Showing posts with label What's On. Show all posts
Showing posts with label What's On. Show all posts

Sunday 19 December 2021

The Snowman including We're Going on a Bear Hunt at Chester Cathedral - A Review

Yesterday we visited the beautiful Chester Cathedral to watch The Snowman Tour including We're Going on a Bear Hunt. We have enjoyed this spectacular performance for several years now and it has become a firm favourite in our family. It has definitely secured its place amongst our treasured festive traditions and my son Riley couldn't wait to watch the show again once more, along with being able to enjoy one of his favourite bedtime stories in animated form. 

The show began with a welcome from Santa who initiated a roll call of the orchestra members. As each section was called such as Woodwind or Brass, the musicians would play a short piece of music to introduce themselves. I felt that this was a great idea for the younger members of the audience in order to help them understand the different instruments that made up the orchestra, as well as making them aware of their associated sounds. 

© Snowman Enterprises Limited / © Bear Hunt Films Limited MMXVI

Once Santa had finished his Zoom Face call, the first animated piece of the performance appeared upon the screen - the wonderful story of We're Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen. The animation lasted approximately 25 minutes and told the story of a family who embark on an adventure to find a bear, whilst meeting various challenges along the way. I have read the story to my son numerous times over the years, so he was really excited to see it presented in an animation.

Following this, we were treated to the Snowman Waltz, which saw a lively Snowman walk around the Cathedral and wave to all the children. Riley really enjoyed this part and was really excited as he walked right in front of us. He enjoyed following his journey around the Cathedral and trying to spot whereabouts he was. It was great to hear all the exciteable laughter of the children in the audience.


As the Snowman character exited the main cathedral area, the lights dimmed once more and the audience fell silent again, as the moment we had all been waiting for commenced on the screen. From the moment the animation began, it felt truly magical, as The Snowman was brought to life upon the stage. I always try to make sure that I watch both the film and the orchestra at various intervals as I enjoy seeing the musicians perform, so I try and switch my focus between the two. I find that this really helps me to appreciate the music and the talented individuals on the stage.

When it came to the incredible song of We're Walking in the Air, I thought that the young soloist was absolutely superb with the most stunning of voices. My son was mesmerised as we watched him perform. I also felt that the conductor was marvellous in offering the soloist support throughout his performance with reassuring smiles and silently mouthing the words towards him just in case nerves got the better of him at any stage. I found this support quite heartwarming and I absolutely loved the encouragement on display.

Overall we had a really lovely time at Chester Cathedral watching The Snowman including We're Going on a Bear Hunt. It was a beautiful way to spend the afternoon together and the whole performance felt so Christmassy and special. I really enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere within the cathedral and I felt that the different parts of the show were presented well. The sound quality was excellent and we had no difficulty in hearing the different instruments and being able to focus on the various musical pieces. It was the perfect show to get us in the festive mood and we would absolutely recommend The Snowman Tour to families of all ages.

Image Credit © Gareth Widdowson

The full list of remaining tour dates can be found here - https://www.carrotproductions.com/snowman

If you would like to find out more about The Snowman Tour 2021 or about Carrot Productions, then you can visit their website or social media pages on the following channels:

Website - https://www.carrotproductions.com/

Facebook - facebook.com/carrotproductions

Twitter - @CarrotProd

Instagram - @carrot_productions

YouTube - CarrotProductions


*Disclaimer - We were provided with complimentary press tickets for the purpose of writing an honest review of our experience. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Details provided in this post are believed to be correct at the time of writing, but can be subject to change. I would therefore always recommend visiting the production's own website in order to obtain the most up to date information.

Thursday 7 February 2019

Dates for your Diary - Regal Entertainments presents The Wizard of Oz at St Helens Theatre Royal starring Linda Lusardi as The Wicked Witch - 6th to 22nd April 2019

Click your heels together and join Dorothy and Toto as they journey along the Yellow Brick Road with new friends Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion, to meet the Wizard so he can make their dreams come true.

Regal Entertainments production of The Wizard of Oz will be returning to St Helen's Theatre Royal this Easter between Saturday 6th April and Monday 22nd April 2019 following sell out seasons in 2016, 2017 and 2018, as well as a hugely successful Merseyside tour in 2017.

The show, complete with a brand-new script and music for 2019, will feature dazzling costumes and sets, show-stopping choreography and unbelievable special effects, which audiences have come to know and love from all Regal Entertainments' productions.

It has also recently been announced that star of stage and screen, Linda Lusardi, will be playing the role of The Wicked Witch in this wonderful pantomime, in a production that is sure to entertain families of all ages.

Linda Lusardi's career has spanned nearly 30 years, after first rising to fame in the 80's. Her major TV roles have included playing Carrie Nichols in ITV's Emmerdale, Maggie Lyons in The Bill and Frankie in Brookside. She has also appeared on numerous reality TV shows such as ITV's Loose Women, Dancing on Ice 2008, Come Dine With Me and Celebrity Masterchef 2011.

Her leading stage roles include; Funny Peculiar, Bedside Manners, Not Now Darling, No Sex Please We're British, and Rock with Laughter. She is also no stranger to panto and has played roles up and down the country since 1988. In her latest production she received five star reviews appearing as The Wicked Queen in Snow White at The Playhouse Weston Super Mare, which also broke box office records.

St Helen's Theatre Royal Manager, Chantelle Nolan said: "We are delighted to announce Linda Lusardi as our Wicked Witch - she has had such a prolific career and is a seasoned panto pro. I know audiences of St Helens will love her - when they're not booing her that is.

"The Wizard of Oz is a real favourite with our audiences, and I am certain they will love this brand-new version which includes a new script and lots of wonderful new songs to sing and dance to."

For further information on this wonderful Easter pantomime, please visit the St Helen's Theatre Royal website or their social media pages which can be found on the following channels:

Website - www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com/St-Helens-Theatre-Royal
Twitter - @TheatreRoyalStH

Listing Details

Event - Regal Entertainments presents The Wizard of Oz
Dates - Saturday 6th April to Monday 22nd April 2019
Times - Monday to Friday 1pm / Saturday & Sunday 1pm & 5pm
Tickets - From £13*

All prices are inclusive of a £1 per seat transaction fee. On-line bookings are subject to an additional 50p per seat on-line processing fee.

Disclaimer: This post is written based on a press release provided by BEA. All details provided believed to be correct at the time of writing, but are subject to change. I would therefore always recommend visiting the venue's own website in order to obtain the most up to date information.

Wednesday 11 July 2018

Dates for your Diary - A Whole Host of Family Fun at the Epstein Theatre, Liverpool

With the summer holidays fast approaching, The Epstein Theatre has a fantastic selection of exciting family entertainment with theatrical experiences that are certain to keep the whole family entertained throughout the school holidays and beyond!

On Monday 23rd and Tuesday 24th July, the Liverpool based Theatre Company Cuckootales present an enchanting new play Pinocchio: The Boy Within. Set to an original musical underscore, the production is a modern retelling of a classic tale, which is not to be missed.

Join a tiny snail on an enormous adventure from Wednesday 25th to Friday 27th July as Olivier Award nominated Tall Stories presents their magical musical production, The Snail and the Whale.

Take a trip down the rabbit hole on Thursday 2nd and Friday 3rd August for an unforgettable retelling of Lewis Carroll's classic tale Alice in Wonderland. This panto-esque style show guarantees entertainment for the whole family.

Milkshake! Live "The Magic Storybook" takes audiences on a journey through the world's favourite fairytales on Sunday 5th August. Starring Milkshake! favourites; Bob the Builder, Little Princess, Noddy, Fireman Sam, Shimmer & Shine, Pip from Pip Ahoy!, Winnie and Wilbur, Wissper, Milkshake's very own Milkshake! Monkey and two Milkshake! presenters.


The family fun continues into the Autumn when critically acclaimed Scamp Theatre present Stick Man on Saturday 6th October. The award-winning production is packed full of puppetry, songs and live music.

How to Hide a Lion provides a magical adaptation of Helen Stephen's popular children's book on Sunday 14th October. See the story come to life with playful humour, dazzling puppets and jazz.

The timeless tale Guess How Much I Love You comes to the Epstein stage on Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th October. This family favourite is brought to life by Selladoor Family and guarantees feel good family theatre.

Heigh ho, heigh ho it's off to the Epstein we go this Christmas. It is never too early to grab your panto tickets, (oh no it isn't), and this year's festive offering from renowned LHK Productions is the fairest panto in all the land, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. With a star-studded cast to be announced very soon, it comes to the Epstein Theatre from Friday 7th December 2018 to Tuesday 1st January 2019.


Book your tickets in advance for this amazing array of family friendly theatre which is sure to sell out fast.

Listing Information

Pinocchio: The Boy Within
Date: Monday 23rd and Tuesday 24th July.
Times: 23rd - 2pm & 6pm, 24th - 11am, 3pm & 7pm
Tickets: Standard £10, Concession £9, Family £35

The Snail and the Whale
Date: Wednesday 25th to Friday 27th July
Time: 25th at 4pm, 26th & 27th at 11am & 2pm
Tickets: Standard £14, Concession £12, Family £48

Alice in Wonderland
Date: Thursday 2nd & Friday 3rd August
Times: 2nd at 2:30pm, 3rd at 1pm & 5:30pm
Tickets: Standard £15, Concessions £13, Family £52

Milkshake! Live "The Magic Storybook"
Date: Sunday 5th August
Time: 12pm and 3:30pm
Tickets: Standard £15.50, Children £14, Family Ticket £56

Stick Man
Date: Saturday 6th October
Times: 1pm & 3:30pm
Tickets: Adult £14.50, Children £12.50, Family Ticket (2 adults & 2 children) £50

How to Hide a Lion
Date: Sunday 14th October
Time: 1pm
Tickets: Standard £14.50, Children £12.50, Family Ticket £50

Guess How Much I Love You
Date: Tuesday 16th & Wednesday 17th October
Time: 16th at 1:30pm & 4:30pm, 17th at 11am & 1:30pm
Tickets: Adults £13.50, Children £12.50, Family Ticket £45

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Date: Friday 7th December 2018 to Tuesday 1st January 2019
Times: Various
Tickets: From £11

To book tickets please call 0844 888 4411* or go online at www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk* or in person at The Epstein Theatre Box Office from 12pm - 6pm Monday to Saturday.

* Subject to booking fee. All prices include a £1 per ticket venue restoration levy.

For more details check out www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk and join their mailing list. Alternatively you can follow them on Facebook or Twitter using the following channels:

Facebook - www.facebook.com/EpsteinTheatre
Twitter - @EpsteinTheatre

Disclaimer: Details provided are correct at time of writing, however listings can be subject to change. I would therefore always recommend visiting the venue's own website in order to obtain the most up to date information.

Thursday 5 July 2018

Mamma Mia! at Palace Theatre, Manchester - A Review

MAMMA MIA! has arrived in Manchester, whilst embarking on its current UK tour and what a fabulous feel-good musical it is! The show first opened at the Prince Edward Theatre some 19 years ago now and also recently celebrated its 17th anniversary in London's West End. Having achieved worldwide success MAMMA MIA! is everything you could hope for in a musical and more. After watching the show last night, I can now completely understand how it has gained such popularity around the globe.

Featuring an all round wonderful cast, the show tells the story of a young lady called Sophie, played by Lucy May Barker, who throughout her life has been unaware of who her father really is. Sophie finds her mother's diary and discovers that there are three men that could all potentially be her dad, so she reveals to her bridesmaids that she has invited each of them to her wedding.

Sophie believes that she will soon know which of them is her father, however on meeting them she soon realises that it will not be as simple as first imagined. Each man has their very own individual traits and personalities, with interests and mannerisms that could also be reflected in Sophie, making her quest appear an impossible task. In turn this also leads to Sophie's mum Donna (Shona White) having to face her past and we are led through a charming, delightful and funny story that is told through the songs of Abba.

Admittedly I have never seen this musical before, nor have I ever watched the film and I was therefore intrigued by the storyline and how the songs of Abba could collectively tell a tale. This soon become apparent though and the combination of drama and well known songs had the audience both captivated and singing along from start to finish.

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff/Mãgenburg

Sophie's chemistry with Sky (Phillip Ryan) was superb and they worked extremely well together on stage. Supported by a wonderful ensemble, all acts were delivered with slick professionalism and perfectly timed choreography that just made you want to get up and dance with them.

Donna's best friends Rosie (Nicky Swift) and Tanya (Helen Anker) provide plenty of laughter and when on stage together there was a genuine feel of friendship and sisterhood. Once we were also introduced to Sophie's three potential fathers, another comedic element was established. Tamlyn Henderson stars as Sam Carmichael, Daniel Crowder as Harry Bright and Matthew Rutherford as Bill Austin, and each actor exhibited both individuality and creativeness that brought a great deal of amusement to the audience.

There were certainly some stand out performances, with Helen Anker's rendition of 'Does Your Mother Know' proving to be very popular and rightly so. This scene not only possessed fantastic vocals and some very memorable dancing, but it was also packed full of fun that made you laugh out loud.

Shona White certainly shone like the star she is, with some breathtaking performances during the show. Her character as the mother Donna Sheridan seems well suited and I loved that through her fiesty and independent personality she also exhibited moments of insecurity and emotion, which made her portrayal completely believeable. My personal favourite though was when she sang 'The Winner Takes It All' and her vocals were absolutely superb. There is no doubt at all that she can certainly hold a note, and I looked forward to each time that she appeared on stage.

A special mention also has to be given to Matt Jordan-Pidgeon as Pepper whose cheeky and confident persona provided plenty of entertainment. His beaming smile and facial expressions, superbly complimented his enthusiastic performances and made him a very likeable character.

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff/Mãgenburg
Overall I highly recommend this show and the standing ovation at the end was very well deserved. Everyone was on their feet clapping and dancing along and the aisles were full of audience members having a great time and just loving life. If a production is capable of bringing a smile to so many faces then it has absolutely done it's job. Well done to all the cast and crew involved in Mamma Mia! for not only a wonderful performance, but for the happiness you created throughout the theatre. Bravo!

You can catch MAMMA MIA! at the Palace Theatre, Manchester until the 14th July with a signed performance and audio described performance also available. Full listing details below.

Listing Details

Show: MAMMA MIA!
Venue: Palace Theatre Manchester
Dates: Thursday 5th July 2018 to Saturday 14th July 2018
Time: Show times vary, so please visit the ATG Tickets Palace Theatre Website to obtain the most up to date information.
Signed performance: Wednesday 11th July 2018 at 19:30pm
Audio described performance: Thursday 12th July 2018 at 19:30pm
Running time: 2 hours 35 minutes including interval
Ticket prices: Prices vary but range from £15 to £61.50 (plus transaction fee). Please see website for pricing.
Website: ATG Tickets

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff/Mãgenburg
Disclaimer: I received press tickets for the purpose of writing an honest review of the show. Thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thursday 7 June 2018

Dates for your Diary - What The Ladybird Heard Live on Stage at The Lowry 1st-26th August 2018

Based on the best-selling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, Kenny Wax Family Entertainment in association with Matthew Gregory presents What The Ladybird Heard Live on stage at The Lowry from Wednesday 1st to Sunday 26th of August.

Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird and a whole farmyard of fun!


What The Ladybird Heard Live comes to the Lowry from Wednesday 1st to Sunday 26th of August as part of a major UK and international tour direct from the West End.

Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer's fine prize cow. But they reckon without the tiniest, quietest creature of all: the Ladybird has a plan of her own.

Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog as they take on the villains in this hit musical stage adaptation of What The Ladybird Heard by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, published by Macmillan Children's Books. This action packed 55-minute adventure has original songs, live music, puppetry, plenty of audience participation and lots of laughs, making it the perfect treat for families with children aged three and up.

Julia Donaldson says of the show: "I love the songs, the farmer's song at the beginning is wonderful and the lovely, lively acting set against Lydia's [Monks] farmyard is a joy".

The cast includes: Emma Breton - Farmer, Emma Carroll - Lily/Ladybird, Edward Way - Hefty Hugh, Benedict Hastings - Lanky Len and Will Steele - Understudy/Assistant Stage Manager.

The creatives include: Graham Hubbard - Director and Adapter, Bek Palmer - Set & Costume Design, Lydia Monks - Design Consultant, Ric Mountjoy - Lighting Design, John Fiber and Andy Shaw - Composers and Sound Design for JollyGoodTunes.

Listing Details

Show: What The Ladybird Heard Live
Venue: The Lowry
Address: Pier 8, Salford Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ
Dates: Wednesday 1st August to Sunday 26th August 2018 (excluding Mondays)
Times: 11am & 2pm
Tickets: £16
Age guidance: Recommended for ages 3+
Website: The Lowry

Photo Credit: Michael Jean-Marain

Disclaimer: Details provided are correct at time of writing, but are subject to change. I would therefore always recommend visiting venue's own website, in order to obtain the most up to date information.

Tuesday 17 October 2017

Dates for your Diary - Peter Pan at the Epstein Theatre

The swashbuckling adventure of LHK Productions' panto Peter Pan, comes to the Epstein Theatre this Christmas from Friday 8th December to Monday 1st January 2018.

Children and adults alike will be whisked away on a sensational journey to Neverland this Christmas. With a sprinkle of fairy dust from Tinkerbell, join Peter, Wendy and The Lost Boys on an adventure full of Pirates, Mermaids, Indians and a devious tick-tocking croc, in this enchanting story of the boy who never grew up.

Headlining Peter Pan is Another Level's Dane Bowers, who will have audiences hooked this festive season as Captain Hook. Dane began his career as a member of Another Level, one of the most successful boy bands of the 90's - achieving several platinum selling albums and singles. He has also made appearances on Celebrity Big Brother, Celebrity Come Dine with Me and ITV's The Big Reunion, which saw him form a supergroup boy band with the likes of Gareth Gates.

Photo credit: David Munn Photography

Set to take audiences by storm is Liverpool's own Lewis Pryor who will be playing the lead role of Peter Pan. Lewis appeared in the 2016 series of Britain's Got Talent, finishing 3rd place in the Live Finals as a member of dance troupe Boogie Storm. Supporting Peter Pan will be Radio City 2's Claire Simmo, starring as the lovable Tinkerbell.

No LHK Production would be complete without everyone's favourite dame, Michael Chapman, who returns for 2017 as the Darling Family Cook and is guaranteed to bring his usual hysterical capers and comedy antics. New cast additions also include the incredibly talented Joanne Harper as Wendy Darling and local performer Georgia Austin as Tiger Lily.

As ever, audiences can expect a huge production from LHK Productions with dazzling sets, sparkling costumes, laugh-a-minute scripts, brilliant songs and exquisite trade-mark choreography that everyone has come to know and love from Liverpool's acclaimed panto production company!

Listing Details

Dates - Friday 8th December 2017 to Monday 1st January 2018
Venue - The Epstein Theatre, Hanover House, 85 Hanover Street, Liverpool, L1 3DZ
Times - Times vary, please visit www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk for more information.

Tickets
Opening night ticket offer: Friday 8th December all tickets £13
Special Offer: Tuesday 26th December 5pm & Sunday 31st December 5:30pm all tickets £15
Sat & Sun performances and Monday 1st January (excluding 31/12 5:30pm performance): Adult £19/ Concession £17/ Family £63
All other performances: Adult £18/ Concession £16/ Family £59
Limited number of £11 tickets available on all performances (except Fri 8th Dec 7pm, Tue 26th Dec 5pm and Sun 31st Dec 5:30pm).

*Subject to booking fee. All prices include a £1 per ticket venue restoration levy.

How to Book

Call 0844 888 4411, visit www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk or book in person at the theatre box office (open 2pm-6pm Mon-Thu & 12pm-6pm Fri-Sat).

Alternatively you can book via ticketquarter on 0844 8000 410 or visit www.ticketquarter.co.uk

Disclaimer: Information correct at time of writing, but can be subject to change. I would therefore always recommend visiting the venues own website to obtain the most up to date information.

Sunday 8 October 2017

Dates for your Diary - Manchester's Biggest Indoor Christmas Attraction is Back!

One of our favourite annual events on the festive calendar has to be Winter Wonderland, which is a wonderful indoor attraction, held at EventCity, next to the Intu Trafford Centre Manchester. This fabulous family event will be returning for it's fifth consecutive year and looks set to be the very best yet.

The giant 22,000sqm exhibition space at EventCity will be transformed into an unbelievable wonderland extravaganza, featuring over 50 family rides and attractions all under one roof.  As well as the rides and the bright lights, there will be a dazzling array of colourful shows and this year, Winter Wonderland is delighted to welcome the nation's favourite children's TV characters Zippy and George from Rainbow, who will no doubt bring lots of magic, mayhem and comedy capers!

The spectacular Christmas Circus will also be making a welcome return and is sure to have audiences marvelled and amazed with their daily performances.

Santa Claus and his reindeer will also be taking time out from their busy schedule for meet and greets with all the children, every day up to and including Christmas Eve. In addition to all of this, there will also be fairies and elves on hand to chat and play with the children, a host of games stalls and an array of food and drinks stalls where you can purchase hot snacks or sweet treats.


Winter Wonderland operates on a session basis to ensure that visitors can enjoy the experience without overcrowding, offering families four hours of non-stop fun and entertainment. Organisers Kingpin Events are urging families to book now to make sure that they don't miss out on this magical festive family adventure and to ensure they secure tickets for their preferred date. Last years event saw record ticket sales of 100,000, so it is sure to be popular once more for 2017!

Group, family and individual tickets are on sale now for this wonderful Winter Wonderland event, which is guaranteed to create that enchanting Christmas spirit and spread joy across the whole of Manchester.

You can book your tickets now at www.winterwonderlandmanchester.com

Listing Details

Event - Winter Wonderland Manchester
Venue - EventCity (next to Intu Trafford Centre), Phoenix Way, Off Barton Dock Road, Urmston, Manchester, M41 7TB. Free Parking Available.

Ticket Prices - 
Adult £20.50 (plus £1.50 Quaytickets booking fee)
Child (3-16) £20.50 (plus £1.50 Quaytickets booking fee)
Family of 4 (2 ad + 2 ch or 1 ad + 3ch) £70 (plus £1.50 Quaytickets booking fee per person so total fee of £6)
OAP £15.00 (plus £1.50 Quaytickets booking fee)
Under 3's are Free (Ticket not required).
Groups 10% discount (when booking 15+ tickets)
School rate: £9.50 per child (under 12's) with some teachers free from Tuesday 13th to Friday 16th December (morning session only).

All rides and attractions are included in the ticket price (excluding games and food stalls) and each session lasts for 4 hours.

Session Times - 

December     
Sat 9th & Sun 10th: 11am-3pm and 4:30pm-8:30pm
Tue 12th, Wed 13th & Thurs 14th: 10:30am-2:30pm
Fri 15th: 10:30am-2:30pm and 5pm-9pm
Sat 16th & Sun 17th: 11am-3pm and 4:30pm-8:30pm
Mon 18th & Tue 19th: 10:30am-2:30pm
Wed 20th: 10:30am-2:30pm and 4:30pm-8:30pm
Thurs 21st, Fri 22nd & Sat 23rd: 11am-3pm and 4:30pm-8:30pm
Tue 26th: 1pm-5pm
Wed 27th, Thurs 28th, Fri 29th & Sat 30th: 11am-3pm and 4:30pm-8:30pm
Sun 31st: 11am-3pm

January
Mon 1st: 1pm-5pm

To book please visit www.winterwonderlandmanchester.com or alternatively you can make a booking by telephone on 0843 208 1842. For group bookings please call 0843 208 6003.

Disclaimer: Details can be subject to change, so I would always recommend visiting the events own website to obtain the most up to date information.

Friday 6 October 2017

Dates for your Diary - Christmas at Dunham Massey

My family and I absolutely love attending Christmas events and we are always on the look out for something new and exciting to visit. Like most families, Christmas is a really magical time for us, so we try and enjoy as many festive activities as we can together, in the run up to Christmas Day.

We were therefore really excited to find out about a brand new Christmas Light trail, which will be at Dunham Massey in Cheshire, from the 1st to 30th December 2017. This magical, after-dark illuminated trail, will be brought to you by leading events producers Raymond Gubbay, in partnership with the National Trust and will see Dunham Massey transformed into a beautiful winter wonderland.

The trail has been specially designed to appeal to visitors of all ages and there is something for everyone at this festive time of year, as the one mile sparkling path winds its way through the historic Dunham Massey woodland. Greeted by the sights and sounds of Christmas, visitors will wander beneath tree canopies that will be illuminated in seasonal shards of light and larger-than-life snowflakes and baubles.


Father Christmas sees you on your way through twinkling tunnels and a swaying lawn of colour reflected in the water. Duck between sparkling hedgerows, discover the Singing Trees rising high into the night sky and experience Pealight Heaven, a canopy of over 100,000 fairy lights. Once you reach the festive finale, you can take a moment to pause and enjoy the brightly coloured water jets dancing in time to some much loved Christmas classics.

Complete your stroll under the stars with a hot drink or some mulled wine, enjoy a ride on the vintage carousel* , toast your own marshmallows at one of the fire pits, or even take the opportunity to do a spot of Christmas shopping in Dunham Massey's shop.

*Separate charges apply.

For further details please visit: National Trust - Dunham Massey

Listing Details

Event - Christmas at Dunham Massey, the magical, after-dark, illuminated trail

Location - Dunham Massey, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 4SJ

Dates - 1st December to 30th December

Admission

Advance - Adult £16.00, Child (5-16) £10.00, Family £48.00
On the day - Adult £18.00, Child (5-16) £12.00, Family £56.00
National Trust Member - Adults £14.50, Child (5-16) £8.50, Family £42.00


Disclaimer: Details correct at time of writing, but can be subject to change. Therefore please always check the events own website for the most up to date information.

Sunday 1 October 2017

Dates for your Diary - Slava's Snowshow Brings a Blizzard to The Lowry Auditorium

Slava's Snowshow, produced by Matthew Gale and Mark Goucher, returns to The Lowry, Salford this autumn from Tuesday 24th to Sunday 29th October. The multi-award winning show offers a combination of theatrical clowning and a stunning visual spectacle, which is sure to entertain and enchant the audience.

The world-renowned company of clowns is led by Slava Polunin, Artistic Director of the St Petersburg Circus, who recently visited the UK to launch his new book Alchemy of Snowness. The book follows Slava's artistic journey and exhilarating exploration in his creation of "a show that would bring us back to our childhood dreams; a show which would help spectators be released from the jail of adulthood and rediscover their forgotten childhood."

The show first premiered in the UK at the Edinburgh Festival in 1994, and has since toured all over the country, picking up a host of awards along the way. Slava's Snowshow is the internationally acclaimed winner of the Time Out, Olivier and Drama Desk Awards for the most unique theatrical experience.

Influenced by artists such as Chaplin, Marcel Marceau and Engibarov, Slava and his company have taken clowning out of the world of circus and brought it to theatre lovers, fellow practitioners and families worldwide. It's global popularity has seen the show perform in 80 cities including New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Rome, Hong Kong, Rio de Janeiro and Moscow, so don't miss your opportunity to watch it at The Lowry, Salford this October.

Listing Details

Slava's Snowshow
Venue - The Lyric Theatre
Box Office Address: The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ
Dates: Tuesday 24th - 29th October 2017
Times: 7pm with 2pm performances available on Wed, Thurs, Sat, Sun.
Running time: 2 hours including interval.
Tickets: £13.50 - £41.50 (including booking fee)

To book tickets please visit The Lowry website here: The Lowry or alternatively contact the box office on 0843 208 6000


Disclaimer: Information correct at time of writing but could be subject to change. I would therefore always recommend visiting the theatres own website to gain the most up to date information.

Thursday 21 September 2017

Dates for your Diary - The Snowman Flies into Manchester this November

The Snowman is flying into Opera House Manchester this Christmas to delight audiences both young and old. Based on the book by Raymond Briggs, the film directed by Diane Jackson, and produced by John Coates, The Snowman will be heading to the stage with a wonderful mix of storytelling, spectacle and magic.

The Snowman comes to Opera House Manchester, from Wednesday 8th November through to Sunday 12th November 2017. The enchanting show will take families on a journey to the wintry world of a boy and his magical snowman, and will tell the story of a young boy's adventures, when his snowman miraculously comes to life on Christmas Eve.

 Photo Credit - Tristram Kenton

The show features a dazzling array of colourful characters including dancing penguins, magical reindeer, a beautiful Snow Princess, her wicked beau Jack Frost, and of course, Father Christmas himself. The Snowman is a Christmas treat for all the family and a perfect introduction to theatre and dance for the very young. Since it's premiere at Birmingham Repertory Theatre in 1993, the live stage show of The Snowman has been seen by more than one million people worldwide, and has thrilled audiences at London's Peacock Theatre for a record-breaking 20 years.

The Birmingham Repertory Theatre production features music and lyrics by Howard Blake (performed by a live orchestra), choreography by Robert North, direction by Bill Alexander, design by Ruari Murchison, and lighting by Tim Mitchell. The iconic song Walking in the Air will feature in a new arrangement by Howard Blake and sung by Aled Jones duetting with his younger (recorded) self, as released on Aled's chart topping Classic FM album, One Voice at Christmas.

The Snowman first appeared as a beautifully illustrated picture book by Raymond Briggs in 1978. It subsequently inspired the classic Oscar-nominated and BAFTA award-winning animated film featuring Howard Blake's wonderful score. It was first transmitted by Channel 4 on Christmas Eve 35 years ago.

Photo Credit - Herbie Knott

The film's signature song Walking in the Air reached number 3 in the UK charts when sung by choirboy Aled Jones in 1985, and the song was voted number 2 in a poll conducted by Classic FM to find out children's favourite pieces of classical music - beating Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf, and Tchaikovsky's Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy among others.

The Snowman is presented by arrangement with Snowman Enterprises Limited (A Penguin Company) and Chester Music Limited.

You can book now at ATG Tickets or by calling the box office on 0844 871 3018

Listing Details

The Birmingham Repertory Theatre Production of The SnowmanTM  

Venue: Opera House Manchester, 3 Quay Street, Manchester, M3 3HP

Wednesday 8th November 2017 - 7pm
Thursday 9th November 2017 - 10:30am and 2:30pm
Friday 10th November 2017 - 7pm
Saturday 11th November 2017 - 1:30pm and 5pm
Sunday 12th November 2017 - 11am and 3pm

Tickets: From £15*

To book please contact the box office on 0844 871 3018 or visit the website ATG Tickets

*Booking transaction fee applies.


Saturday 15 July 2017

Liverpool Pride Festival Announce the Return of 'We Are Family' Programme

Free fun filled family friendly community focused Sunday event returns with headline act Marcus Collins plus tons of fun family activities!

We are family returns to Liverpool Pride for a second year this July following the rapturous response received from last year's event. The free family event drew a huge crowd in its first year and is set to come back bigger and better for 2017.

The fun filled day will be held at St George's Quarter on Sunday 30th July between 11am and 5pm and Liverpool Pride are inviting families of all ages from across the Liverpool City Region to join the celebration with an afternoon filled with fun activities, workshops and a jam-packed programme of live entertainment.

Families attending can enjoy a whole host of fun activities including inflatables, fairground rides, international dance and arts and crafts stalls. There will also be international food stalls and bars across the festival site serving up a range of tasty treats.

Headlining the Barclays main stage is Liverpool local Marcus Collins who shot to fame in 2011 when he appeared on popular ITV talent search The XFactor. Most recently Marcus appeared in smash hit musical Kinky Boots on London's West End.

Promising to put on a great show for his hometown audience Marcus said, "I cannot wait to headline the Sunday Stage this year and look forward to meeting new and old friends for what is going to be an incredible family weekend." 

Joining Marcus on Sunday's line up are boyband 5 to 5 who will perform a medley of songs from upcoming musical The Band. Don't miss your chance to see an exclusive preview of songs from the smash hit musical before it goes on tour, which includes Liverpool Empire Theatre next January.

Returning to Liverpool Pride for 2017 is Jennifer John & Merseyside Choirs. Jennifer has been working closely with choirs from across the Liverpool City Region to create a choral performance based around this year's Liverpool Pride theme of International Love. Audiences are invited to sing along to classics that celebrate the theme of the weekend.

Headline sponsor Barclays will also be holding free informative sessions for children and parents. Code Playground offers a fun way to learn the basics of coding. The 2-hour session is designed for children aged 7-17 to learn the basics and develop digital skills for the future, book a place by visiting bit.ly/LiverpoolPrideCP. Whilst DigiSafe in Cyber Space offers guidance on everything needed to master the digital world. Providing tips and guidance on how to stay safe on-line including fun and interactive activities, hints on social media privacy settings, advice on pop-ups, and tips on recognising fraudulent emails, visit bit.ly/LiverpoolPrideTT to book a place.

We Are Family was launched by Liverpool Pride Festival in 2016 in acknowledgement of family and friends from the wider community who support the LGBT+ movement. The event allows the LGBT+ community to open the doors of the Pride Festival to all communities, friends and family, allowing them to join in the Pride celebrations through a range of activities and performances spreading a message of acceptance and equality.

Michael Carey, from Liverpool Pride Festival, said: "We are very excited to bring back We Are Family for its second year. Last year's event was a huge success, it was great to see residents from all over the Liverpool City Region come together for a celebration of all things LGBT+. In the 50th year since the legislation of homosexuality it seems even more poignant to stand side by side with the wider community in celebration of the City's diversity."

Liverpool Pride Festival 2017 offers a week-long programme of activity which culminates with a two-day event on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th July. The festival is returning for its second year to Liverpool's iconic St George's Quarter and features the well-established Liverpool Pride March on the Saturday.

Liverpool Pride Festival is now a key highlight in the city's Summer events programme, attracting more than 25,000 people each year to attend, take part and support the annual LGBT Festival.

Keep up to date with Liverpool Pride's new announcements at:

Facebook LiverpoolPride
Twitter @LiverpoolPride