Issue 29_Winter 2017

’S T A H W

IDE U G ON

30,000 copies for Parents, Teachers & Children

Cumbria

B OOK ONLINE AT

RHEGED.COM

Inside this issue: Pantomime Feature, Stage & Screen, Where’s Santa?

1 - www.primarytimes.net/cumbria Issue 29 – primarytimescumbria Winter Edition –Nov 27th to Jan 28th 2018

Don’t Let Flu Spoil Your Festive Celebrations.

Flu cases tend to rise as the weather gets colder but it is not too late to get your child vaccinated against flu.

Flu can be a very unpleasant illness in children as they suffer the same symptoms as adults including fever, chills and aching muscles and some may need to go to hospital for treatment.

The best way to protect your child from flu is by having them vaccinated. This not only offers protection to them, but also to more vulnerable family members such as grandparents and others in our communities. The good news is many eligible children in our local area have already had a seasonal flu vaccination.

There are still, however, many local children that have not yet taken up this opportunity.

All children aged 2 and 3 years old on the 31st August 2017 and older children with certain long term conditions are eligible for a free flu vaccination at their GP. It is not too late! Contact the GP today to make an appointment.

For most children, the vaccine is given as a nasal spray. The vaccine has been used over the last four years in the UK where millions of children have been successfully and safely vaccinated. It is safe, quick, effective and painless.

Strains of flu can vary from year to year, and protection from the vaccine may only last for 6 months, so even if your child was vaccinated last year it is important that they are protected for this coming season.

Don’t forget, the vaccination is available free on the NHS. For more information on the children’s flu vaccination programme, go to www.nhs.uk/ Conditions/vaccinations/Pages/ child-flu-vaccine.aspx

Welcome to your Winter edition Well, Christmas is nearly upon us again, are you ready for it?

In this, the last edition of 2017, you will find a run down of Santa’s pre Christmas Eve itinerary so that you can pop along to see him, drop off your letter and maybe get an early present.

Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a pantomime and our feature on page 13 tells you all about the history of the panto, followed on page 15 with listings of where your favourite pantos are being shown across the county.

We hope you all have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Finally, a huge thank you to the schools and their staff who kindly distribute this magazine to you on our behalf.

We’ll see you in 2018.

2 - www.primarytimes.net/cumbria

primarytimescumbria

CONTENTS Where’s Santa?

4&5

Pantomime. Oh No It Isn't!

13

Stage & Screen

15

CONTacTS Editor: Sales:

Clare Townsend admin@primarytimescumbria.co.uk 08456 432735 Alli Simon sales@primarytimescumbria.co.uk 08456 432730

Urgent need for foster carers Right now across Cumbria there is an urgent need for more foster carers to provide supportive, safe and happy homes for children.

Cumbria County Council already support over 200 foster families, but with more than 600 children needing foster families they are always looking for more people to join in.

We are now taking bookings for 2018

If you have room to spare in your home and a lifestyle that has room for a child, then why not become part of Cumbria’s biggest family?

Barrow’s Chris and Heather Torkington have been fostering for eight years. Heather said: "I cannot think of a more rewarding job, even though I do not see it as a job, it’s an opportunity to give a young person a loving, caring upbringing. When you see them come through the door at first and then see how different they are later on, it's very rewarding. There's really nothing like it, but we need more people to see that and give it a go."

If you would like to advertise your business to 30,000 Cumbrian families seven times a year then get in touch!

If you think you have what it takes, find out more at www.cumbria.gov.uk/fostering, call 0303 333 1216 or come to one of our information events (for event details see our advert in this issue).

Cumbria County Council

Thinking about

Fostering?

Become part of Cumbria’s biggest family

www.cumbria.gov.uk/fostering

There’s an urgent need for more foster carers across Cumbria now. If you think you have what it takes but would like to find out more, why not attend one of our information events?: Barrow and Ulverston Forum Theatre, Barrow LA14 1HH Monday 18 December Fostering drop-in event, 12pm to 4pm Friday 22 December Fostering drop-in event, 12pm to 4pm Carlisle - Crown and Mitre Hotel, English Street, Carlisle CA3 8HZ Wednesday 7 February - Information Event, 6pm to 8pm Penrith - George Hotel, Devonshire Street, Penrith CA11 7SU Saturday 10 February - Information Event, 2pm to 4pm

0303 333 1216

primarytimescumbria

www.primarytimes.net/cumbria - 3

868000. £10 per child which includes the Santa experience, a present, activities in the elves workshop and new for this year a 4×6 mounted photograph with Santa.

from his Toy Store. Our Grotto is run in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Carlisle South. Ticket price of just £7.50 per child includes an accompanying adult. Additional adults are £2 each. Due to space restrictions there is a maximum of 3 Hayes Garden World, Lake Road, additional adults per booking.

Ambleside Please be aware that there will be Hawkshead Village Santa’s Winter Wonderland multiple children booked within Hawkshead Christmas Fair Santa has arrived in his magical A fabulous weekend of festive spirit each 30-minute slot - the timings Winter Wonderland where he will simply allow us to manage the in the delightful village of be delighted to see all the girls & queue for you. Bookings can be Hawkshead.

Craft and local produce boys. Step through the wardrobe to made via the Houghton Hall Garden stalls, seasonal food and drinks, our winter wonderland, meet our Centre website.

Christmas carols and lantern lion, the Ice Queen and all our procession, street entertainment woodland friends. See if you can throughout the weekend and, of find the paw prints to all our course, Father Christmas. Everyone Debenhams, Lanes Shopping animals. Throw snowballs for the Centre, Carlisle welcome. polar bear & search for a key to Breakfast with Santa open the cupboard and see what’s The Gincase, Mawbray Hayrigg, Starts at 9.30am. Families will be inside!! Finally visit Santa for your able to choose from a range of special gift. £10 per child, inclusive Silloth Santa's Grotto breakfast dishes. Entertainment of visit to Santa, present and A visit to Santa’s Grotto at The and games will be provided before instant photo. To book visit Gincase is a must for the festive a visit from the big man himself at www.hayesgardenworld.co.uk or season, and will really start the 10am. Tickets are available for just call 015394 33434. countdown to Christmas. Santa’s £5 per child at the restaurant and Grotto is a wonderful experience price includes hot breakfast, for both children and adults alike. entertainment and a gift. For more Santa has his own very snug grotto information pop in store. Also 9th, where he will greet every child 16th and 23rd December. individually or as a family if you Kirby Lonsdale Town Centre wish, and spend time chatting with No 17 Restaurant & Lounge, Christmas Fair Weekend them. We do need each child to be Milnthorpe This year we will be creating a booked in so Santa is able to find a Milnthorpe's Christmas chalet village again in the heart of special present for them. Tickets Formerly known as Christmas on the town for the Christmas fair are £9 per child and include entry the Green, Milnthorpe's Christmas weekend - we have added more to the Farm Park and the Play Barn. is a community organised event chalets taking the total to 22! In For more information visit that will include performances from addition, we'll have local food www.gincase.co.uk. local acts, market stalls, Christmas suppliers with an array of hot food crafts, face paints, lucky dip and and drinks to tempt you. The Walby Farm Park, Crosby-onSanta’s Grotto. wooden chalets will be clustered Eden, Carlisle around the market monument The Lanes Shopping Centre, Walby’s Christmas Experience offering shoppers a wide range of Carlisle Do you believe in making your gift items from near and far. We will also have 18 stalls at our indoor Christmas magical? Because here at Christmas Grotto Walby Farm Park we believe in Meet Santa in his Christmas Grotto, market at Lunesdale Hall. In making your child’s Christmas located in the centre square of The addition, Christmas crafts for experience “beyond amazing”!

New Lanes Shopping Centre. Every child children, the Santa’s grotto and of will receive an early Christmas gift. course the largest tree in the town for 2017, see Walby’s very own means the Market Square will have professional PANTO! Whole family There will be a minimum donation entertainment by London-based of £3 per child. 100% of this will go a unique appeal for this year’s Lemon Jelly Creative. Ticket also to Cash for Kids Mission Christmas event. The weekend will also includes, Elves’ Postroom, Walby’s appeal. Customers will also be able feature the traditional Festive Photo Booth, make reindeer food, to donate an extra toy to the Parade on Saturday at 2pm, the meet Father Christmas & our appeal with donation boxes ‘switching on’ of the lights and a reindeer, Snowtime. Each Child can available by the grotto. Also 9th, wide variety of street 16th and 23rd December. entertainment and music. For more choose a gift and join in with the Elves’ Teddy Tastic Workshop! This information visit year you will need to choose a time Yewbarrow Terrace, Grange-over www.kirkbylonsdale.co.uk. to visit and buy tickets for that day/ -Sands time. We have set out the prices Christmas Lights Switch-On inclusive of entry this year to make From 6pm at Yewbarrow Terrace Rheged Centre, Penrith that clearer. For more information the 71st Christmas Lights Switch-On Santa in the Forest and to book visit takes place. Father Christmas will Visit Santa in his magical forest as www.walbyfarmpark.co.uk. be on hand to meet the children he makes a special stop off at and hand out sweets and the Rheged this year! After you have Christmas lights will be switched on tested your Christmas skills with Houghton Hall Garden Centre, by actress Molly McGlynn. Once the some fun activities in the Elves Carlisle lights are switched on Santa will workshops, come and tell Santa make his way up Main street Santa’s Grotto what you wish for this Christmas.

For the ultimate festive experience lighting it up as he goes. There will There’s no need to worry about be carol singing, hot food and queues as pre- booking is essential, this Christmas, visit our magical mulled wine in Victoria Hall to you can pre-book a time slot online Santa's Grotto. Travel on our magical Christmas ride to visit Santa round off the evening. at www.rheged.com, in person at in his Grotto and choose a present the Box Office or by calling 01768

4 - www.primarytimes.net/cumbria

primarytimescumbria

Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Ravenglass Santa Express

All aboard! Our favourite 'Santa Express' event returns to the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway.

Come and enjoy a magical journey onboard the 'Santa Express' to meet Father Christmas and explore his Dalegarth grotto. All children will receive an age-appropriate gift and parents get a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine, tea or coffee!

For more information and to book visit www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk.

Keswick Town Centre Keswick Victorian Fayre

Keswick Victorian Fayre will include free live entertainment on stage in the Market Place and Packhorse Court, including bands, choirs, children's entertainer and more.

There will also be a Nativity Scene and Children's Funfair. Over 30 charity stalls, selling a selection of homemade Christmas crafts, produce, festive food and drink.

Santa will be making a special visit to the Fayre! For more information visit www.keswick.org.

South Tynedale Railway, Alston Santa Specials

Every year Santa makes some special stops in magical places to see the boys and girls, and Santa Specials at Alston is one of those places. Ride the steam train back in time to be greeted by the chief elf who will lead you across to see Santa in his cosy Grotto where he waits patiently to give you your present. Santa Specials are a traditional Christmas experience, visited by thousands of visitors every year and are described as ‘authentic’ and ‘magical.’ We would love to see you with us this year!

For more information and to book visit www.south-tynedalerailway.org.uk.

The Market Hall, Scotch Street, Carlisle Festive Fun Day

11am to 3pm. Join us as we celebrate the festive season with children’s entertainers and our popular Market Hall Christmas Voucher Draw. The stall holders will be taking part too, as they compete in categories including “Best Seasonally Decorated Stall” and “Best Dressed Tenants”. Santa and friends will be there handing out chocolate treats.

Cont’d over...

www.facebook.com/ funtasticsoftplaycentre www.funtastic.me.uk/findus.html Find us at Funtastic, Top Floor (above Wilkinson’s), John Peel House, Ladies Walk Workington, Cumbria, CA14 3BA Tel: 01900601666

funtastic Christmas party Sun 17th December 4.30 to 6.30pm Tickets are on sale now £6.50 ticket includes food, games, disco, craft table and glitter tattoos and a parcel from Santa

Parent & Toddler Sessions Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm. Five hours of fun for only £3.50 per child Tea-Time Special Monday to Friday 3.30pm -5.30pm £4.95 (includes meal from selected menu)

Cont’d from previous page...

Beetham Nurseries, nr Milnthorpe Santa Visits Beetham Nurseries

9.30am to 4.30pm. We've just had some very exciting news! Santa has agreed to take time out of his busy schedule to join us once again this year. Santa will be here with his helper and will be granting every child's wish. Tickets are £5.99 for a ten-minute appointment and include a gift.

Booking is by appointment only, call 015395 63630 or pop by the Information Desk in the Gift Shop.

Also Sunday 17th December and Saturday 23rd December.

Laundrama, Bowness-onWindermere Father Christmas Tea Parties

Come and enjoy our very special Father Christmas Tea Party in our amazing winter wonderland. We’ll be showing the very christmassy classic The Tailor of Gloucester, serving a delicious lunch with crackers for everyone, and there’ll be presents for the children and chance to meet Father Christmas in his sleigh. Ticket include entrance in to the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction. This event is suitable for children age 3+ and starts at 1pm. Booking is essential by visiting www.hop-skipjump.com or calling 015394 88444.

primarytimescumbria

Ullswater 'Steamers', The Pier House, Glenridding Santa Cruise & Christmas Magic

A festive treat and fun for all, activities on-board with the Happy Elf, Stu-di-doo Christmas Magic show and of course meet Santa and hand over that all important letter! Two sailings from Glenridding at 10.30am or 1.30pm.

Ticket price is £15 per person which includes cruise, gift for the children, magic show and Christmas balloon, return journey voucher for the grown-ups and complimentary tea, coffee and mince pies. Under 3's free (token gift). Dogs not permitted. For more information visit www.ullswatersteamers.co.uk.

Dobbies, Orton Grange, Carlisle Breakfast or Tea with Father Christmas

Make it a Christmas to remember and see your child's eyes light up as they tuck into breakfast or tea with Father Christmas. This event includes a meal for each child followed by party games, activities and a small gift from Father Christmas. This event is aimed at children between 4 to 10 years but due to popular demand we now have adult menu options for adults who'd like to join their children for this festive tea. Tickets £11.95. For more information and to book visit www.dobbies.com.

www.primarytimes.net/cumbria - 5

Christmas Presents Have you ever received a Christmas

hamper? They generally look gorgeous - the goodies all laid out, covered in clear plastic and all tied up with a nice ribbon. The thing about Christmas hampers is that as soon as you take off the ribbon, remove the clear plastic and the large amount of stuffing the goodies have been resting on the contents always look a bit diminished. You received a gorgeous gift box and now you have a couple of packets of biscuits, a small box of chocolates, a plum pudding and perhaps a bottle of wine. Or what about those gorgeous cosmetic gifts, that came in a lovely box that looked so expensive, once the contents are removed and put on the bathroom shelf they never look as good again.

Forget location, location, location - when it comes to gifts it’s all about presentation, presentation, presentation.

Christmas is a time for eating, drinking and generally making merry but with endless gifts to buy and wrap parents can end up feeling less merry with every purchase. It’s a basic fact, not all of us can actually afford to purchase presents for nearest and dearest never mind the teacher, the tutor and the postman. However thankfully over the last few years ‘retro’, ‘pre-loved’ and ‘classic’ have become buzzwords for what we used to call second-hand and used. Recycling old clothes, books, bags and household goods is not just good for the environment but the wallet too.

At Christmas though many of us balk at offering ‘pre-loved’ items to family and friends but don’t discount the idea completely. Charity shops are an Aladdin’s Cave of treasures and most have a fine selection of photo frames for laughably low prices. Instead of buying Grandparents a present from your child, get the child to pick a favourite family photo, pop it in the newly cleaned frame and presto, a cheap but thoughtful gift. Similarly charity shops generally have plenty of photo albums on sale too, and filling one of these with photos and keepsakes also makes a lovely present.

Another buzzword that has emerged over the past few years is ‘upcycling’. This is defined as “reuse in such a way as to create a product of a higher quality or value than the original.”

Believe it or not furniture is particularly easy to upcycle but beginners shouldn’t think about anything as complicated as upholstery. Charity shops are full of old and ugly furniture that nobody wants and there are plenty of small pieces that can be upcycled - a box, those photo frames or a small set of shelves.

Forget location, location, location - when it comes to gifts it’s all about presentation, presentation, presentation.

The simplest way of upcycling furniture is to paint it. Once this meant patiently sanding and priming wood. But with Chalk Paint you, or more importantly your children, can just slap it on. Chalk paint can be painted on to pretty much any surface, varnished wood, unvarnished wood, metals, plastics or MDF. Once the base is done you can also then use stencils to make patterns or glue on shells, beads or DVD/CD mosaics (old DVDs and CDs cut into small shapes and rearranged.) Not only is this a fairly cheap present but a way of keeping your children entertained for hours.

Discount vouchers have become very popular in the last five years so sign up to the websites to see what deals are being offered. Many people get bargains on auction websites but if there’s a local website or social media for parents make sure to join as toys and games that have been discarded (or often never used at all) are regularly up for sale and you have the advantage of being close enough to see the item before you commit to buying it.

Also be sure to sign up to your local Freecycle (sometimes called Freegle) website. On Freecycle people give away items for free.

Mostly the items are good quality and in good condition and they’re going because they’ve outlived their purpose.

Anne Marie Scanlon

Instead of buying a box of fancy chocolates make some sweet treats yourself. A chocolate tray bake, cut into rough squares, placed in an old glass jar (which has been washed and cleaned) covered with cellophane and tied with a fancy bow can look very glamorous.

(Alternatively use Christmas Pudding nocook chocolate truffles, recipe available on the BBC website.) Twine is also a very ‘in’ decoration at the moment, especially when used with handmade cardboard labels. For ideas on homemade gifts and presentation there are numerous websites and YouTube videos to guide you through.

Christmas Money Saving Tips • Make sure you are enrolled in various stores’ loyalty programs.

Often you can build enough points/credits throughout the year to use them instead of money to purchase food or other items.

• Keep an eye out for promotions that involve doubling or trebling the value. (Read the fine print carefully before you order as some items, usually electronics and computing, are not included.)

• Join your local Freecycle/Freegle group, where you can pick up items for free.

6 - www.primarytimes.net/cumbria

Some presents, especially those for children, have to be new. If you have a store loyalty card keep an eye on the retailer’s website as many double or triple their ‘reward points’ coming up to Christmas, which means if you have £25 saved in points you can spend to the value of £50 or £75, which are significant savings.

primarytimescumbria

• Stock up on cellophane, ribbon, cardboard, brown paper and twine. Use brown paper, twine and homemade cardboard labels for wrapping gifts. It looks chic and costs a lot less than ‘Christmas’ gift paper.

• Join discount savings websites like Martin Lewis www.moneysavingexpert.com • Don’t buy unless you need it or really want it. There may be plenty of ‘bargains’ around - three for the price of two, or second item half price but they only count as real bargains if you really need them.

BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF 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 Find out more today: CARLISLE 07734 772847 carlisle@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/carlisle

COCKERMOUTH 07734 772847 cockermouth@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/cockermouth

®

Creative Courage For Life

®

Stagecoach Performing Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.

Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

ASK ABOUT OUR TWO WEEK TRIAL

TULLIE HOUSE MUSEUM

W hite s a m t s Chr i d n e k e We

Santa’ s Winter Wonderland Grotto Face painting Storytelling with Ian Douglas Gallery trail Christmas crafts Real life animals including a Snowy Owl, Alaskan Malamute and Alpacas Children (3+) £5. Visit Santa’s Grotto £3 Adults Free (with accompanied paying child and annual ticket)

Celebrate a White Christmas at Tullie House with a whole weekend of festive fun!

S A T U RDA Y & SU N DAY 1 9th 0t DECEMBE R h 11am - 4 pm Visit www.tulliehouse.co.uk or call 01228 618718 primarytimescumbria

www.primarytimes.net/cumbria - 7

Roundabout

Your family diary of what’s on and when DECEMBER Sat 2nd

Abbot Hall Art Gallery, Kendal Saturday Art Club

Bring art to life – create your own artwork inspired by the exhibitions.

Taking place within the galleries themselves on the first Saturday of every month, the ‘Family Art Fun’ workshops are a range of exciting activities for families to engage with, through hands on making and accessible discussions. The sessions will enliven the temporary exhibitions and enrich the understanding of exhibits. The workshops will cater to a variety of age ranges and abilities, designed to appeal to the whole family. Entrance for children is FREE with adult admission. Drop-in sessions between 10.30am and 1.30pm. Suitable for 3 years and up. Children must be accompanied. For more information visit www.abbothall.org.uk.

held in Morton Manor Community Centre, off Wigton Road. Following the carol service, mulled wine and mince pies will be available. All welcome.

The Athenaeum, Heversham Christmas Market

Get into the 2017 Christmas Spirit! 2 to 3pm, Christmas market including stalls, a raffle and refreshments, all in aid of the children’s Variety Charity. Stalls include Glynis Bland Photography, Cally Lawson Art, Bubble Van refreshments, cosmetics stall, Shazzlerazzlechocs, Tropic Skin Care, Slate Bar…and many more!

Many local businesses have taken part in donating wonderful prizes for our raffle. Entry is free so pop along to support this charity. For more information, or to book a stall, call or text on 07708329312 or 01539565758.

speciality and award-winning produce the village is transformed by the sights, sounds and smells of a thriving country market on market day. There are also usually cookery demonstrations and live music at most markets making Orton farmers' market is a great day out for the whole family.

Sat 9th to Sun 10th

sessions. There will be bouncy castles, soft play, didi car track and giant games. There are 3 sessions through the day at 10am to 11.45, 12pm to 1.45pm and 2pm to 3.45pm. Refreshments are available to purchase. Booking is advisable.

Babies under 6 months are free.

JANUARY

Victoria Street & High Street, Windermere

Sat 28th

Windermere is hosting a German Christmas Market on 9th & 10th December, there will be a wide range of festive stalls selling fantastic seasonal gifts from knitwear to soaps. There will be delicious food & drinks offerings available all day along with live music & on street entertainment.

The Big Sleep in Windermere

Windermere Christmas Market

Low Wood Bay Hotel, Windermere

Find out what it’s really like to suffer the cold, spend a night under the stars and help raise funds for vulnerable older people in Cumbria this winter. The Big Sleep is held every winter to raise money for Every Saturday Cumbria Community Foundation’s The Custom House, Abbey Winter Warmth Appeal – a pot of Road, Barrow-in-Furness cash distributed to help older people Mon 11th Barrow Market Hall, Barrow in 60 Minute Madness Staveley Village Hall, Staveley suffering from rising fuel costs and Furness poor health. In the first four years, Are you up to the challenge? If you Furness Owl Sanctuary the Big Sleep has attracted more think you are then every Saturday at Christmas Concert 7.30pm. A concert of festive music 10.30am to 4.00pm. Come along and 5pm we have 60 Minute Madness, than 500 people and raised nearly suitable for all ages and families meet Paul Rose and his beautiful £100,000 for the appeal. In a bad an hour of adrenaline packed welcome. The renowned Staveley owls from The Furness Owl winter, 300 elderly Cumbrians die continuous laser tag play. Can you Choral Society, conducted by Wendy every year due to cold weather as Sanctuary. Handle the owls, learn make it onto our leader board? if Randall, will be joined by young interesting owl facts and support a they are made to choose between you think you can handle the fastworthy local charity. heating and eating. Visit paced action come along and give it singers from Staveley Primary a go. Enjoy the complete 60-minute School. Festive refreshments will be www.cumbriafoundation.org/ Florence Arts Centre, Florence bigsleep, call 01900 825760 or email nonstop game for only £6. Be sure to served. Tickets £8 adults, £4 children, available from Staveley Mine, Egremont events@cumbriafoundation.org to book though as spaces are limited Pharmacy or on the door.

FAC Miners enter. for this weekly special event. For Come along to Florence Arts Centre more information visit Wed 20th Ongoing activity every Saturday for a free film - a www.1abbeyroad.co.uk.

The Foyle Room, opposite Tourist Information Office, classic, a forgotten gem or Dove Cottage, Grasmere Thu 7th something a bit different. All films Moot Hall, Keswick A Georgian Christmas Tullie House, Castle Street, will be either U or PG certificates.

Keswick Spy Mission Treasure Join us this Christmas week to You can view the current schedule at Carlisle Trail explore what Christmas was like in their website Late Night Shopping Club This self-guided Spy Mission themed Dove Cottage over 200 years ago. www.florenceartscentre.com, bring Got some late-night Christmas Treasure Trail is a fun way to the little people and see a great film shopping to do? Why not leave your Find out how the Wordsworths explore Keswick with family and celebrated the day, what they ate every week. little ones with the elves at Tullie friends. As you follow the trail route, for the Christmas dinner and how House! We will have lots of fun can you solve the sneaky clues set Morton Manor Community they might have decorated their Christmas activities, games and on existing buildings, permanent Centre, Carlisle house. We will then make some crafts to keep them entertained features and monuments to crack traditional Christmas decorations of Carols at Christmas while you do your shopping the code and complete the mission 6.30pm. This festive event will be uninterrupted. For more information our own to take home. For families just like a true secret agent? The of all ages, free with admission. For and to book visit Trail starts and finishes at the Tourist more information visit www.tulliehouse.co.uk.

Information Office in Moot Hall, in www.wordsworth.org.uk.

We take great care to ensure the middle of Market Place. The Sat 9th route takes you through the centre this information is correct at the Fri 29th Orton Village Hall and Market of town, around Fitz Park and to the time of press. However, we would Kendal Parish Hall, Kirkland, shores of Derwent Water. Cost £6.99 advise parents to phone and check Square, Nr. Penrith Kendal per pack. For more information visit details prior to making a long trip… Orton Farmers' Market Soft Play Sessions www.treasuretrails.co.uk.

With over 30 regular stallholders or promise!

Hardy Soft Play Hire will be back in offering a tremendous variety of the Christmas holidays with soft play

8 - www.primarytimes.net/cumbria

primarytimescumbria

IN OUR

CINEMA

S TA R WA R S : THE LAST JEDI

Book online: R H E G E D . C O M INCLUDING OUR EPIC

F A M I LY F E S T I V A L

Sat 25 & Sun 26 Nov

SUPPER WITH

Santa

Mon 18–Fri 22 Dec

FOREST

F R O M S AT 1 8 N O V

Book online or call 01768 868000 VISIT RHEGED.COM FOR OUR FULL P R O G R A M M E I N C L U D I N G F A M I LY T H E AT R E , PA N T O A N D W O R K S H O P S

For all our events and to book online visit

RHEGED.COM | 01768 868000 Rheged Centre | M6 J40 | Penrith | CA11 0DQ

primarytimescumbria

www.primarytimes.net/cumbria - 9

SHARING SAFELY THIS CHRISTMAS

C

hristmas is just around the corner and whether you’re welcoming extended family or opting for a smaller celebration, there will no doubt be precious moments that you hope to capture and keep forever. Social media has provided us with the opportunity to share those moments and Instagram and Facebook are set to be awash with images of present opening, cracker pulling and possibly a picture of dad snoring in front of the telly.

As the age that children are using social media continues to get younger, Christmas 2017 is expected to be the most shared one yet.

But recent research found that only four in ten parents (42%)* have given their children advice or agreed rules on what content to post online, as sharing Christmas Day with friends is still a new phenomenon.

Internet Matters is urging parents to use the Christmas holidays to have a conversation with their children about what they’re posting online and to ensure they are sharing safely.

Discussing sharing at Christmas also gives parents the opportunity to delve deeper into their children’s digital lives and ensure they are thinking twice about their online actions.

It allows you to ask the bigger questions – why would they share something? How would a certain picture make someone feel? Who are they sharing with? What apps are they using? And reiterate the importance of staying safe online.

Ensuring your child understands boundaries is especially key if you are considering giving them a new device this Christmas. Here are 12 tips to ensure your child is sharing safely.

10 - www.primarytimes.net/cumbria

12 Shares of Christmas – Tips on sharing safely

1

Are they sharing inappropriate selfies?

Discuss the reasons why they feel the need to share such images and the potential long-term impact.

2

Do you feel they’re spending too much time on social?

Talk together so they understand your concerns.

3

Are they sharing their location through apps?

Make sure geolocation is disabled to keep their whereabouts private.

4

Have they posted personal information?

Talk to them about who they’ve shared the information with and assess the risk it poses to your child.

5

Are they chatting to strangers online?

Make sure your child understands that people may hide behind fake profiles for dishonest reasons and the person they’ve been chatting to could easily be someone with bad intentions.

primarytimescumbria

6

10

7

11

8

12

Are they gaming with strangers online?

Playing games online can be fun and positive but make sure your child understands that people may hide behind fake profiles for dishonest reasons.

Do they have hundreds of followers?

Explain that some people may not be who they say they are and tell your child how privacy settings can put them in control of who they talk to.

Have they shared embarrassing images?

Remind your child that these images are their personal digital footprint for years to come and advise them to use settings that only let them share with friends they know.

9

Are they at risk of being cyberbullied?

Stay calm, listen without judging and reassure your child that you can help.

Discuss any action you may take together.

Do they understand that what they share can hurt others?

Talk together about peer pressure and how screens and anonymity can lead to behaviour that is hurtful.

Have they been affected by content shared online?

Encourage them to think about why friends may share certain posts. Show them how to gently challenge their friends if they find their content offensive.

Are they ready to share on social?

Most social media apps have a minimum age rating of 13.

For more information on how to share safely this Christmas visit www.internetmatters.org Article by Carolyn Bunting, CEO of Internet Matters

**Research of 1,500 parents of children aged 6 to 16, carried out by Opinion Leader in September 2016.

Clash of the Dinosaur Hunters

Desire to be the best turned friends into biier rivals. A tale of decades of spying, lying and blowing up stuff, is told in the latest book (aimed at children aged - ) by lover of all things dinosaur ... Nicky Dee.

Othniel Charles Marsh’s dinosaur discoveries included the famous long-necked, whip-tailed Jurassic giant, Diplodocus.

This dinosaur has become one of the most displayed in the world due to the generosity of Scoosh-American industrialist Andrew Carnegie, who had replicas sent to heads of state around the world. The replica given to King Edward VII was installed in the Natural History Museum in London in .

Illustraaons by Ian Durneen “Dippy” was on display in the Natural History Museum unnl recently, and will be touring the UK in .

The Bone Wars by Nicky Dee, advised by award-winning palaeontologist Dean R Lomax, with illustraaons by Ian Durneen, is published by the Dragonfly Group, and is available from Amazon, the Natural History Museum in London and all good book shops. Find out about the rest of the What’s So Special About Dinosaurs series of colleccble books at www.SpecialDinosaurs.com.

primarytimescumbria

www.primarytimes.net/cumbria - 11

S Indicates a book is part of a series

Bookstore Christmas

There’s a gorgeous array of books around this time of year. Here’s a selection of some o f the best if you want gift ideas - to give or request.

STAR READ

The Secret Horses of Briar Hill

Debbie

Megan Shepherd (Walker Hb, £8.99)

It’s 1941, Britain is at war and Emmaline has been evacuated to Briar Hill Hospital in Shropshire.

There she alone sees winged horses living in the mirrors. Frustrated with being kept indoors, Emmaline sneaks outside and finds a beautiful, white horse has found its way into the sundial garden. Closer examinations shows she has a broken wing.The discovery of a letter from the Horse Lord tells her the horse is Foxfire and she has been brought there for safety while her wing heals, but she is being pursued by a sinister black winged horse and needs protecting. Emmaline vows to keep her safe, but there are certain things she needs to do and being ill herself makes it very difficult. Help comes from an unexpected source, but she has many obstacles and heartaches to overcome.

This is a very gentle, touching story full of wonderfully expressive, atmospheric illustrations adding another dimension.

Beautifully presented medium length novel for competent readers.

The Dollmaker of Krakow R.M. Romero (Walker Hb, £12.99)

A doll called Karolina somehow escapes the awful war in her native Land of Dolls and lands in a Dollmaker’s shop in Krakow where she comes to life. She discovers the dollmaker has magical abilities and hopes he might be able to use them to help end the war back home, but it is 1939 and the occupying Nazis divert her fears to a nearer danger. Karolina and the Dollmaker feel powerless as their Jewish friends are rounded up and treated with unbelievable brutality. Can they use magic to help them without putting themselves at risk? This is an incredibly powerful story with a very unusual and clever mix of fairytale magic and grim reality, helping make the darkness of the story palatable without lessening its impact. It is an unputdownable read that will remain with you long after you have reached the end. Full length novel for older, capable juniors.

The Accidental Father Christmas

S

Tom McLaughlin (Oxford, £6.99)

Ben didn’t mean to knock Father Christmas out, giving him concussion and memory loss, he just wanted to prove his existence.You couldn’t blame him for doubting it - poor Ben made the same Christmas wish for years with no success. All this resulted in a self taught crash course (literally) in sleigh driving and a mad dash to Buckingham Palace followed by an encounter with gangster style elves (not to be confused with pixies); a hasty course in sleuth like present delivery and a race against time to save Christmas.

Throw in a mysterious black helicopter manned by equally strange men who are numbered rather than named and can’t tell a sleigh from a UFO and you have a fast paced, madcap adventure rich in laugh aloud moments and quirky characters.This latest in the ‘Accidental’ series is as entertaining and absorbing as previous titles. Fair size print and some pictures introduces readers to medium length novels.

The Turkey That Voted For Christmas Madeline Cook/ Samara Hardy (Oxford, £6.99)

Christmas is never celebrated at the farm where Timmy Turkey lives because all the other turkeys always vote against it. He can’t see why (can you?) and he’d like to see that changed. He starts a campaign to bring Christmas to the farm enlisting the help of the other animals much to the dismay and fear of the turkeys. What none of them see is the suspicious behaviour of the farmer but thanks to a helpful robin, we as readers know more than they do.This is a very funny picture book with expressive illustrations that add a sub plot to the written story. Large print for newly developing or reluctant readers, but fun for all and great to share.

12 - www.primarytimes.net/cumbria

Text © D J Williams 2017

primarytimescumbria

Write a better story for your family in 2018!

Discover a better work-life balance that suits your family.

Earn money by selling Usborne’s award winning children’s books.

Make a real difference to literacy & learning by offering free & discounted books to homes, schools, toddler groups, libraries & more.

It’s fun, flexible, confidence building and potentially life changing.

Get in touch to join our team: T: 08456 432735 E: info@awpublicationsltd.co.uk

Pantomime. Oh No It Isn't!

By Anne Marie Scanlon

O

h yes, it is. Christmas might seem a long way off but it’s just around the corner.

Apart from presents, decorations, stuffing, turkey, the baby Jesus and plum pudding there’s another tradition which is as much a part of the festive season as the fairy lights – the pantomime and, if you don’t want to miss it, it’s time to book tickets.

In the Middle Ages the Mummers Play was traditionally performed at festivals and gatherings. These performances contained a number of set pieces - staged fights, coarse humour and bizarre creatures, which are all found in modern pantomime.

Music was also an important part of the Mummers repertoire and no Panto is complete without songs – especially the sing-a-long kind.

it, has some hard and fast ‘rules’ regarding plot and character.

Anyone who grew up in Britain or Ireland might be surprised to realise that Panto is unique to the British Isles and relatively unknown outside of them. So where did we get this singular form of entertainment from? Pantomime is a bit like our modern Christmas in that it has ‘borrowed’ many of its facets from a variety of long-established traditions and blended them into a form that seems as old as time, but is, in fact, relatively new.

In the 17th century adaptations of the Italian popular entertainment Commedia Dell’Arte, a sort of travelling street theatre, became familiar to British audiences. Early performances did not have dialogue (mainly because of the language differences) but only music, gestures and dancing. The Commedia Dell’Arte was a very visual medium and relied heavily on well-known Classical stories but these were soon replaced by native Fairy Tales and folk stories. The visual nature of the show was still very important and as the Commedia Dell’Arte evolved into “Italian Night Scenes” and slapstick and physical comedy became more important.

Dick Whittington

Panto evolved from many different areas of entertainment and theatre.

The most obvious is the stage play.

Shakespeare is probably the best known playwright in the world.

When his plays first appeared they were one of the few forms of mass entertainment around for ordinary people – there was no TV, the vast majority of people were illiterate and even if they could read the modern novel as we know it didn’t exist! Far from sitting quietly and reverently in their seats, Shakespeare’s audience played an active role in the drama. In the days before telephone voting the audience showed their displeasure by booing loudly or throwing rotten fruit. Audience participation is still a very important part of modern Panto. Oh no it isn’t! Oh yes it is!

The final part of the Panto recipe comes from the Victorian Music Hall where the entertainment varied between topical humour, sentimental songs, dancing girls and novelty acts – all of which can be found in the modern Panto.

The Pantomime Dame and her ridiculously over-the-top outfits began life in the music halls in the late 1800s.

The name ‘Pantomime’ comes from ancient Greece and referred to the group of actors who “imitate all”.

Over time the name evolved to mean the performance itself. The performance, as we now know

The Plot.

Pantomime is generally based on a fairy tale or folk tale such as Cinderella Babes In The Woods Jack & the Beanstalk Aladdin Puss in Boots Snow White Mother Goose

The Characters.

The cast almost always includes the following characters: The Dame usually played by a man.

Theatre has a tradition of women’s roles being played by men goes which goes back to Shakespeare’s day when women were not allowed to perform on stage. The Dame is never supposed to resemble a real woman.

The Principal Boy (male lead) played by a girl.

The tradition of women dressing up as men on stage started in the 18th century when male roles played by women were called ‘breeches parts’.

Like the Dame, the principal boy role evolved during the 19th century but by the 1880’s the hero was always played by a woman.

The Villain usually played by a man.

While the stock characters of Panto owe a lot to the Commedia Dell’Arte they are also rooted in Medieval Morality Plays where ‘good’ and ‘evil’ were personified as individuals.

Panto tradition has the villain as

primarytimescumbria

the first to enter the stage from the Left – the Dark Side – a practice that goes back to Medieval times. The audience are expected to hiss and boo every time the ‘baddie’ appears on stage.

The Sidekick usually played by a man.

In the Commedia Dell’Arte the Clown became the main focus on stage. The role of the ‘Clown’ has now evolved into The Dame and the sidekick. Both are the butt of many, often physical, jokes.

The Heroine.

The heroine is always played by a girl.

The Pantomime Horse/Cow. No Panto is complete without an obviously fake cow/horse on stage.

The Chorus.

The chorus sing, dance and, like the original Greek chorus, often narrate for the audience.

Despite having a limited amount of characters and only a handful of stories to portray the Panto has remained ever popular with the public because it is both familiar and versatile. Within the framework of the story, the jokes, dialogue and music change every year to reflect topical events and fashions. Another reason for its lasting popularity is the audience participation which is essential to the show. As far as ‘Family Entertainment’ goes you can’t do better than Panto - for once, kids and parents are all on the same level, they’re all ‘in’ on the joke and equally encouraged to sing along and shout out. All together now – “Oh no they aren’t!”

“Oh yes, they are!”

www.primarytimes.net/cumbria - 13

Christmas at Theatre by the Lake

The Secret Garden

By Frances Hodgson Burnett | Adapted by Jessica Swale | Age 6+ 24 November to 13 January

Snow Play Presented by Lyngo Theatre | Age 3+ 11 – 23 December

theatrebythelake.com

Box Office: 017687 74411 THE BREWERY CHRISTMAS SHOW

CHRISTMAS MAGIC ENCHANTING FESTIVE FUN IN COCKERMOUTH

RIVER LANTERN PARADE Wrap up warm & bring your lanterns to this years themed parade, followed by an outdoor shadow theatre show. Meet on Market Street.

Saturday 1st December 5.30pm

THE NUTCRACKER Toy soldiers, an army of mice & the charming Sugar Plum Fairy! An unmissable festive adventure in this Christmas classic from the ROH. Sunday 10th December 2pm STAY POSTED ONLINE FOR UPCOMING DETAILS OF OUR FEBRUARY HALF TERM EVENTS

KIRKGATEARTS.ORG.UK

01900 826448

THE KIRKGATE CENTRE, KIRKGATE, COCKERMOUTH, CA13 9PJ

14 - www.primarytimes.net/cumbria

primarytimescumbria

Tue 19 - Sun 31 Dec | breweryarts.co.uk | 01539 725133

Stage & Screen

Beggar's Theatre, Millom BOX OFFICE 01229 775677 Santa's Christmas Wish Sat 9th Dec

Christmas is a season of joy, love and sharing, a time when Santa delivers presents all over the world… but what would Santa himself like for Christmas? Dasher the Reindeer has an idea…

Pompom the Penguin thinks he knows…Or maybe Snowy the Snowman has the answer? Mrs Claus needs all their help – and yours – to find out! Join a fun, festive, musical adventure to give Santa the very best Christmas, then meet him at his home in the North Pole! Santa’s Christmas Wish is a festive, song-filled, interactive family show particularly suitable for 2 to 7 year olds.

Tickets £9.50.

Brewery Arts Centre, Kendal BOX OFFICE 01539 725133 The Snow Dragon Mon 4th to Tue 5th Dec

Tall Stories, creators of the popular stage shows The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom are delighted to present the 2017 UK tour of their acclaimed production The Snow Dragon. The night of the Snow Dragon approaches… Billy has everything a young goat could need – and more besides. On New Year’s Eve, Billy is looking forward to the annual visit of the legendary Snow Dragon, who will bring him even more goodies... But when Billy bumps into some hungry wolves in the forest, New Year’s Day seems a long way off. How will Billy escape? And has he been naughty or nice? Toe-tapping songs and lots of laughs for everyone aged 3 and up. Tickets £9, Under 16s £7.

Carnegie Theatre, Workington BOX OFFICE 01900 602122 Santa's Christmas Wish Sun 10th Dec

Christmas is a season of joy, love and sharing, a time when Santa delivers presents all over the world… but what would Santa himself like for Christmas? Dasher the Reindeer has an idea…

Pompom the Penguin thinks he knows…Or maybe Snowy the Snowman has the answer? Mrs Claus needs all their help – and yours – to find out! Join a fun, festive, musical adventure to give Santa the very best Christmas, then meet him at his home in the North Pole! Santa’s Christmas Wish is a festive, song-filled, interactive family show particularly suitable for 2 to 7 year olds.

Tickets £9.50.

Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs Tue 26th to Sat 30th Dec Don't miss out on Workington's traditional, fun-packed, family pantomime - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs! Presented by Workington and District Amateur Musical Society. Tickets from £12.

Coro Hall, Ulverston BOX OFFICE 01229 587140 Jack & The Beanstalk Wed 24th to Sat 27th Jan 2018

Ulverston Pantomime Society presents, Jack & The Beanstalk.

Come along to Jack & The Beanstalk for a great traditional Panto, with a rip roaring 21st century script, telling the story of how Jack Trott takes his family from rags to riches with many escapades, culminating in the defeat of the giant! See all the usual comedy characters along the way, including Daisy the cow.

Come along and have a wonderful night’s entertainment with the story of Jack and his family and friends. Tickets £12 Adults, £10 Child, £40 Family Ticket.

Egremont Market Hall BOX OFFICE 07588 051942 Aladdin Tue 5th to Sun 10th Dec The Whitehaven Theatre Group presents Aladdin at the Market Hall Egremont. Tickets £9, conc. £8.

Forum Theatre, Barrow BOX OFFICE 01229 820000 Cinderella Wed 13th to Sat 30th Dec

The most magical pantomime of all, you'll have a ball. Cinderella has always dreamed of meeting a handsome prince. After the announcement that Prince

Charming will be holding a royal ball, she may get her wish after all!

A full professional cast, accompanied by a junior ensemble of local dancers. We are delighted to be working with Shone Productions, producers of last year's pantomime 'Peter Pan', which proved to be our biggest panto ever, breaking all box office records. Tickets from £10.50.

Old Laundry Theatre, Bowness on Windermere BOX OFFICE 015394 40872 The Christmas Gift Tue 19th to Thu 21st Dec

Theatre Voices Ambleside present The Christmas Gift – a heartwarming, family friendly show that truly captures the kind of Christmas we all long to have. Four famous Christmas stories are magically bound together in this feature packed show with music, storytelling, readings and a visit from Santa Claus himself with gifts and surprises for all the children in the audience. Who will find the Magic Key? Can you activate the reindeer dust? Where are the Christmas elves? Who can light the Christmas Tree? Even old Scrooge makes an appearance.

This really is The Night Before Christmas! Tickets £10 Adults, £8 Concession, £30 Family (2 adults & 2 children).

The Bryce Burneside, Kendal BOX OFFICE 07792 777213 Beauty and the Beast Fri 5th to Sat 13th Jan 2018

Burneside Amateur Theatrical Society presents Beauty and the Beast, a pantomime by Ben Crocker. Tickets from £8. You can call the box office or email them at boxoffice@batsburneside.co.uk.

The Sands Centre, Carlisle BOX OFFICE 01228 633766 Sleeping Beauty Mon 11th to Sun 31st Dec

The region's biggest Christmas show returns this December with one of the most famous fairy tales of all, Sleeping Beauty! For the first time ever this year The Sands'

panto will feature amazing 3D projection, as well as its usual fantastic live band, stunning set and lavish costumes. Starring Carlisle's own Lee Brennan - (Lead vocalist from boyband 911) as the Prince, and Eastender's favourite Cheryl Fergison (Heather Trott) as the Wicked Fairy. They'll be joined by the region's favourite breakfast DJ - Robbie Dee as the Dame and the hilarious Dean Winters as the Jester. Both back by popular demand! Come and join in the festive fun this Christmas at The Sands Centre Sleeping Beauty will be packed with great songs, amazing dance routines and plenty of laughter, this is a tremendous treat for all the family! You won't want to miss it.. OH NO YOU WON'T! Tickets from £14.50.

Theatre by the Lake, Keswick BOX OFFICE 017687 74411 Snow Play Mon 11th to Sat 23rd Dec

What would you do if one year Winter decided to stay and moved into your house? Well that’s what happens in our snowy spectacular show where you are guaranteed a white Christmas, no matter what the weather or the time of year!

Snow Play is a showdown between Winter and Spring over who gets to stay and who must go away.

Help Mr Green against Mr White in this highly interactive smash-hit London production. You get to make a giant snowman, cover a whole house in snow and have a super snowball fight! Suitable for ages 3+. Please note, seating for this production is unallocated.

There will be a mixture of fixed seats, benching and cushions on the floor. If you have specific access needs please inform the Box Office. Tickets £8, Family ticket (4 people) £30.

Upfront Puppet Theatre, Penrith BOX OFFICE 017684 84538 Cinderella Sun 17th Dec to Wed 3rd Jan 2018 New production underway for Christmas. Suitable for ages 4 to 94. Adults £10, Children £8.50, Family (2 adults/2 children) £34.

School group bookings available 4th to 15th December. Please telephone for details and costs.

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

www.primarytimes.net/cumbria - 15

10% of T&C’s -

f futu

a litt

Vouch er e

ntitles

re bou

le gift

beare

r to 10 % off

1 stan

nce!

from u

dard b

ounce .

s to yo

Quote

“Prim

u

ary10 ” whe

n boo

king.

christmas has at energi tram come early poline park!

FANCY BOU NCING ARO UND ONE O THIS CHRIS F OUR PARK TMAS... OR S KNOW SOM WOULD? B OOK A VISIT EONE WHO TO ENERGI PARKS AND TRAMPOLIN QUOTE “PR E IMARY10” A ONLINE FO T THE DESK R 10% OFF A OR NY STANDA RD BOUNC E!

“primary10”

carlisle Unit 2 Millrace Rd, Carlisle CA2 5RS 01228 210215 Terms and conditions apply

16 - www.primarytimes.net/cumbria

ENERGIPARKS.CO.UK

primarytimescumbria