skill and the story provides ample opportunity for our trademark style of madcap humour to have the audience rolling in the aisles and really getting involved. 7:00pm. Suitable for ages 7+. Tickets: £16.50 Standard / £10.50 Under 16s / £14.50 Over 60s / £49.00 Family of Four

The conquest Tel: 01885 488575 CLIMB THAT TREE Saturday 14th December. Join award-winning songwriter and musician David Gibb on a musical journey through his hilarious and often surreal imagination, where bears live in the cupboard under the stairs, wolves are roaming the corridors at school, and trips to the moon are a regular occurrence. Be entranced as he introduces them to his magical musical tree and, as each flower opens, shares a new song for them to sing along with. Climb That Tree is guaranteed to have both parents and children singing along in no time – this is music that the whole family can enjoy together.

Supported by Arts Alive. 3pm. £10 £5 £20 (2+2)

The courtyard Tel: 01432 340555 CINDERELLA! Friday 29th November 2019 Saturday 11th January 2020.

Directed by Estelle van Warmelo.

Written by Lyndsay Maples. You’ll have a ball at everyone’s favourite pantomime, Cinderella! This magical, family-friendly show will be packed with spectacular costumes, magnificent sets and a coachload of hilarity, slapstick, song and dance that all make a trip to The Courtyard an unmissable Christmas treat. What’s more, with not one but two devious dames in the shape of the Ugly Sisters, this year’s show is set to be double the fun! Prepare to boo, hiss and cheer – oh yes you will! – in this sparkling festive treat. The clock is ticking... book your tickets today! Tickets from £11

THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKER Saturday 7th - Tuesday 31st December. Directed by David Durant. Written by Nick Lane. Join the little elves as they go on a magical adventure to help recover the poor Shoemaker’s fortune. Will they be the Christmas miracle the Shoemaker so desperately needs?

Join us at The Courtyard and see the story of The Elves and The Shoemaker unfold, live on stage!

Bursting with interactive puppetry, original songs and lots of family fun, this enchanting children’s show, that teaches the joy of giving, is sure to get you into the festive mood!

Various times Tickets from £7

LITTLE GRIMM TALES Saturday 25 January 2020, 11am. What if the wishes were granted? What if the magic were real?

Beasts and breadcrumbs, wolves and witches, frogs and fairies all join the fun in a stunning new adaptation of Grimm’s most magical tales. Join award winning Box Tale Soup on an adventure for children aged 3+, featuring beautiful puppets, innovative theatre and spellbinding original music. Everyone knows even the wildest fairy tales hold a grain of truth. Tickets £7.50

evesham arts Tel: 01386 446944 THE BIG SNOWY CHRISTMAS Sunday 1st December, 2:30pm.

A magical, interactive show for little

bears aged 3-6 and their grown-ups!

A hilarious, heartwarming tale about a brave little bear who helps to save Christmas! Featuring exquisite puppets, enchanting music and a magical snowy setting. Daddy Bear & Baby Bear are busy decorating their tree, when suddenly there’s a crash, bang, wallop outside their front door! It’s poor Santa, and he’s fallen from the sky! But who will deliver the presents in time for Christmas?

It’s Baby Bear to the rescue! There’s even a surprise visit from Santa! littlebluemonster.co.uk. £12 (£38 family of 4).

CINDERELLA THE PANTOMIME / PHOENIX THEATRE GROUP Wednesday 22nd - Sunday 26th January 2020. Why not join in the fun at Phoenix Theatre Group’s 30th Annual family pantomime - Cinderella.

With all of the singing and dancing, fun and antics the whole family have come to expect from a cast of 70. Will Cinderella make it to the ball to find her Prince Charming? Or will one of the ugly sisters win his heart? There’s only one way to find out! Please be aware strobe, pyrotechnics and special effects will be used through the show. Suitable for ages from 3 to 100!

Various times. Tickets £13

malvern theatre Tel: 0845 287 2146 DEAR SANTA Tuesday 3rd & Wednesday 4th December. Times: Tuesday 1:30pm & 4:30pm, Wednesday - 10am & 1:30pm. From the author of the well-loved children’s book DEAR ZOO, Rod Campbell.

Santa is determined to deliver the most fantastic Christmas present to our little hero Sarah. But he doesn’t get it right straight away!

With the help of his cheeky Elf, he finally settles on something ‘perfect’, just in time for Christmas Eve. All the ingredients of Rod Campbell’s ingeniously simple and charming style are brought to life on stage, plus a whole lot more… with music, laughter and plenty of audience participation. Plus the opportunity to meet Santa himself after the show!

A perfect introduction to theatre for those aged 2 to 7 years old, DEAR SANTA is a Christmas present children and parents alike will never forget. Tickets £15.12, Members discounts apply. Family of 4 £54.88, School groups £11.20.

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Theatre OWS FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SH

THE SPECTACULAR FAMILY PANTOMIME ALADDIN! Thursday 12th December 2019 - Sunday 5th January 2020.

Starring John Challis from Only Fools and Horses and Malvern’s favourite funny man, Mark James, alongside Jamie Steen as Widow Twankey, Aaron Jenson as Aladdin and Danny Rogers as PC Pong! Loula Geater joins the cast as Spirit of the Ring, Jacob Morris plays The Genie, Joely Barbour as Princess Jasmine and Gary Davis as The Emperor. Follow Aladdin, his brother Wishee Washee, and of course his mother Widow Twankey, on a spectacular adventure.

Expect flying carpets, a wish-granting genie, an evil sorcerer and a lampfull of laughs, so book your magic carpet ride to Malvern to the magical pantomime Aladdin! £12.32-£29.12 (including 12% booking fee)

Market theatre Tel: 07967 517125 SANTA IN SPACE! Thursday 16th - Saturday 25th January 2020. Despite its unusual title, you will find all the usual assortment of pantomime characters including the outrageous Dame Dangle and her nephew, principal boy, Captain Dick Daring, but this time the “baddy” is an alien - Vileun the Vile. Helped by his sidekicks, Astra, Null and Void, Vileun kidnaps Santa so he can gain control of earth and realise his plan to conquer the universe. Don’t despair: Dame Dangle and her friends launch themselves into space to track down Vileun and rescue Santa. There will be lots of adventures along the way and they will make new friends who will help them with their quest. Can they defeat Vileun, rescue Santa and return to earth? Book your tickets and you’ll find out – oh yes you will!!

Various times Tickets from £6

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Primary Times Christmas 2019

norbury theatre Tel: 01905 770154 CHILDREN’S THEATRE Saturday 21st December, 2:30pm & 4:00pm. The Norbury Players present an amateur production. A short play performed by adults especially for children aged 3 years plus. They make a fun birthday treat! Tickets £2.00

DICK WHITTINGTON & HIS CAT Thursday 9th - Sunday 12th, Thursday 16th - Sunday 19th & Thursday 23rd - Saturday 25th, January, 7:30pm. Matinée Saturday & Sunday 2:30pm. The Norbury players present an amateur production by arrangement with Ben Crocker Pantomimes Ltd. Written by Ben Crocker. The man became the myth when a play was written about him in 1606. The play was the basis for the stories we think we know about him; poor boy from the country goes to London - meets daughter of rich merchant – falls in love – nearly gives up but thinks the Bells are telling him to turn back – meets a cat! The original play told the story of Dick keeping the cat to keep the mice away in the attic where he sleeps. The merchant Fitzwarren goes on a sea voyage to find new treasures to import and the only thing Dick owns is his cat, so he gives the cat to Fitzwarren to control the mice on the boat. The country they eventually reach is overrun with mice (or rats!) and no one had ever seen a cat before. The cat killed the mice – the local King is so impressed that he wants to buy the cat and will pay any price – and Fitzwarren returns to give Dick the fortune that means he can marry Fitzwarrens’ daughter Alice. There are many versions of the Whittington story, ours is a fairly recent script but still has all the ingredients for great family entertainment – drama, fun, misunderstanding and of course romance. Tickets £12/10.

Number 8 Tel: 01386 555488 PERSHORE OPERATIC & DRAMATIC SOCIETY: ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND & THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS Monday 2nd - Saturday 7th December. PODS’ festive show, invites audiences of all ages to come and join Alice on her journey through Wonderland. The colourful, larger than life characters fill every scene with energy and laughter, in a show packed with popular songs from across the decades – some beautiful, some lively! A family show not to be missed! Suitable for ages 6+

palace theatre Tel: 01527 65203 CINDERELLA Monday 9th December 2019 - Sunday 5th January 2020.

Spend a fairy-tale Christmas with us at the best loved Pantomime of them all as we team up once more with Paul Holman Associates to bring you CINDERELLA. Poor Cinders, mistreated by her ugly sisters and forced to cook and clean for them, dreams of a better life. Her friend Buttons does his best to keep her spirits up but when her evil sisters rip up her invitation to Prince Charming’s Grand Ball all seems lost. But there is magic in the air and with the wave of her Fairy Godmother’s wand, Cinderella is transformed into a beautiful princess and sent to the ball on the understanding that she leaves before midnight when the enchantment will wear off. Romance soon blossoms when Cinderella, now disguised, meets and falls in love with Prince Charming... but as the Palace clock strikes twelve, the spell is broken and she rushes out of the ballroom leaving nothing behind her but a glass slipper.

Armed with this as the only clue to her identity Prince Charming sets out with the slipper to find the mysterious Princess and to make whoever the slipper fits his bride. This timeless tale of laughter, enchantment and true love will be packed with all the traditional pantomime ingredients you’ve come to expect from the Palace helped along with great big helpings of magic and stardust to make your festive season go with a swing. We are pleased to announce that Emmerdale’s Sapphire Elia will be playing our ‘rags to riches’

heroine Cinderella. With X Factor winner Ben Haenow taking on the role of Prince Charming and comedy Legend ‘G’ returns, having played Wishee Washee last year, as Buttons.

Cinderella’s two very ugly sisters Lav and Lou are brought frightfully to life by the Panto Award winning duo of Oliver Gray and Dean Horner. Various times Tickets from £17

The Regal Tel: 01584 811 442 SNOW WHITE Wednesday 18th December 2019 - Friday 3rd January 2020. “Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, Which is the Fairest Panto of them all? Why Snow White of course and her Seven Strong Team, It plays at The Regal in December ‘19”.

It’s Snow White’s turn to take up residence in Tenbury for your local professional pantomime. Snow White was told to never accept gifts from strangers but when she takes a bite of apple life turns upside down and she ends up in a strange house with seven even stranger men. Will her Prince find her? Come and join the panto fun as it’s off to work we go. A family ticket is 2 adults and 2 children aged 16 or under. Various times Tickets from £12

worcester live Tel: 01905 611427 SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Monday 2nd December 2019 Sunday 5th January 2020. Swan Theatre. Hi Ho, Hi Ho, it’s off to the Swan we go for another magical family pantomime! Join the Worcester Repertory Company for the highlight of the festive season as they melt hearts with one of the most enchanting pantomimes of them all, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Can beautiful Snow White escape the reaches of her evil Stepmother, the Wicked Queen Grizelda, and find safety with her seven trusty friends deep in the heart of the forest? Who is that old crone who comes bearing such a tempting red apple? And when all seems lost, can love’s first kiss save the day?

Packed full of panto treats galore, don’t miss this all-singing, all-dancing spectacular! Mirror, mirror on the wall – this will be the best panto of them all! Please note that there is a Relaxed Performance on Thursday 2nd January at 1pm Price: £13.95 - £17.95

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