Primary Times Merseyside - Winter 2023

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WINTER ISSUE 93

13TH NOVEMBER 2023 - 28TH JANUARY 2024

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FESTIVE FUN • LOCAL NEWS • DAYS OUT • BOX OFFICE

Families at the heart of Tate Liverpool’s programme at Mann Island T ate Liverpool has opened at Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) North, Mann Island with a programme designed for families at the heart of their plans. A new reading corner, making spaces, material storage and display areas, all designed by Liverpoolbased architectural firm Studio MUTT, has created a space to make families at home.

The core family activity for Tate Liverpool at RIBA North will be inspired by the much-loved children’s book about Mildred, Tate Modern’s beloved former resident cat. Art Games: Mildred the Gallery Cat is a free activity book created especially for younger visitors to enjoy at the Tate Liverpool + RIBA North space.

The activity book includes lots of exciting games and challenges to keep little ones engaged during their visit and beyond such spot the difference, a chance to

crafting. The workshops will run from 27 December to 7 January, ensuring there’s plenty to engage little ones with during the break from school.

Alongside this, the venue will also have a shop and café run by Tate, providing a complete visitor experience. The café will serve breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, while the shop offers a range of beautiful gifts, books, homeware and more.

recreate an incredible portrait by Pablo Picasso using dot-to-dot and complete the drawings of Mildred the Cat by adding different faces. The learning space within RIBA North has also been re-deigned by Studio MUTT and will include large-scale illustrations of Mildred.

During the Christmas holidays there will be festive family workshops to create your own masterpiece, with everything visitors need to do some festive, art-inspired

The first partnership exhibition for Tate Liverpool + RIBA North will show works from the RIBA collection, one of the largest and most wide-ranging architectural collections in the world.

Open now, Long Life, Low Energy: Designing for a Circular Economy considers how the design, construction, maintenance, and demolition of buildings is vital in the journey towards global net zero targets. As Tate Liverpool undergoes a transformation to its Victorian warehouse home, this timely exhibition reveals the way architects and designers

are innovating to reuse and repurpose anything from small materials to whole buildings and how we might look to the technologies of the future to navigate the climate emergency today.

“

There’s plenty to engage little ones with during the break from school

“

Grown-ups may enjoy specially commissioned films about the six nominees for the Stirling Prize 2023. The RIBA Stirling Prize is the highest accolade in architecture and this year’s shortlisted projects feature six remarkable buildings offer thoughtful, creative responses to today’s complex challenges. Each of the videos reveals an insight into the best new buildings in the UK this year.

www.tate.org.uk

Hello Readers, It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas... and we’ve brought you a cracker-full of ways to get into the festive spirit! With the magic of Christmas around the corner, it helps make the gloomy winter days feel so much brighter! Night skies glow with twinkling lights and decorated trees, and you can wrap up warm to enjoy all the wonderful sights and sounds that this colder season brings.

In our pages you’ll find a handy rundown of festive goings-on and local attractions that have transformed into sparkling winter extravaganzas.

Whether it’s an indoor funfair, a trip to the grotto, some festive crafting or glittering shops and markets, there’s plenty going on to ensure a perfect Christmas countdown! And it wouldn’t be Christmas without a trip to an ‘oh yes it is’ panto or festive show guaranteed to make your family yuletide truly merry!

As we approach the year end, we’d also like to say a very big thank you to all schools, teachers, staff and our business partners who provide invaluable support and feedback to help us provide educational and informative content for you all to enjoy. It is very much appreciated!

Until next time, we hope you delight in all the season has to offer and wish everyone a very Merry Christmas with your families.

See you in the New Year!

INSIDE

Winter 2023

The latest news from in and around Merseyside

PUBLISHED BY Moonscape Media Ltd 0118 972 4980 office@primarytimesmag.com

Merseyside

04 FESTIVE FUN 06 10 WOW BOX OFFICE 15

IN THE NEWS Fantastic seasonal events and places to visit this winter

What’s on Where! A variety of fun family ideas taking place near you

EDITOR Michelle Dilger PRODUCTION Nathan Pretlove & Louise Fry ADVERTISING Kerry Beardsmore LISTINGS EDITOR Suzanne Watson FEATURES EDITOR Helen Chitham

A selection of theatre, arts and films in the area

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Merseyside. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Merseyside for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout the UK. Primary Times Merseyside is operated under franchise licence.

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WINTER 2023 3

LOCAL NEWS FROM MERSEYSIDE

NEWS EXPLORE MORE

BY BUS!

Explore more of your local area this festive season with Stagecoach Bus in Merseyside.

Single fares are just £2 for adults, so you will have more to spend on visiting some of the fantastic attractions around your area. It’s easy to hop on and off your local service by planning your journey on the Stagecoach Bus app. Save more, explore more, and enjoy the Christmas festivities with Stagecoach Bus in Merseyside.

Download the app for timetables, tickets and more!

THE ATKINSON - FREE, FANTASTIC FAMILY FUN ALL UNDER ONE ROOF The Atkinson in Southport offers a fun, creative and varied day out, with lots to do under one roof (and for free too!). Be inspired in the art galleries and discover an impressive variety of artworks. Plus, families can get creative; there are always activities in the ‘Art Box’ including artist-led craft sessions for children. In the Theatre, families can enjoy seasonal pantomimes, magic shows, music and dance, as well as adaptations from best-selling authors. Every seat has a great view of the stage and booster seats are available for their smaller visitors. Oh, and did we mention there is an award-winning café and a fabulous gift shop?

Families are at the heart of The Atkinson, see the full offer for all ages online: theatkinson.co.uk

GIVE YOUR CHILD THE CONFIDENCE TO SUCCEED First Class Learning specialises in providing tuition programmes aligned to the National Curriculum for students in Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 4, with a particular focus on maths, English and science. At First Class Learning Aintree, they understand the importance of nurturing not just their students’ academic skills, but also their mindset. That’s why they’re there to support you to get the perfect balance: a winning mindset for your child, and peace of mind for you as parents. Call Ellie on 07858 404828 or email aintree@ firstclasslearning.co.uk and quote Primary Times for a discount offer. Let your child be their next success story! firstclasslearning.co.uk/aintree/ 4 WINTER 2023

Quote ‘Primary Times’ for a discount offer! primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside

Festive FUN

Tis the season to be jolly… and these sparkling destinations, bursting with festive trimmings, are sure to treat and entertain the whole family in the run up to the big day!

ENCHANTING FAMILY CONCERTS AT LIVERPOOL PHILHARMONIC

This Christmas the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra whisk us away into the enchanting world of The Snowman, accompanying a screening of the film live on stage, before Santa himself drops by to deliver a sparkling selection of festive, musical treats (16th & 17th December, 11.30am & 2.30pm*). In 2024, join the Orchestra for a musical adventure to discover some of the animals of our wonderful world! They’ll dive into the deepest oceans and climb high into the rainforest canopy to encounter some of the amazing creatures that call our beautiful planet home (9th March, 2.30pm). *The 2.30pm performance on 17th December will be BSL interpreted.

T: 0151 7093789 W: www.liverpoolphil.com

LIGHT UP YOUR CHRISTMAS WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS AT LIVERPOOL ONE

It’s Christmas, so it has to be Liverpool ONE, as they bring stunning decorations, selfie-spots, choirs, events and lots of festive cheer to the streets of Liverpool. Admire the glowing Christmas lights while you shop or dine at some the best brands in the Northwest, including the exciting new Gravity MAX, and the return of Bar Hütte under the Christmas Tree on Chavasse Park. Santa returns to John Lewis & Partners with their fabulous grotto experience, and if you’re looking for inspiration for that Christmas list, kids will love shopping at Waterstones, LEGO and Kenji.

W: www.liverpool-one.com

BOXING DAY EXCITEMENT FOR FAMILIES AT AINTREE

As the holiday season approaches, Aintree is thrilled to bring you gift wrapped excitement with their first Boxing Day Fixture on 26th December! This year, they invite you to join them for an unforgettable day of horse racing, entertainment, and festive cheer. Prepare for a day of heart-pounding action as some of the finest horses, jockeys, and trainers take to the Aintree track at the home of the Randox Grand National Festival. Aintree’s Boxing Day Fixture is a perfect opportunity for families to come together and create lasting memories. With free general admission for children, there’s something for everyone!

W: www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/aintree

BEWILDERWOOD PRESENTS A SPARKLING, COLOURFUL CHRISTMAS

A Sparkly Light & Panto comes back to BeWILDerwood and tickets are now on sale. Having been awarded the Best New Event at the 2023 UK Theme Park Awards, it’s expected to be a sellout - with tickets only £15.50 per person! Visitors will venture along a Sparkly Light Trail, spotting Christmas crackers, a giant Christmas pudding, silly snowmen plus lots, lots more! Head over to the Storytelling Stage to catch a mini BeWILDermas Pantomime, full of festive cheer and fun for the whole family. We recommend booking your tickets soon to avoid disappointment, head online to get yours!

W: bewilderwood.co.uk 6 WINTER 2023

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Festive FUN

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WINTER 2023 7

Festive FUN

LIVERPOOL INDOOR FUNFAIR RETURNS FOR FESTIVE FUN AND EXCITEMENT!

Liverpool Indoor Funfair returns to Exhibition Centre from Saturday 23rd December-Sunday 7th January bringing excitement for all the family! Suitable for children of all ages, each riding wristband grants unlimited access to every ride during your three-hour slot - perfect for burning energy and keeping children entertained no matter the weather outside!

Loved by children, teens and parents, Liverpool Indoor Funfair offers all the fun of the fair in an indoor, climate-controlled and family-friendly environment! With jaw-dropping rides, amazing inflatables, sweet stalls and game stalls, there is something to keep everyone entertained.

Riding wristbands from 10am-1pm and 2-5pm can be purchased online for £12.99. Wristbands for sessions from 6-9pm can be purchased for £9.99. To find out more information, and to book your tickets, please head to the website.

W: indoorfunfair.org/tickets/liverpool

ALADDIN IS SET TO ENCHANT ST HELENS THEATRE ROYAL THIS CHRISTMAS

Aladdin is flying into St Helens Theatre Royal this Christmas!

Emmerdale star Liam Fox will make his panto debut in the role of the evil Abanazer, and panto royalty Leanne Campbell will appear as a magical ‘Genie of the Mirror’. The spectacular seasonal production from Regal Entertainments comes to the Theatre Royal stage from Saturday 2nd December to Sunday 14th January and tickets are on sale now. Take a magic carpet ride this Christmas and be whisked off to pantoland where young street urchin Aladdin lives with his hapless brother Wishee Washee and larger-than-life mum Widow Twankey in their family laundry.

Then join the young hero as he battles the wicked Abanazer who has a dastardly plan to rule the world with the help of one very special lamp. Can Aladdin save the day - and can he also win the heart of the fair Princess Jasmine?

W: www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com

8 WINTER 2023

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Festive FUN

SANTA AND FRIENDS WELCOME YOU TO THEIR SPECIAL CHRISTMAS GROTTO AT WAYFARERS ARCADE

Wayfarers Arcade in Southport is changing its grotto and little visitors this year will be in for a special treat when they are welcomed by professional actors dressed up as festive characters! No need to book, just turn up between 11am-4pm on these dates, 2/3/9/10/16/17/21/22/23/24 in December, to see Santa and receive a quality gift (£10 per child). And the fun doesn’t stop there! Get immersed in free, lively pantomime shows on Sunday 3rd,10th and 17th December - let kids join in and be festively entertained!

And for the adults needing a break, browse their gorgeously decorated and stock-filled shops and enjoy essential, delicious refreshments with a café stop or two!

W: www.wayfarersarcade.co.uk

ENJOY FESTIVE FAMILY WORKSHOPS AT TATE LIVERPOOL THIS CHRISTMAS

Tate Liverpool is now open at Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) North, Mann Island with a programme designed for families at the heart of their plans. A new reading corner, making spaces, material storage and display areas, all designed by Liverpool-based architectural firm Studio MUTT, will create a space to make families at home.

During the Christmas holidays there will be festive family workshops to create your own masterpiece, with everything visitors need to do some festive, art-inspired crafting. The workshops will run from 27th December to 7th January, ensuring there’s plenty to engage little ones with during the break from school! Alongside this, the venue also has a shop and café run by Tate, providing a complete visitor experience. The café will serve breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, while the shop offers a range of beautiful gifts, books, homeware and more.

W: www.tate.org.uk

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WINTER 2023 9

find lots more fun at www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside

HINGS TO DO LOCALLY T N FU

WOW ON WHERE WHAT’S

in Merseyside

Sunday 19th November

Friday 24th November

Elf Dash

Yuletide - A Glittering Winter Adventure

Gulliver’s Theme Park, Warrington www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk Start the Christmas season in style and support a fantastic charity along the way. Tickets include a place on the Elf Dash, theme park entry and a grotto visit to meet Father Christmas (both valid for the same day as the Elf Dash).

Tuesday 21st November

Ongoing

Friday 17th November

Explore More by Bus

Liverpool ONE Christmas Live

Stagecoach Buses Merseyside Explore more of your local area this festive season with Stagecoach Bus in Merseyside. Single fares are £2 for adults. It’s easy to hop on and off your local service by planning your journey on the Stagecoach Bus app. Download the app for timetables, tickets and more!

The Atkinson Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk Be inspired in the art galleries and discover an impressive variety of artworks. Families can get creative too, there are always activities in the ‘Art Box’ including artist led craft sessions for children. In the Theatre, families can enjoy seasonal pantomimes, magic shows, music and dance, as well as adaptations from best-selling authors.

Liverpool One www.liverpool-one.com/christmas Christmas festivities start in Liverpool today. Expect aerial performances, singing elves, local talent and magical pop-up pantomimes taking over Liverpool ONE.

Land of Lights Gulliver’s Theme Park, Warrington www.warrington.landoflights.co.uk See Gulliver’s World Resort in a whole new light! Land of Lights Warrington will be lighting up the Cheshire sky, discover gigantic lanterns, mesmerizing light installations and festival vibes. Running until 25th February.

Festive Sensory Mornings at Bar Hütte Chavasse Park www.liverpool-one.com/bar-hutte Festive sensory mornings at Bar Hütte are new for 2023, taking place on selected Mondays from 10.30-11.15am. £9 per child.

Santa Claus Club at Bar Hütte Chavasse Park www.liverpool-one.com/bar-hutte Enjoy an hour of karaoke magic in a Hütte, a hot chocolate and colouring pads for the kids. Plus, there’ll be an opportunity to grab a selfie with a very special guest - Santa Claus himself will be stopping by! £25 for one hour, for a minimum of two people, maximum of six. Various dates until 24th December.

10 WINTER 2023

Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk Dare to venture down the rabbit hole and find yourself in the magical world of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland!

Running on selected dates until 31st December. Adults £14, Children £10, under 2’s free.

Wednesday 22nd November Story & Rhyme Time The Atkinson, Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk Explore stories through rhyme and help develop your child’s language and communication skills while meeting other parents and carers. Together with friendly librarians, babies and underfives will enjoy learning new songs, dancing, and making friends. Every Wednesday at 11.30am.

Thursday 23rd November

Bar Hütte Chavasse Park www.liverpool-one.com/bar-hutte Christmas at Liverpool ONE means karaoke, apres-ski-inspired fun and family friendly events as Bar Hütte returns to Chavasse Park this year. There is also a pup-sized hütte to be enjoyed with complimentary dog treats and plenty of photo props to get the whole gang in the festive spirit. No booking needed, simply show up to the doggy grotto and get snap happy! Running until 31st December.

Wonderland in the Mansion

Santa’s Grotto at John Lewis

Saturday 18th November Christmas Arts & Crafts Market The Atkinson, Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk Talented artisans from across Sefton offer one-of-a-kind creations. Discover a selection of unique, handcrafted treasures that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Free, drop in event.

10am-4pm.

Liverpool ONE www.johnlewis.com/our-services/ santas-grotto Work your way through the interactive grotto (with the help of Santa’s mischievous little helpers). Complete your mission and you’ll meet Santa, have your photo taken and receive a very special gift. £20 per child (includes a plush toy worth £10) plus a £2 booking fee. £2 per adult plus a 20p booking fee. Professional photos available to purchase separately. Running until 24th December.

Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk Step into a new glittering adventure!

Roast marshmallows around the campfire, while listening to enchanted stories told of festive folklore. Enjoy live music and fire juggling antics before embarking on The Glittering Trail where you’ll discover interactive puppets and intrigue around every corner. Running on selected dates until 23rd December.

Saturday 25th November Meet Father Christmas at the Farm Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk Find Father Christmas and his elf helpers in a festive grotto. Enjoy roaming entertainers, festive choirs, brass bands, christmas craft and delicious treats in the Christmas Cafe. Running on selected dates until 24th December.

Enchanted Magical Forest GreenWood Forest Park www.greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk Wander through the illuminated forest, tick off your festive trail, enjoys arts and crafts, and indulge in some warm drinks. You can also add on a tick to meet Santa himself in his cosi tipi!

Running until 23rd December.

Sunday 26th November Splatter and Stick Museum of Liverpool www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk An inclusive environment with the aim to develop a child’s self-confidence, natural exploration skills, hand eye coordination and manual dexterity in a fun and creative environment, through the exploration of arts and crafts.

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

Festive Craft Workshop The Atkinson, Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk Be inspired by the museum, gallery and theatre programme in an arts and crafts workshop suitable for all the family.

Drop-in any time between 11am-3pm and get creative. Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult.

Yuletide - A Glittering Winter Adventure Tatton Park primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside

find lots more fun at www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside

Thursday 30th November

Sparkly Light and Panto Trail

Saturday 16th December

Luminate Light Trail

BeWILDerwood, Cheshire www.bewilderwood.co.uk Visitors will venture along a Sparkly Light Trail, spotting Christmas crackers, a giant Christmas pudding, silly snowmen plus lots, lots more! Head over to the Storytelling Stage to catch a mini BeWILDermas Pantomime full of festive cheer and fun for the whole family.

Running until 23rd December.

Runcorn Community Choir Concert

Walton Gardens, Cheshire www.luminate.live As darkness descends this December, go on an enchanting journey, as you weave a captivating mile-long light trail through the stunning grounds of Walton Gardens in Cheshire. Immerse yourself in our interactive festive wonderland by making magical memories, the events can be enjoyed by all, they offer sensory slots and accessible trails. Running until 24th December.

Christmas Artisan Gift Fair Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk Great ideas for presents that you won’t find in your typical high street shops!

Running until 3rd December.

Friday 1st December Advent Calendar Giveaway Liverpool ONE www.liverpool-one.com/Christmas You could win an amazing prize every day from 1st-12th December! It is worth at least £250, from one of the fantastic brands.

Fun Christmas Grotto Wayfarers Arcade, Southport www.wayfarersarcade.co.uk Wayfarers Arcade grotto is changing and little visitors this year will be in for a special, fun time when they are welcomed by professional actors as festive characters. No need to book, just turn up. Open on 2/3/9/10/16/17/21/22/23/24 December 11am-4pm. Xmas Eve finishes at 2pm.

Santa and quality gift £10 per child.

And for even more fun there are free pantomime shows on Sunday 3rd, 10th and 17th December for kids to join in and enjoy.

Monday 3rd December Free Pantomime Shows Wayfarers Arcade, Southport www.wayfarersarcade.co.uk There are free pantomime shows running at Wayfarers Arcade on Sunday 3rd, 10th and 17th December for kids to join in and enjoy!

Tuesday 12th December

Saturday 2nd December

After School Club at Bar Hütte

A very Curious Christmas

Liverpool ONE www.liverpool-one.com/bar-hutte Join Bar Hütte for the Festive After School Club, a delightful treat for the young ones that will run Tuesdays during term time. Includes a hot chocolate, colouring pads and karaoke. £20 for an hour in a Hütte, 3.30pm or 4pm.

Eureka! Science + Discovery eureka.org.uk Festive activities running until 7th January.

Check online for more information.

Christmas Craft Printmaking Walker Art Gallery www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk A fun and festive family workshop to design and hand print your own Christmas cards and tissue paper gift wrap to take home.

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

Sparkly Light and Panto Trail BeWILDerwood Cheshire

Norton Priory www.nortonpriory.org A carol concert to celebrate the season through a range of well-known Christmas carols and festive favourites. A free glass of mulled wine or orange juice is included at the event. Adults £7, children £5.

Sunday 17th December Christmas Carols in the Stableyard Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk Meet up with friends and family, pick up your song sheet and join the sing-along to Christmas carols and songs with the King Edward Musical Society Band and choir in the twinkling Stableyard.

Tuesday 26th December Boxing Day Fixture Aintree www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/aintree Prepare for a day of heart-pounding action as some of the finest horses, jockeys and trainers take to the Aintree track at the home of the Randox Grand National Festival. Aintree’s Boxing Day Fixture is a perfect opportunity for families to come together and create lasting memories!

And with free general admission for children, there’s something for everyone.

Monday 18th December Twilight in the Winter Forest Grosvenor Museum, Chester www.westcheshiremuseums.co.uk Wander through a peaceful indoor forest and discover activities for mini-explorers amongst the trees, plus wintery things from the museum’s collections. Runs until 21st January.

Friday 22nd December The Snowman Featuring Wallace and Gromit Liverpool Cathedral www.carrotproductions.com Make it a Christmas to remember with a very special performance featuring two of the UK’s best-loved and iconic animated films, The Snowman and Wallace & Gromit: The Wrong Trousers, with live orchestral accompaniment. After the performance, meet the musicians, see their instruments and admire their amazing costumes.

Saturday 23rd December Liverpool Indoor Funfair Exhibition Centre www.indoorfunfair.org/tickets/liverpool Suitable for children of all ages, each riding wristband grants unlimited access to every ride during your three-hour slot - perfect for burning energy and keeping children entertained no matter the weather outside! Running until 7th Jan (closed Christmas Day). On Sunday 24th Dec there is a quieter session for children that struggle with sensory overload.

‍Sunday 24th December Santa Send-Off Gulliver’s Theme Park, Warrington www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk Enjoy festive rides and attractions and wave a final farewell to Santa before he sets off on his journey to deliver everyone’s presents. The rides and attractions will be open from 10.30am until 2pm.

12 WINTER 2023

Merry Christmas!

Wednesday 27th December Festive Family Workshops Tate Liverpool www.tate.org.uk Tate Liverpool is now open at Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) North, Mann Island. During the Christmas holidays there will be festive family workshops to create your own masterpiece, with everything visitors need to do some festive, art-inspired crafting. The workshops will run from 27th December to 7th January, ensuring there’s plenty to engage little ones with during the break from school! The venue also has a shop and café, providing a complete visitor experience.

Sunday 31st December New Year Celebrations Gulliver’s Theme Park, Warrington www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk Join the New Year’s Eve adventure at Gulliver’s World Warrington. Discover activities, entertainment and magical shows from 5.30-10pm. This alternative New Year celebration is designed for adventurous, fun-loving families!

Monday 1st January Liverpool Indoor Funfair Exhibition Centre www.indoorfunfair.org/tickets/liverpool Happy New Year! There is still a week left to visit this fun filled venue! Suitable for children of all ages. Running until 7th January.

Explore More by Bus in 2024 Stagecoach Buses Merseyside Explore more of your local area this festive season with Stagecoach Bus in Merseyside. Download the app for timetables, tickets and more! primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside

find lots more fun at www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside

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WINTER 2023 13

BOX OFFICE All the very best theatre, arts and films near you, there’s loads more on www.primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside Albert Halls Bolton www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk

Friday 1st-Sunday 31st December CINDERELLA

This year’s festive extravaganza Cinderella features a West End and Celebrity cast, spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, fantastic singing, amazing dancing, a large dose of comedy, and a magical flying coach to take Cinderella to the ball!

AO Arena Ao-arena.com

Sunday 3rd December HOME ALONE IN CONCERT

A true Christmas favourite, this beloved comedy classic features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live by The Heritage Orchestra to the film shown on a giant HD screen.

Wednesday 13th-Sunday 17th December DISNEY ON ICE - 100 YEARS OF WONDER

Celebrate with Mickey, Minnie, and their Disney friends while reliving the adventures of your favourite Disney stories at Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder.

The Atkinson Southport www.theatkinson.co.uk

Friday 17th November THERE’S A MONSTER IN YOUR SHOW

Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved ‘Who’s in Your Book?’ series makes its debut as a brandnew musical show.

Saturday 25th November SANTA’S CHRISTMAS WISH

Join a fun, festive, musical adventure to give Santa the very best Christmas, then meet him at his home in the North Pole! There every child will receive a special present from Father Christmas in this popular meet, greet and treat, after the most Christmassy Christmas show ever!

Thursday 7th-Sunday 31st December JACK AND THE BEANSTALK CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME

Join hero Jack Trott as he embarks on an extraordinary journey up the beanstalk to an enchanted land above the clouds.

With hilarious antics, loveable characters, and a handful of magic beans, this traditional family panto will captivate audiences of all ages.

SAY YTOU SAW I IN Liverpool Empire www.atgtickets.com

Tuesday 28th November THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL IN CONCERT The film with live orchestra.

Wednesday 13th DecemberSunday 7th January WIZARD OF OZ Starring JLS sensation Aston Merrygold as The Tin Man and RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner and Dancing on Ice star The Vivienne as The Wicked Witch of the West.

Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse

The Sooty Show St Helens Theatre Royal

primarytimes.co.uk/merseyside

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic The Muppet Christmas Carol

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

M and S Bank Arena www.mandsbankarena.com

Saturday 2nd-Sunday 3rd December PETER PAN

A big budget extravaganza adaptation of J.M Barrie’s much-loved tale Peter Pan flies into Liverpool this December, promising a spectacular spin on the timeless classic adventure. Fabulous animated digital sets redefine the genre with an immersive experience of magic and wonderment that even the most cynical audiences will be blown away by. Karma Chameleon Boy George Debuts as Captain Hook.

Saturday 16th-Saturday 30th December SLEEPING BEAUTY

This Christmas, you’re invited to the pantomime of your dreams.

Starring Reality TV Star & Model Katie Price as Carabosse, Comedy Star Bippo as The Castle Clown, Britain’s Got Talent Finalist Lucy Kay as The Fairy and The Hilarious Andy Brennan as Queen FiFi of Fazakerley.

Parr Hall Warrington

www.everymanplayhouse.com

parrhall.culturewarrington.org

Friday 17th NovemberSaturday 20th January THE ROCK ‘N’ROLL PANTO CINDERELLA

Friday 5th-Sunday 14th January JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

The iconic Everyman Rock ‘n’ Roll panto is back, and this year they’re telling the story of Cinderella.

The perfect way to cheer up a dreary January, this pantomime promises lots of laughs, sparkle and plenty of music and dancing.

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hope Street, Liverpool www.liverpoolphil.com

Saturday 16th-Sunday 17th December THE SNOWMAN

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra will whisk you away into the enchanting world of The Snowman, accompanying a screening of the film live on stage, before Santa himself drops by to deliver a sparkling selection of festive, musical treats.

Sunday 24th December THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL You’ll be dreaming of a green Christmas, joining Kermit and friends for The Muppet Christmas Carol, a family classic.

Saturday 30th December HARRY POTTER AND THE PHILOSOPHER’S STONE IN CONCERT

Relive the film on the big screen as the Orchestra perform its bewitching score.

St Helens Theatre Royal www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com

Saturday 2nd DecemberSunday 14th January ALADDIN

Join hero Aladdin as he battles the evil Abanazer and his dastardly plan to rule the world with the help of one very special lamp. Can Aladdin save the day and win the heart of the fair Princess Jasmine?

Sunday 3rd February THE SOOTY SHOW

Celebrating 75 amazing years in show business, Sooty, Sweep and Soo are planning a very special birthday party and you’re all invited. However, in true Sooty style nothing goes to plan!

WINTER 2023 15