Blackbird Pie 2023 Autumn

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October Half-term Holiday and Autumn 2023 30,000 copies across Cornwall and on-line

BlackbirdPie Cornwall’s what’s-on for families Calendar autumn 2023 What’s on Seal rescues Hallowe’en events Awesome Gaia Spooky Newquay Peter Pan flies into libraries!

Theatre shows Get Creative with HfC Flu vaccination news Amazing World books review

Vouchers & offers for: Base Camp at Gwel an Mor, page 2 National Maritime Museum Cornwall, page 3 Cornish Heritage Trust, page 4 Pendennis Castle, page 5 Paradise Park, page 5 Jungle Jacks, page 13

Children’s Parties @ Base Camp

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All Party Packages include:

Party food: pizza, nuggets, fish fingers, veggies nuggets, fries, unlimited squash Plastic-free party bags and fillers Use of soft play before or after the activity/encounter

CLIP ‘N CLIMB If your child likes a challenge, they’ll love our Clip ‘n Climb birthday parties Maximum of 8 children @ a set price of £200. Min 4 years ARCHERY Take aim and fire! Our indoor cabin with targets is perfect for older children who want their friends to join in the fun Maximum of 8 children @ a set price of £200. Min 8 years LASER TAG PARTY Split into two teams and fire at your friends in our outdoor laser tag arena!

Maximum of 10 children @ a set price of £250. Min 5 years SOFT PLAY Go wild in the soft area and explore the slides, ball pits and more £16.50 per child. No minimum age MAKE A BEAR Make your very own special bear that you can take home and includes soft play £35 per child. Minimum of 5 people, no age limit. Includes teddy, teddy bear certificate, t-shirt to decorate SAND ART Our sand art parties are ideal for little ones with a crafty side and includes soft play £18.50 per child. Min 3 years MEET THE ANIMALS Hand-feed the goats, meet the reindeer, stroke the snakes and lizards and fly our owls.

Maximum of 15 children @ a set price of £300, additional children £18.50 each Book online via the website: https://cove.co.uk/gwelanmor/ things-to-do/base-camp/ or email us: gwel.basecamp@cove.co.uk Feadon Lane, Portreath, TR16 4PE

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Page(s): 4 to 9, 12 & 13 7 8

9 10 & 11 12 14 to 17 16 18 19

Content: What’s on this autumn and lots of Hallowe’en events and spooky fun The Seal Sanctuary gears up for new pup rescues Gaia at Truro Cathedral – see earth as never before with this enormous, illuminated, floating artwork installation Cornwall libraries – more than just books…and Hall for Cornwall will be running Peter Pan workshops in libraries too! More on page 14 Spooky Newquay – Zombie Crawl!!

Autumn calendar 2023 What is Play Therapy?

Theatre shows, including the world premiere of Bal Maiden the Musical, a proper Cornish collaboration Get Creative with Hall for Cornwall Kernow Health: nasal flu vaccinations Breastfeeding welcome – everywhere!

‘Amazing World’ themed book review

Dear Readers, We are really proud of this issue, there are so many good things to tell you about. We search for quirky, original, Cornish, imaginative, adrenalin-pumping, and of course fun (there is plenty of that!), ideas. You could be a zombie in Spooky Newquay, listen to the Swordstorian’s tales, find amazing free activities in Cornwall’s libraries, gaze in awe at extraordinary Gaia at Truro Cathedral, and celebrate spooky Allantide at Castle an Dinas. So, this autumn why not look out for zany things, you might find something new you love!

Photo credit - Hugh Hastings

There are plenty of inspiring and fun child-friendly shows this autumn and pantomimes coming soon, (book ahead and get the best seats).

Peter Pan and his crew will be flying into Cornwall’s libraries this autumn and then onto a glorious panto season at the cleverly refurbished Hall for Cornwall.

Happy Hallowe’en and half term, Vanessa, Simon and the Blackbird

We believe that all details are correct at the time of going to print but cannot accept any responsibility for mistakes or omissions. We try to ensure all events featured will be enjoyed by younger children but in some instances we cannot test this and have to rely on the opinions of the organisers.

Please mention us to advertisers

Contact us at: “Blackbird Pie”, Flying Pig Publishing, 3 Basset Place, Falmouth, Cornwall. TR11 2SS  post@blackbirdpie.co.uk  01326 314242 www.blackbirdpie.co.uk

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What’s on this autumn

Theatre shows are on pages 14 to 17. Please mention BlackbirdPie when you are out and about.

Basecamp at Gwel an Mor, near Portreath, have six great sounding parties - Clip ‘n Climb, Archery, Laser Tag, Soft Play, Make-a-Bear, Sand Art, and Meet the Animals (hand-feed goats, meet reindeer, stroke snakes & lizards, and fly owls!)

Details on page 2.

Cornwall Heritage Trust is transforming Castle an Dinas near St Columb Major for a spooky spectacular Allantide! Considered by many to be Cornwall’s answer to Halloween, Allantide is a fabulous celebration with traditions including divination, mischief, ghosts, bonfires, magic and superstition. On 26 Oct from 12noon, the historic hillfort will be filled with activities including apple crafting, hubble bubble potion-making, and spellbinding storytelling.

You don’t need to be members, just come along and enjoy this free event - it’s sure to get your spine tingling!

However, families can join from just £20 a year and family membership benefits include free entry to English Heritage Cornish sites and Geevor Tin Mine, and more. (Photo credit - Mike Davey) Quote ‘BlackBirdPie’ and receive a free Cornish sweet treat with your membership pack! www.cornwallheritagetrust.org Mid-Cornwall Discovery Club Archaeology workshops for 8 to 14 years, £5, 24 Oct: St Agnes; 18 Nov: Plagues and Potions, Gwinear; extremely limited space available so book asap: www.cornwallheritagetrust.org/visit/wasson Trebah Garden, Mawnan Smith. www.trebahgarden.co.uk The days may be getting a little shorter, but autumn is always exciting at Trebah. The fresh green leaves of summer give way to beautiful hues of red, orange and yellow as autumn sweeps through, carpeting the garden. Explore the glorious garden with the brand-new Creatures Of The Night Trail; equal parts fun and educational, explore & discover facts about nocturnal animals, £2 and includes a prize. Then why not head to Trebah Kitchen for something delicious and warming?

Creepy Crab Invasion at National Lobster Hatchery 21 to 29 Oct: back by popular demand! Your help is needed, creepy crabs have taken over the Hatchery! There will be spooky games and activities, crafts, treasure hunts and colouring-in, all included with entry and existing annual passes. Open daily 10am to 4pm.

Pendennis Castle, Falmouth, 21 to 29 Oct: Grab your broomsticks and get ready for a bewitchingly brilliant day out! Gather round for tales from spooky storytellers and solve creepy clues in the Halloween Quest. There’s so much to enjoy at Pendennis too - be transported back to the Second World War in the recreated Battery Observation Post bunker; trace the development of the castle’s weaponry and defences; and discover the castle-themed soft play next to the café. Book online and save 10% english-heritage.org.uk/Pendennis

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Via Ferrata Treat your children to Cornwall’s most exciting childcare! Book a half or full day, simply drop them off for an epic time. viaferratacornwall.co.uk/holiday-club/. For family days out take on the Zip Wire Safari or Via Ferrata.

The Box, Plymouth’s amazing museum & art gallery (free admission) has fun crafty family activities during half-term focused on dazzling beetles and beautiful flowers inspired by the new ‘Dutch Flowers’ art exhibition. 28 Oct: Spooky Science Halloween family fun, special after-hours event. The popular ‘I Wonder’ sensory fun for 1 to 4 years (Tuesdays term-time) and ‘Tell Me a Story’ (Fridays at 10.30am) sessions continue, see www.theboxplymouth.com for details and bookings.

HAVE A REALLY WILD TIME

Look who’s over there?

Bodmin Keep, Get Halloween-ready at Bodmin Keep this half-term - 26 & 27 Oct 12noon to 2pm: amazing special effects makeup & prosthetic wounds by Dainty & Decay, £6 pp. 25 Oct at 2pm: Weapons Handling Through the Ages, £3 pp. 23-27 Oct: win a prize by completing the Museum Trails, £2pp.

Visit www.bodminkeep.org.uk for event info.

Tel: 07761 810900

www.marks-ark.co.uk

Truro City Council’s Bonfire Night display Friday 3 Nov at Tremorvah Playing Field. Gates open at 5pm, bonfire lit at 6.30pm, fireworks display at 7pm. £3 per adult, £1 under 16s, cash only; in aid of Cornwall Air Ambulance and CHBN Radio. ‘Best Guy Fawkes’ competition, and the best Guy will top the bonfire! Refreshments available to purchase. Limited parking. visittruro.org.uk Facebook/ Instagram – visittruro Halloweden at the Eden Project.18 to 29 Oct: Halloweden returns for another year with an all-new tree-mendous offer. This spooky season take on a special quest to protect the world’s forests, guided by the legendary Tree Giants. On your magical adventure to become a forest guardian, you’ll discover the Tree Giants’ ancient wisdom, hear extraordinary tales and witness enchanting performances. Plus – take a spin on the wickedly fun ice rink and maybe a mystical guide will weave wonderful tales and help you craft a wand at a bewitching Wand Making Workshop in the spooktacular Tipis, (additional charge and pre-booking required for both activities). www.edenproject.com Royal Cornwall Museum, Truro. Adrift: Lego Lost at Sea, Due to popular demand, this wonderful exhibition has been extended until 25 Nov. In 1997, a rogue wave knocked 62 containers from a cargo ship off the coast of Cornwall, inside were five million pieces of Lego.

This is the story of what happened to them and what was learned about the ocean, its currents and pollution.

National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Falmouth. 21 to 29 Oct: Silhouettes & Shadows. The nights are drawing in and the shadows are taking over. This October half term take to the spooky high seas for eerie songs and ghostly shadow puppet stories in the Museum’s Main Hall, performed by Star Box Shadows and Wilderness Music.

Then create shadow puppets in Make & Take and find hidden pirate ghosts on the Museum trail. Activities are FREE with the annual admission fee (pay once and get in free for a year).

You can explore 15 galleries over four floors, jump aboard boats, climb the 100-foot Lookout Tower, watch boatbuilding, go underwater in the Tidal Zone, discover stories of ocean adventures and survival, and sail miniature boats on the waterfront boat pool.

What's on - continues on page 6 >>>>

Brilliant for kids’ parties, play groups, schools, fun days!

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What's on - continued from page 5 Penlee House Gallery & Museum, Penzance, 01736 363625.

Free entry for children and Penzance residents see penleehouse. org.uk/penzance-pass. 2, 16, 30 Oct: free, baby play sessions, 10 to 11.30 am, explore sensory play in the gallery & experience amazing artworks. Every Saturday 2.30 to 3.30pm: drop-in family art activities, inspired by the exhibitions; FREE! 30 Sep: Lamorna Leaf Garlands, 7 Oct: Souvenirs from Penzance, 14 Oct: make rubbings from pilchard barrel stencils, 21 Oct: Colourful Troika geometric shapes, 28 Oct: create ceramic mosaic tiles inspired by Penlee’s piece of ancient Roman flooring from Pompeii; Nov dates: see website.

Lowender Celtic Festival, Redruth, 26 to 29 Oct: family-friendly festival with events and venues across town & for all age groups.

Kids go free! Celebrate Cornish culture with music, dance, Cornish language, and singing sessions. www.lowender.co.uk Dairyland 21 to 29 Oct Scaryland spooktacular week - creepy craft workshop + PYO pumpkin from the pumpkin patch then have it carved to your design. The full park and Bull Pen soft play will be open. Paying children over 80cm get a free pumpkin and craft ticket included in the entry price. Tractor Ride through Witches Wood.

Helston Railway, Trevarno Farm, Prospidnick. Buy your tickets from the charming old ticket office in a train carriage, then catch a vintage train along the restored railway line. www.helstonrailway.co.uk Trains running on Thursdays and Sundays in Oct. Sunday 8 Oct: Kids for a Quid. 25 & 26 Oct Halloween with evening train & 29 Oct Halloween daytime train. The railway is closed in Nov, then reopening for Santa Specials.

Newquay Zoo will be hosting half-term spooky storytelling, creepy craft activities and ghoulish treats at Café Lemur.

Bring your little ones to visit in their most frighteningly fabulous fancy dress. Halloween activities are paid for events and spaces are limited. With hundreds of animals and 13 acres of lush sub-tropical gardens to explore, you’re in for a spooktacular time. Discover all sorts of rare and unusual animals. Choose your favourite species, maybe red pandas, penguins, lemurs, lynx, snakes or spiders?! For best prices book online www.newquayzoo.org.uk

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Chyan Cultural Centre, Halvasso, Penryn. Chyan Apple Fair 14 Oct, 12noon to 6pm: Apple juicing, children’s area, bands, dance, Mr B’s clown show, circus, cakes, cafe, archery & crafts, apple exhibition, healers & spa with spring water swimming pool. Cash only event/ no digital currency... adults £6, child £3, buskers and bikes free. info@chyan.org. From 15 Oct - Festive Sundays at Chyan, £6, or £12 with lunch. Half price for benefits/children. 11am to 12.30pm yoga / circus for all; 1 to 2.30pm plant-based, Sunday Roast lunch. All welcome - text 07775857677 for lifts from Penryn station. Book at www.ticketsource.co.uk/swamp-circus office@swampcircus.co.uk 07775 857677 What's on - continues on page 9 >>>>

Cornish Seal Sanctuary preps for another busy pup season!

With pup season now well underway, staff at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary are prepping for another busy winter.

Last year, the marine rescue charity, based in Gweek, near Helston, saw a total of 50 grey seal pups treated by the animal care team, with an incredible 86% release rate!

This year, the team are expecting just as many (if not more) pups to make it through the doors throughout the season, which normally runs from September to March.

On average, it costs the charity £2,000 to put a seal pup through its rescue, rehabilitation and release programme, which includes everything from equipment to vets bills and food supplies.

But every penny is worth it! By supporting these seal pups, we can ensure they get back out to the wild where they belong.

So, how can you help?

Money from every visit to the Sanctuary go towards funding this vital conservation work, ensuring our Cornish grey seal population remains strong and healthy.

But, if you can’t make it in person, you can donate via sealsanctuary.sealifetrust.com What to do if you find a pup on the beach If you see a seal pup on the beach, beachgoers are advised to keep dogs on leads and children away, and not to approach or chase the seal back into the sea.

If you believe a pup is in trouble, call the Sanctuary directly on 01326 221361 or British Divers Marine Life Rescue on 01825 765546. seals@sealitrust.com Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Gweek nr Helston, TR12 6UG

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Cornwall Libraries – More Than Just Books!

Cornwall Libraries have something for everyone. There are no joining or membership costs and all the libraries are fine-free! There are 29 libraries around Cornwall with books for adults and children plus regular free activities ranging from Rhyme Times, Lego Clubs and lots more. Who else runs such a fantastic service – absolutely free with no cost to their customer?

Nearly 9000 children took part in this Summer’s Reading Challenge – continuing their reading during the summer holidays, enjoying prizes, medals, and amazing events including roller skating sessions, and even a pedal-powered, shake-creating Milkshake Bike!

But it doesn’t stop there, keep your eyes peeled for free winter events…

Cornwall Libraries are linking up with Hall for Cornwall ahead of this year’s pantomime, and they will be visiting various libraries throughout the autumn with Peter Pan-related fun! Plus, some lucky classes will see Cornish comedian Ed Rowe’s funny History of Cornwall, a fantastic show dedicated to all things Cornish.

See Earth as never before…

Gaia, the spectacular touring artwork by artist Luke Jerram, will be at Truro Cathedral for all to see this October.

Measuring seven metres in diameter, Gaia is 1.8 million times smaller than the real planet, giving you the chance to gaze at Earth, as it’s seen from space. A specially-made surround-sound composition will be played alongside the presentation.

There will be a range of additional events and activities to enjoy too, including the chance to experience Gaia by Night and take a Celestial Heights Tour to view from above (age restrictions apply).

Donations are encouraged. Ticketing and charges apply for late-night viewings and wider events.

For full details, to buy tickets and to sign up for updates, visit: www.trurocathedral.org.uk Image: Gaia, 2019 (c) W5, Belfast

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There’s stuff for grown-ups too…

As well as ebooks and e-audiobooks (for children and adults), you can download Newspapers and Magazines completely FREE of charge!

Choose your favourites and set them to download automatically. All you need to do is join the library – you can even join online.

Joining your local library is free and there is something for all the family – not just Books! (Though they are splendid!) For a list of local libraries and how to join online visit http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/ library Follow Cornwall libraries and specific libraries on Facebook and Instagram. 0300 1234111

>>>> What's on - continued from page 7 Museum of Cornish Life, Helston. Free entry, Mon to Sat, 10am to 4pm. 23 & 26 Oct: Krafty Kids. Free, themed, craft activities for 3yrs+ & adults, for more information visit www.museumofcornishlife.co.uk 25 Nov: Christmas craft fair.

Raze the Roof soft play, virtual reality & laser tag arena, Penryn.

28 Oct, 5 to 7.30pm: celebrate Halloween in ghoulish style at a spooktacular party! Prizes for all in Halloween fancy dress, ghastly games & activities including Spoon ‘n’ Eyeball races and haunted disco. Spooks £11.50 (includes a haunted hot dog & spooky juice), adults £1. ZOMBIE VR games additional £5. Book on 01326 377481 Email: hello@razevr.fun www.razevr.fun/book

© Sand in Your Eye

The Lost Gardens of Heligan, www.heligan.com Under 5s go free, (Heligan Local’s Pass - pay once get in free for a year.) 21 to 29 Oct: Experience a bug-tacular Halloween adventure with wild encounters (spiders, snakes and other creepy creatures), spooky crafting activities and marshmallow toasting. 27 to 29 Oct: brave the Carved Pumpkin Trail by day or at dusk, with amazingly carved Giant pumpkin characters and giant spiders!

26 & 28 Oct: Heligan Halloween Fancy Dress Party with games, music, firepits, crafts, dancing, tricks and treats! 5 to 7.30pm, begin with a spooky candlelit pumpkin trail through eerie twisting branches then enter the Haunted Chamber for a totally fang-tastic party with the ghostly team (and one or two giant spiders!) £16.50 per child (ages 2 to 12), inc hot-dogs / vegan option, a drink & Halloween treats, accompanying adult free. novelEnglish is a wonderfully different, educational enterprise in the heart of the Lizard, running multi-day residential courses for children (non-residential options too). This half-term delve into Dickens and the ‘orrible world of Oliver Twist. Dare you ask for more?! To find out more, email enquiries@novelenglish.co.uk www.novelenglish.co.uk Mark’s Ark Wildlife Encounters will be at Paradise Park this half term, see paradisepark.org These safe, controlled, close-encounters with exotic animals are brilliant for birthday parties, playgroups, and schools. Fully insured, risk assessed, competitively priced and suitable for all ages.

Mark’s Ark also provides sessions to enrich the school curriculum on Climate Change, species loss and the impact of humans on our planet. To organise a wildlife encounter for your school or birthday contact Mark on 07761 810900.

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The Steren School of Ballet opens Pool and St Day with ballet classes from as little as birth. Miss Jessica’s enchanting classes bring movement, music, creativity, education and development together. Classes include Early Years ballet, Royal Academy of Dance, pre-pointe & pointe, creative contemporary, and adults, details on www.sterenballet.co.uk 07515 129358 or scan QR code page 11.

Falmouth Art Gallery, free entry, and activities. Artist-led family drop-in workshops on the first Saturday of the month 10am to 1pm. All other Saturdays: doodle table available all day, self-led creative activity. Baby Paint, Baby Jam and Little Fingers early years’ sessions available. www.falmouthartgallery.com 01326 313863 What's on - continues on page 12 >>>>

Calling all zombies, little monsters and witches!

Come and join an amazing free, family-friendly Halloween event, THE NEWQUAY ZOMBIE CRAWL!!

SPOOKY NEWQUAY will be getting into the Halloween spirit with terrifying special offers, scary discos, Halloween trails, a ghost train (charge applies), stilt-walking Zombie Pirates roaming the streets, face-painters, wound-makers, outfit and banner workshops, scary storytelling and dance workshops.

Embrace your inner monster from 11.30 with free workshops, then the Zombie Crawl at 3pm, meet at Sainsburys car park (children must be accompanied by an adult).

For more details and timings go to www.newquaybid.co.uk

28 October at 5 - 7.30pm Spooktacular Halloween fancy dress party with Ghastly Games & Haunted Disco

Gel Blasters -

Indoor Play - Parties - VR - Laser Tag razetheroof.co.uk

Minnows Tales, NMMC, Falmouth, term time, drop-in 11 to 11.30am, stories, songs, and rhymes for under 5s, free, adults free with annual pass Toddler Time, Hall for Cornwall’s Green Room Café, 10am themed crafts, music and games with the friendly and Tues energetic Get Creative Team for ages 2 to 6 years, £4 www.hallforcornwall.co.uk Friday Storytelling, The Box, Plymouth, every Friday 10.30am, free admission Sat Arty Afternoons, Penlee House, Penzance, 2.30 to 3.30pm, free entry & activities; make Lamorna leaf garlands, Penzance souvenirs, barrel rubbings, geometric shapes, Roman mosaic tiles 30 Sep Friends & Family Open Days, Happy Days Truro: Penair, Playbox & Truro City; Treloweth, Falmouth, Summercourt, & Penrice (St Austell), 10am to 1pm, family-themed activities, email kelly.russell@happydaysnurseries.com All Oct See Earth as never before…Gaia, spectacular enormous artwork, Truro Cathedral, gaze at Earth, as it’s seen from space. Experience Gaia by Night - high-level gallery tour, see page 8, www.trurocathedral.org.uk 2, 16, Free, baby play sessions, Penlee House, Penzance, 10 to 11.30 am, explore sensory play in the gallery & 30 Oct experience amazing artworks.

6, 7 & How to Catch a Book Witch, Coppice Theatre’s open-hearted show for age 3+, with live music and puppets, 9 Oct keyword signing, integrated captions, & audio-described option. 6 Oct Saltash Library. 7 Oct Kresen Kernow. 9 Oct St Austell Library. For other venues see 23 to 27 Oct www.coppicetheatre.co.uk 7 & 8 Lostwithiel Fun Palace, help make wonderful creations (costumes, props, lanterns, bunting and printmaking) for Lostwithiel’s winter festival, 12 noon to 4pm www.reallylovelyprojects.org.uk Oct 8 Oct Kids for a Quid, Helston Railway, Trevarno Farm, Prospidnick 12, 13 Pipsqueak - The Adventures of a Magical Dragon, Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport Park, Plymouth, & 14 magical adventure about a gardener, his little dragon, a greedy king & pumpkin competition! For 18 months to 8 years. 11am & 2pm on 14 Oct, stiltskin.org.uk 07449 724261 Oct 14 Oct Chyan Apple Fair, Halvasso, Penryn, 12noon to 6pm, apple juicing, bands, dance, Mr B’s clown show, circus, cakes, cafe, archery, crafts, apple exhibition, healers & spa. Cash only event...adults £6, child £3 info@chyan.org Monthly Make Club, Endelienta Arts, St Endellion, Port Isaac, create landscape concertina sketches exploring pattern, colour, texture, light, & shadow, artist-led, from 10am to 12pm, parents can join in, £5 per family; must book tickets@endelienta.org.uk. www.endelienta.org.uk 14/10+ Planet PK Champions free environmental club, PK Porthcurno, art, science & positive climate messages, 10.30 to 18/11 12noon, 14 Oct: build bug hotels & bird feeders; 18 Nov: light up Montol masks. book pkporthcurno.com Suns Festive Sundays at Chyan, Halvasso, Penryn, 11am to 12.30pm yoga / circus for all; 1 to 2.30pm plant-based, from Sunday Roast lunch. £6, or £12 with lunch. Half price for benefits/children.

15 Oct Book at www.ticketsource.co.uk/swamp-circus 16/10.. 2 Marys, 5 Jacks, and 1 Very Big Shoe, numerous nursery rhymes are recreated in this fast-paced theatre show, 4/11 laughter, music and song. For 2 to 5 years & families. On tour - see page 15, 01736 810181 poppanoodle.org.uk 18 to Halloweden, Eden Project, special quest to protect the world’s forests, guided by legendary Tree Giants, hear 29 Oct extraordinary tales and witness enchanting performances, (additional charge + pre-book for the wickedly fun ice rink and wand-making workshop) www.edenproject.com 20..28 Madagascar the Musical, Theatre Royal Plymouth, starring Karim Zeroual as King Julien, 01752 267222 21 Oct Tales from a Haunted Bookshop, AMATA, Penryn, spooky show of terrible tales, bothersome books, & gruesome goings-on, for horrid children and irresponsible adults. www.coppicetheatre.co.uk Apple Day, NT Pentire, Wadebridge, free event, music & apple harvest-inspired activities in the restored orchard, 12 to 4pm, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cornwall 21 to Silhouettes & Shadows, NMMC, Falmouth, take to the spooky high seas for eerie songs & ghostly shadow puppet 29 Oct stories; create puppets; find pirate ghosts on the Museum trail. Activities FREE with the annual admission fee Bug-tacular Halloween adventure, Heligan, under 5s free, wild encounters, spooky crafts, toast marshmallows.

27 to 29 Oct: Carved Pumpkin Trail by day or dusk, with amazingly carved Giant pumpkin characters and spiders!

Dazzling beetles & beautiful flowers, The Box, Plymouth, free, fun activities around ‘Dutch Flowers’ exhibition.

Halloween half term, Pendennis Castle, Falmouth, spooky storytellers, solve creepy clues in the Halloween Quest.

Book online 10%off english-heritage.org.uk/Pendennis Spooky-filled adventure, Paradise Park, Hayle, Mark’s Ark creepy crawly wildlife encounters (10am to 12.30pm 21, 22, 24, 26 & 29 Oct), a pumpkin trail, spooky treats, scary dinosaurs & skeletons lurking, come dressed up. £2pp off using code BLACKBIRD Howling Halloween, Newquay Zoo spooky storytelling, creepy crafts & ghoulish treats, wear fabulous fancy dress, spaces limited, book online www.newquayzoo.org.uk Creepy Crab Invasion! National Lobster Hatchery, your help is needed, creepy crabs have taken over the Hatchery! Spooky games, activities, crafts, treasure hunts, colouring-in, included with entry / annual passes.

Creatures Of the Night, Trebah Garden, Mawnan Smith, brand new fun trail, explore & discover facts about nocturnal animals, £2, includes a prize.

Cornwall’s most exciting childcare, Via Ferrata, book a half or full day, drop them off for an epic time. viaferratacornwall.co.uk/holiday-club/ or have a family day out Zip Wire Safari or Via Ferrata Scaryland Dairyland, creepy craft workshop, pumpkins, Tractor Ride through Witches Wood, Bull Pen soft play Halloween half term, NT Trerice, visit the witch’s lair, spooky stories & creepy crawlies around the house, conjure up potions outside. 23 Oct: dress up in “Tudor” costume! All free with entry www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cornwall Willow Crowns, NT Glendurgan, free with entry; decorate willow crowns with colourful fallen leaves, leaf rubbing & sketching, learn about ancient orchards, look at beehives and try on a beekeeping outfit! Please mention BBP 21 to Apple Harvest celebrations, NT Godolphin, free with entry. Please mention BPP 29 Oct Harvest Celebration, NT Cotehele Mill, free with entry, leaf hedgehogs and puppet scarecrows, local craft makers 21 to Dormouse garden trail, NT Lanhydrock, help dormouse & his friends gather food for a perfect autumn feast, 31 Oct £3+admission price 22 to Autumn-themed family activities, NT Trengwainton, splash & crunch garden sensory trail, make leaf bunting, 29 Oct printing with leaves, free with entry.

Mon

Festive Sundays at Chyan From 15 October

£6 or £12 with lunch (half-price for benefits / children)

11am - 12.30am Yoga / Circus 1pm - 2.30pm plant-based Sunday roast lunch Text 07775 857677 for lifts from Penryn station Book at www.ticketsource.co.uk/swamp-circus office@swampcircus.co.uk

Penryn

23 to There’s a Monster in Your Show, Hall for Cornwall, Truro, brand-new interactive musical inspired by Tom 24 Oct Fletcher’s Who’s In Your Book? Series. A perfect introduction to live theatre. www.hallforcornwall.co.uk 23 & Storytelling with John Brolly: The Lonely Lighthouse Keeper, Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, 10.30am. £10 adults, 25 Oct under 16s £5, 01736 810181 23 & Krafty Kids, Museum of Cornish Life, Helston, free entry & free, themed, craft activities for 3yrs+ & adults, 26 Oct www.museumofcornishlife.co.uk 23 to Young Potters, Leach Pottery, Beagle Cross, St Ives. 23 & 24 Oct: drop-in 10am to 12.30pm, glaze a tiny pot, all 26 Oct ages. 25 & 26 Oct: wheel workshop, intro-throwing, 7-11 years, £10 charmaine.orkamfat@leachpottery.com 23, 25 Airymouse! PK Porthcurno, 23 & 25 Oct Pop-Up Planet PK Spooky Shadows! 1.30 to 3.30pm, bats and spooky & 27 shadows play in the Airymouse exhibition. 27 Oct: Pop-Up Mini PK Tours from 1pm, go batty in the bunkers!

23 to Peter Pan Library Tour, Hall for Cornwall returns with free Peter Pan-themed workshops! Peter Pan will fly into 10 27 Oct local libraries, before taking over Hall for Cornwall from 4 to 31 Dec. www.hallforcornwall.co.uk Gory special effects makeup & more! Bodmin Keep, 26 & 27 Oct 12noon to 2pm: learn amazing special effects makeup & prosthetic wounds with Dainty & Decay, £6 pp. 25 Oct at 2pm: weapons handling £3 pp. 23-27 Oct: museum trails with prize, £2pp. www.bodminkeep.org.uk How to Catch a Book Witch, Coppice Theatre’s show for age 3+, see page 17. 23/10 Burrell Theatre, Truro. 24/10 2pm Sterts studio, Upton Cross. 25/10 2pm Acorn, Penzance. 26/10 2pm Poly, Falmouth. 27/10 St Ives Library 24 Oct The Swordstorian: Tales of the Blade, The Poly, Falmouth, see page 13, tales of blades forged long ago, myths, legends and a few facts. Then look at some weapons, for age 5+, 11am, thepoly.org 01326 319461 Top Secret – The Magic of Science, Launceston Town Hall, 2pm www.eventbrite.com 24 to Delve into Dickens! novelEnglish multi-day courses, the Lizard, discover the ‘orrible world of Oliver Twist. Dare you 27 Oct ask for more?! To book or find out more, www.novelenglish.co.uk 25 & Spooky Science sessions, The Parkhouse Centre, Bude, Cognition Learning’s spooktacularly fun workshops for 5 26 Oct to 11 years, £15, cognitionlearning.co.uk/october-half-term-2023 25-29 Halloween trains! Helston Railway, Trevarno Farm, Prospidnick, 25 & 26 Oct evening train & 29 Oct daytime train 26 Oct Spooky spectacular Allantide! Castle an Dinas, St Columb Major, from 12noon, Cornwall Heritage Trust is transforming the historic hillfort for Cornwall’s Halloween with apple crafting, hubble bubble potion-making, spellbinding storytelling & more! free spine-tingling event! www.cornwallheritagetrust.org Arthur’s Club Live: Stories from The Island, Liskerrett Centre, 11.30am, inclusive children’s theatre show, stories by award-winning authors. Keyword signing woven into storytelling; for 3 to 9 years, £1pp www.liskerrett.co.uk 26 & Heligan Halloween Fancy Dress Parties, games, music, firepits, crafts, dancing, tricks and treats! 5 to 7.30pm, 28 Oct spooky candlelit pumpkin trail then enter the Haunted Chamber for a fang-tastic party with the ghostly team and giant spiders! £16.50 child (ages 2 to 12), inc hot-dogs / vegan option, a drink & Halloween treats, adults free.

26 to Kids go free! Lowender Celtic Festival, Redruth’s family-friendly Cornish culture festival with music, dance, 29 Oct Cornish language, & singing www.lowender.co.uk 26 & Shivers And Shadows, Squashbox Theatre’s frights, hilarious horrors, ingenious puppetry, 26 Oct 4pm: Acorn, 27 Oct Penzance 01736 363545 theacornpenzance.com. 27 Oct 1pm: Heartlands, Pool, www.heartlandscornwall.com 27 & Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Jr. Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, youth production by the British Theatre 28 Oct Academy & the Minack Theatre, see pages 14 & 16 28 Oct Zombie Crawl!! Spooky Newquay, amazing free, family-friendly Halloween event, see page 9: scary discos, Halloween trails, stilt-walking, ghost train (charge applies), Zombie Pirates, wound-makers, outfit & banner workshops, scary stories, dance workshops. Free workshops from 11.30am, then the Zombie Crawl at 3pm Halloween spooktacular party! Raze the Roof, Penryn, 5 to 7.30pm, fancy dress prizes, ghastly games & haunted disco. Spooks £11.50 (inc. a haunted hot dog & spooky juice), adults £1. Book www.razevr.fun/book or QR above Spooky Science special after-hours event, The Box, Plymouth, for families, book theboxplymouth.com 29 Oct Autumn Rockpool Ramble, Hannafore Beach, West Looe, find cool crabs & stunning starfish with local experts, 11am to 12.15pm, free but book 07539 530020 / email: looemcg.events@gmail.com 30 Oct Halloween Disco Party, Jungle Jack’s, Newquay, DJ Skippy, 4 to 6pm, disco, party games, fancy dress prizes, soft-play, tickets inc. burger or hotdog & chips; child £10, adult £1.50, tickets: reception or 01637 852890 31 Oct Fancy Dress & Glow-in-the-Dark Cricket Fundraising Event, Cornwall Cricket Centre, Truro College Campus, spooky costume comp, Halloween games, 5pm to 7.30pm, £5 child, £3 adult, book booking.ecb.co.uk/d/tpqkk9 31/10+ Little Story Seekers, Redruth Library, free story, song, movement & craft sessions for very young children & their 28/11 grown-ups, with Jo Lumber, created by The Writers’ Block, 2pm.

3 Nov Bonfire Night display, Tremorvah Playing Field, Truro, gates open 5pm, bonfire lit 6.30pm, fireworks display 7pm, £3 adult, £1 under 16s, cash only; Best Guy Fawkes competition, visittruro.org.uk 4 Nov WNO Play Opera Live: Space Spectacular, Theatre Royal Plymouth, WNO’s space-themed interactive family show. From 1.30pm: free foyer activities - alien face-painting & intergalactic treasure hunt, 01752 267222 Monthly Make Club, Endelienta Arts, St Endellion, Earthsong: music and movement with Endelienta Baroque, 10am to 12pm, £5 family, book tickets@endelienta.org.uk www.endelienta.org.uk 5 Nov Heartlands Bonfire and Fireworks Spectacular, Pool, Cornwall’s largest FREE bonfire & firework show!

10, 11, Frozen Jnr, Liskeard Public Hall, Sterts Juniors’ production of the Disney classic, 7pm & 18 Nov at 2pm, 17, 18 01579 362382 www.sterts.co.uk 11 Nov Science Adventures: Deep Sea, Stithians, aquatic adventure with puppets, age 5+, www.coppicetheatre.co.uk 11 & Is That a Bolt in Your Neck? Bonzo Moose’s gripping comedy horror, fast-paced fun and thrilling action, age 8+.

12 Nov 11 Nov 7.30pm Crackington Institute. 12 Nov 2.30pm Calstock Village Hall www.carntocove.co.uk 01209 312500 16 & Splash Test Dummies, Rub-a-dub-dub, dazzling acrobatics, dexterous juggling & slapstick family comedy, 17 Nov 16 Nov 7.30pm: Acorn, Penzance 01736 363545. 17 Nov 6pm: Launceston Town Hall, www.eventbrite.com 16 to The world premiere of Bal Maiden the Musical, Princess Pav, Falmouth, proper-Cornish, family musical: the story 18 Nov of a hard-working, pasty-loving bal maiden, original songs & live orchestra, 7.30pm. Age 7+ www.seetickets.com 24 Nov Christmas Lights Switch-on, Truro, 3pm: Pirate FM, 5pm: live entertainment, 7pm: the festive lights switch-on, live music. Big Festive Shop Small Market, Lemon Quay until 9pm. www.visittruro.org.uk 29 Nov Father Christmas Parade, Truro, from 6.30pm. Santa, sleigh, elves, circus performers, late-night shopping.

Play Therapy is a specialized form of counselling that is designed for children.

Play is a child’s natural form of communication and offers a child the safety of being distanced from their reality. A qualified and experienced Play Therapist can enter your child’s ‘world of play’ and help identify any difficulties your child might be communicating.

Children can use their play to work through their problems, with their Play Therapist to support them. In addition, your child’s Play Therapist will often make suggestions for ways to support your child at home and in school.

The Cornwall Play Therapy Associates website is designed to be a first point of contact for finding out about Play Therapy and how to find a fully qualified and experienced Play Therapist.

www.cornwallplaytherapyassociates.co.uk Please feel free to contact any of the Associates for a free, no-obligation chat.

>>>> What’s on - continued from page 9 Newquay Leisure World is perfect for a high octane, uber-energetic family day out. The trampoline park is more than just a bouncing experience with a host of interactive games and activities and plenty of high-quality trampoline beds. You can test your reflexes in the reaction pods or have a bit of friendly competition climbing, sliding, and racing on the timed obstacle course. Next to it is a monster-themed soft play area for younger children with a treehouse, slides, balance beams, mini trampolines, crawl tubes, and baby area. The leisure pool has fab slides and water features; Book www.better.org.uk/newquay Wheal Play at Heartlands. Pool. Bright and colourful mining-themed soft play centre with a cheery team. Open Monday to Sunday, call 01209 707308 for times. Child £4.95 adults £1, local’s discount available for TR postcodes. Their range of fun parties include soft play, bouncy castles, disco & archery.

E: whealplay@heartlandscornwall.com 27 Oct at 1pm: Squashbox Theatre: Shivers and Shadows Expect an overflowing cauldron of a show, brimming with delightful frights and hilarious horrors, bubbling with ingenious puppetry and comedy. £6.50, family (2 adults/ 2 children) £24.

5 Nov: The Heartlands Bonfire and Fireworks Spectacular Cornwall’s largest FREE bonfire & firework show!

Jungle Jack’s, Newquay, Monday 30 Oct, 4 to 6pm: Halloween Disco Party with the marvellous DJ Skippy. Disco, party games, fancy dress competition and soft-play - tickets include burger or hotdog & chips. Children £10, adults £1.50, tickets from reception or 01637 852890. 1,700 square feet of challenging climbs, rope bridge, astra-glide slide, crafty crawl tubes and a baby and toddler area. Book online & use discount code BBP01OFF for £1 off, www.junglejacks.co.uk. Free play & entry for under 1s, adult entry just £1.50. Six-month limitless entry pass just £60, email info@ junglejacks.co.uk. Ample seating, a well-stocked café and free WiFi.

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Paradise Park, Hayle, save £2pp off entry this half term using code BLACKBIRD when booking online paradisepark.org. 21 to 29 Oct: Spooky-filled adventure and wonderful wildlife with special appearances by Mark’s Ark creepy crawly wildlife encounters (10am to 12noon 21, 22, 24, 26 & 29 Oct), a pumpkin trail & spooky treats, discover the extraordinary Dracula parrot; special ‘Meet & Greets’ with wonderful characters like Frank the Eagle Owl, and watch the very cute new otter pups playing and creating mayhem!

£1

OFF: book on-line & use code

BBP01OFF

Look out for Halloween-inspired food for the animals, scary dinosaurs & skeletons lurking around the Park, & the Jungle Express Train tunnel will be Halloween-themed (small extra charge). Come dressed up, take photos with the creepy graveyard scenes as backdrops.

For JungleBarn Indoor Play pre-book ‘Park & JungleBarn’ tickets. 01736 751020.

PK Porthcurno, Planet PK Champions free environmental club using art and science to engage with nature & positive climate messages. 10.30am to 12noon, 14 Oct: build Bug Hotel & bird feeders; 18 Nov: create light up Montol masks. Clore Learning Space, book pkporthcurno.com. 23 & 25 Oct Pop-Up Planet PK Spooky Shadows! 1.30 to 3.30pm, bats and spooky shadows play in the Airymouse exhibition. 27 Oct: Pop-Up Mini PK Tours from 1pm, family-friendly tour of the bunkers and learn about bats!

Lostwithiel Fun Palace 7 & 8 Oct: help make and decorate wonderful creations (costumes, props, lanterns, bunting and printmaking) to be used in the town’s winter festival installations, parades and New Year’s Eve, 12 noon to 4pm. For details visit www.reallylovelyprojects.org.uk Leach Pottery, Beagle Cross, St Ives. 23 & 24 Oct, drop-in 10am to 12.30pm, glaze your own tiny pot, for all ages; your pots will be fired and posted. 25 & 26 Oct, Young Potters Wheel Workshop, an introduction to throwing, 10 to 11am or 1.30 to 2.30pm, 7-11 years, £10 per child. 18 Nov, make swirly decorations, all ages, £10pp.

To book a place email: charmaine.orkamfat@leachpottery.com www.leachpottery.com Endelienta Arts, St Endellion, Port Isaac. Monthly Make Club, a fun space to explore, create and get messy, led by inspirational artists, from 10am to 12pm, parents can join in, £5 per family. 14 Oct: Landscape Drawing - create landscape concertina sketches exploring pattern, colour, texture, light and shadow; must book tickets@endelienta.org.uk www.endelienta.org.uk Truro City Centre 24 Nov: Festive Friday with Christmas Lights Switch-on and more, brought to the city by Truro BID, sponsored

by Coodes Solicitors. From 3pm: Pirate FM’s Johnny Cowling, 5pm: live entertainment, 7pm: the festive lights switch-on, then live music.

The Big Festive Shop Small Market will be on Lemon Quay all day until 9pm. www.visittruro.org.uk.

29 Nov: Father Christmas Parade, from 6.30pm. Santa in his sleigh, elves, dance groups, musicians, and circus performers will parade around the city. Coincides with Truro’s first Wednesday Late Night Shopping. www.visittruro.org.uk

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Theatre Shows Hall for Cornwall, Truro hallforcornwall.co.uk 01872 262466 Summer might have ended, but the fun doesn’t have to! Hall for Cornwall’s shows and workshops will keep you entertained until Christmas – and beyond!

Kicking off the autumn 23 to 24 Oct is There’s a Monster In Your Show, a brand-new interactive musical inspired by Tom Fletcher’s Who’s In Your Book? Series. Follow Monster and friends on a journey of comedy and chaos in this perfect introduction to live theatre.

For tiny tots, Toddler Time runs Tuesdays at 10am in Hall for Cornwall’s Green Room Café. Take part in crafts, music and games with their friendly and energetic Get Creative Team! Each week has its own theme – check their social media for more details.

After the popularity of last year’s Treasure Island Library Tour, Hall for Cornwall returns with free Peter Pan-themed workshops from 23 to 27 Oct – perfect for all ages! Keep your eyes peeled for the 10 local libraries that Peter Pan will fly into, before taking over Hall for Cornwall from 4 to 31 Dec. Join Peter, Wendy, Tinker Bell and the lost boys on a fun-filled festive adventure, with Kernow King returning as Captain Hook!

Looking to 2024, Bluey’s Big Play, The Gruffalo’s Child, Pop Princesses and David Walliams’ Awful Auntie promise even more fun and adventure.

There’s something magical about the theatre experience, so what are you waiting for? Meet your favourite characters, live on stage at Hall for Cornwall!

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Princess Pavilion, Falmouth https://www.seetickets.com/event/bal-maiden-musical 16, 17 & 18 Nov at 7.30pm: the world premiere performance of Bal Maiden, an original Cornish musical. The story begins at Dong Ding bal, the mine where Merryn, a hard-working, pasty-loving bal maiden works. Watch her story unfold with original songs accompanied by a live orchestra. Family-friendly show (sad in places and funny in others). Age 7+ Sterts Theatre 01579 362382 www.sterts.co.uk at Sterts Studio, Upton Cross - 24 Oct at 2pm: Coppice’s How To Catch A Book Witch, see page 17. At Liskeard Public Hall – 10, 11, 17 & 18 Nov at 7pm and 2pm 18 Nov: Frozen Jnr – the Disney classic brought to life by Sterts Juniors. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humour.

The Poly, Falmouth thepoly.org. 01326 319461 24 Oct at 11am: The Swordstorian: Tales of the Blade Join the Swordstorian for tales of blades forged long ago. Expect dashing heroes and scurvy villains, myths, legends and a few facts. After the tales, take a closer look at some of the weapons from the stories.

Suitable for age 5+. Swashbuckling Cornwall specialise in bringing the past to life in a creative way.

26 Oct at 2pm: Coppice’s How To Catch A Book Witch, see page 17.

Theatre Royal Plymouth, 01752 267222 www.theatreroyal.com 20 to 28 Oct Madagascar the Musical starring CBBC star, Karim Zeroual as King Julien.

4 Nov WNO Play Opera Live: Space Spectacular, Travel through the depths of space on a musical voyage. Experience extra-terrestrial activity, learn fun facts, with Welsh National Opera’s space-themed interactive and educational family show for all ages. From 1.30pm: free foyer activities including alien face-painting & an intergalactic treasure hunt.

20 to 25 Nov Edward Scissorhands. Matthew Bourne’s magical dance production based on the classic Tim Burton movie, age 5+ Launceston Town Hall, www.eventbrite.com 24 Oct at 2pm: Top Secret – The Magic of Science, mysterious magic fused with wondrous and miraculous feats of science!

17 Nov 6pm: Splash Test Dummies, details see Acorn, below.

Liskerrett Centre 26 Oct at 11.30am: Arthur’s Club Live presents Stories from The Island. Join Cornish performer and Makaton teacher Rebecca Hulbert for an inclusive children’s theatre show featuring original stories by a team of award-winning children’s storybook authors. Keyword signing is woven into the storytelling, for 3 to 9 year olds. £1 per person. www.liskerrett.co.uk The Acorn Penzance 01736 363545 theacornpenzance.com 25 Oct 2pm: Coppice’s How To Catch A Book Witch, see page 17.

26 Oct 4pm: Squashbox’s Halloween show, see page 17, Heartlands.

16 Nov 7.30pm: Splash Test Dummies, Rub-a-dub-dub, brilliant stunt work, dazzling acrobatics, dexterous juggling and side-splitting, slapstick comedy, an exciting hour of circus-filled hilarity for the whole family.

Poppanoodle Theatre on tour poppanoodle.org.uk Tickets: Minack Box Office 01736 810181 www.minack.com/poppanoodle-theatre Numerous nursery rhymes are recreated in this fast-paced theatre show with laughter, music and song.

Morning and afternoon performances: 16/10, Cornubia, Par. 17/10, Stenalees.

19/10, Calstock Arts. 20/10, Ivor Potter Hall, Bude. 23/10, Callington Town Hall.

24/10, Wadebridge Town Hall.

26/10, Launceston Town Hall. 27/10, Newlyn Centre.

1/11, Highway Church, Penryn. 2/11, Millbrook Village Hall.

3/11, Tregony Village Hall. 4/11, Kresen Kernow, Redruth.

D See list 15

The Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, minack.com 01736 810181 23 & 25 Oct at 10.30am: Storytelling with John Brolly - The Lonely Lighthouse Keeper. A clever, funny cautionary tale - Percy imagines a lonely, peaceful life in a lighthouse but when his noisy knitting-obsessed neighbour visits him, things get out of hand. £10 adults, under 16s £5 27 & 28 Oct at 1 & 4pm: Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Jr. A youth production by the British Theatre Academy & the Minack Theatre. Book by Kevin Del Aguila, music and score by George Noriega & Joel Someillan. Get a taste of the wild life with Alex the lion and his friends in this crazy adventure based on the DreamWorks animated motion picture. Alex is king of the urban jungle, but when Marty the Zebra escapes from the zoo with a boatload of penguins, it’s up to Alex, Melman the giraffe and Gloria the hippo to get them out of trouble. This production leaves you with no choice but to ‘Move It, Move It!’ Tickets from £10 (under 16s half price).

The photo above is of last October’s production of Moana Jr. created by the same team.

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Photo by Hugh Hastings

Do you have a passion for performance?

Want to sing or dance on stage? Then Hall for Cornwall Youth is for you!

Work with industry professionals to explore creativity, collaboration and choreography in regular workshops, while working towards exciting projects – this summer, 200 of the students performed on the Hall for Cornwall stage in a two-day showcase of their work!

One of the Youth dancers said: ‘I’ve been part of the Hall for Youth Dance Company for 10 years and performing on the Hall for Cornwall stage at the showcase was a beautiful dream come true.’

If this sounds like something you’ve always dreamed of, then discover the workshops for ages 5 to 19.

Join at hallforcornwall.co.uk or email getcreative@hallforcornwall.org.uk

Unlock Your Child’s Potential at MagiKats Tuition Centre in Truro!

Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport Park, Plymouth. stiltskin.org.uk 07449 724261 12, 13 & 14 Oct 11am & 2pm on 14 Oct: Stiltskin Theatre Company’s Pipsqueak - The Adventures of a Magical Dragon, magical, heart-warming and fun-packed adventure about Sam the gardener, his little dragon, a greedy king and a pumpkin-growing competition! For 18 months to 8 years.

Regal Theatre, Redruth. 01209 216278 www.regaltheatre-redruth.co.uk Strictly speaking not children’s shows, but ones for families to share: 5 Oct Elvis Santoro as Elvis. World Champion Emilio, won both ‘The King Professional’ World Championship and the ‘Images of the Kings World Championship’ in Elvis’ hometown of Memphis, Tennessee.

15 Oct Mum’s The Word. The Mother of all Shows. The stuff nobody tells you about parenthood…until it’s too late. This witty, entertaining show stars Eastenders’ Cheryl Fergison.

27 Oct The Good Old Fashioned Lover Boys – Queen Live! a fantastic family show with faithfully recreated highlights from some of Queen’s legendary concerts, including Live at The Rainbow, Wembley 86 and the fabled Live Aid performance.

16 Nov The Drifters are back on tour with classic hits: Saturday Night at the Movies, You’re More Than a Number, Come on Over to My Place, Under the Boardwalk, Kissin’ in The Back Row and more.

Is your child ready for an exciting and educational learning adventure? Look no further than MagiKats Tuition Centre in Truro – the perfect place for small group tuition that sparks young minds!

Fun Learning: At MagiKats, we make learning enjoyable with interactive activities. Our games, puzzles, and projects foster curiosity and creativity, making education a thrilling journey.

Trusted Tutors: Our experienced tutors are fully trained and ready to guide your child. With years of teaching expertise, they offer personalised support for every student.

Parent-Approved: Hear it from a satisfied parent: ‘MagiKats was fantastic for my daughter. They boosted her confidence and maths skills. Learning was adapted to her needs, and it was always fun.’

Positive Environment: We nurture confidence through positive praise. Your child will tackle challenges with newfound courage and enthusiasm.

Heartlands, Pool. www.heartlandscornwall.com 27 Oct at 1pm: Squashbox Theatre: Shivers And Shadows Join Craig as he explores the creepy mansion he has inherited from his Great Uncle Vladimir and meet the strange and spooky inhabitants. Expect an overflowing cauldron of a show, brimming with delightful frights and hilarious horrors, bubbling with ingenious puppetry and comedy.

For brave children aged 6+.

Wide Age Range: Whether your child is 5 or studying for GCSEs, we cater to various ages. Tailored support ensures each child gets the right help.

Boosting Confidence: Our holistic approach empowers students not only academically but also with problem-solving and communication skills.

Coppice Theatre On Tour www.coppicetheatre.co.uk How to Catch a Book Witch. Kira loves reading and visiting the library is her favourite thing but one day the words in the books start to disappear and she is heartbroken to hear the library may be knocked down. With the aid of a friendly bookworm, can Kira uncover the twin mysteries of vanishing words and emerging book monsters?!

Could there be a Book Witch in the library? An open-hearted show for age 3+, with live music and puppets, and including keyword signing, integrated captions, and an optional audio-described version. ​6 Oct Saltash Library. 7 Oct Kresen Kernow. 9 Oct St Austell Library.

23 Oct Burrell Theatre, Truro. 24 Oct Sterts studio. 25 Oct The Acorn, Penzance. 26 Oct The Poly, Falmouth. 27 Oct St Ives Library.

Tales from a Haunted Bookshop, a spooky show of terrible tales, bothersome books, and gruesome goings on! A weird and wonderfully dark show for horrid children and irresponsible adults.

21Oct AMATA, Penryn.

Science Adventures: Deep Sea - an exciting aquatic adventure with puppetry, animation and storytelling. Age 5+. 11 Nov Stithians.

Carn to Cove events Is That a Bolt in Your Neck? Bonzo Moose’s wonderfully inventive and gripping comedy horror featuring three fearless actors, playing over 20 roles of fast-paced fun and thrilling action.

Inspired by Gothic Horror movie classics of the 1930s, with hilarious slapstick, verbal wit, and magical illusion for ages 8+. 11 Nov 7.30pm Crackington Institute.

12 Nov 2.30pm Calstock Village Hall.

Join us today to provide your child with an enriching learning experience that sets them on a path to success.

Contact us at truro@magikats.co.uk or 01637 873862 to secure your child’s spot and embark on a journey of growth with MagiKats Tuition Centre in Truro!

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Flu Season is back…….

Flu season is here again and we in the school-age immunisation team at Kernow Health, have started our busy nasal flu vaccination programme. There have been some changes this year and we will now be offering vaccinations to children from reception, through to year 11.

Some of you will already have received a letter from us, kindly sent out on our behalf by your child’s school, with a link to an online consent form.

Breastfeeding Welcome… here, there and everywhere!

Businesses in Cornwall are being encouraged to show their support for breastfeeding mums as part of a new scheme by Cornwall Council.

The Breastfeeding Welcome scheme, which is funded through the Government’s Start for Life programme, will give cafes, pubs, restaurants and other venues the chance to show that they welcome and support new mums who want to breastfeed.

Maria Harvey - Director of Integrated Community Care Services Flu has never gone away. It isn’t a simple cold. It can be a dangerous disease with serious complications, but we are ready for our annual fight-back!

If you haven’t had a letter yet, one will be heading your way over the coming weeks. This is an opt-in process which means your child will only receive the vaccine if you consent.

Don’t worry if they are absent on the day of our visit, we run community clinics as well, so you’ll have every opportunity to get your child immunised.

Vaccination in schools ensures we can reach as many eligible children as possible; we can’t do this vital work without the support of our amazing Cornish schools.

If you have any questions about this vaccination and would prefer to speak with us, or if you have internet problems (not a rarity in some of our areas) and can’t access the online consent form, please call us on 01872 221105, and we can complete it with you over the phone.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please call us. We are always very happy to help.

Businesses and organisations can show their support by displaying a special sticker in their windows. This aims to help mums feel more comfortable feeding their baby when they’re out and about.

By law women have a right to breastfeed in any public place.

The Equality Act 2010 says that it is against the law to treat a woman unfavourably because she is breastfeeding. This covers any business or organisation that provides services to the public and applies to any staff and customers of that business or organisation.

And yet, many mums feel nervous about breastfeeding in public places. This can mean they end-up staying at home when their baby is born, which can make them feel lonely and isolated. Or that they choose not to breastfeed or stop feeding before they want to.

Breastfeeding Peer Support groups and face-to-face support are also available for breastfeeding mums in Cornwall. Find a local group by scanning the QR code.

For more information on the scheme visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/breastfeedingwelcome or for more on breastfeeding and support available visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/breastfeeding

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Blackbird Reads Our Amazing World

by Deborah Wright Sunny and the Birds

by Wendy Meddour, illustrated by Nabila Adani, published by Oxford Sunny and his father have moved to a new country and his father is very homesick. Whenever Sunny shows him the wonderful birds in their new home, his father compares them sadly to the better ones back home. But Sunny and his nanna come up with a brilliant way to make his father happy again. For 3+ Tiny Tadpole

by Anne Rooney, illustrated by Qu Lan, published by Oxford One of Oxford’s Amazing Animal Tales series, told as a heartwarming story, where Mummy Frog lays eggs in soft jelly and when they hatch Tiny Tadpole races and chases with her brothers and sisters until they become tiny froglets. With pages that open up to reveal facts, this is a lovely combination of story and learning. For 4+ Who Ate All The Bugs

by Matty Long, published by Oxford A curious snail wonders who is eating all the bugs – and discovers that the food chain is a gory story, with predators eating predators eating HIM! With brightly coloured bug-eyed insects popping out on every page, this is a hilarious way to learn about nature. For 4+ When the Storks Came Home

by Isabella Tree, illustrated by Alexandra Finkeldey, published by Ivy Kids Based on the true story of the White Stork Project, Isabella Tree imagines a small girl called Beanie who tries to reintroduce wild white storks to Britain after they became extinct here hundreds of years ago. The gentle illustrations capture her excitement as the wild storks return. Printed on 100% recycled paper and printed in the UK (so fewer air-miles), this is also a planet-friendly book! For 5+ The Story of Conservation

by Catherine Barr and Steve Williams, illustrated by Amy Husband, published by Frances Lincoln Over hundreds of years, humans have abused and exploited our amazing world and this informative book tells that story, and what we can do about it. Vividly illustrated by Amy Husband, this is an excellent introduction to conservation for young children. 6+ The World That Feeds Us

by Nancy Castaldo, illustrated by Ginnie Hsu, published by Words and Pictures For older children, this book follows the seasons and explains the importance of sustainable farming and how it is carried out all over the world, from fish farms, green farming, cover crops, conserving food by making things like marmalade and using farm bots. Fascinating and educational for us all. For 8+

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Truro High School for Girls has won the ‘Most Creative Learning Through Play’ (Early Years) award in the Muddy Stilettos Best Schools Awards 2023 beating thousands of other schools from across the UK.

Head of Prep, Katie Hinks, said: ‘We are absolutely delighted to have received this national award and to have been recognised for the dynamic and happy learning environment we provide for our Pre-Prep students. We strongly believe in the importance of building firm foundations that instil a lifelong love of learning in our youngest pupils, and this award reflects the inspirational work and dedication from our Pre-Prep team who provide this every single day. I could not be more proud!’

The Muddy Stilettos Schools Awards celebrate the best in modern and progressive teaching from schools around the country. Truro High School were also Highly Commended in the category of Most Dynamic STEM Programme (Senior).