Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through Infant and Junior Schools throughout Hereford & Worcester. It is also available by subscription at £50 per year. Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. It is not our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2,672,883 copies per issue throughout the counties of: Avon, Bedfordshire & Luton, Berkshire, Birmingham & Black Country, Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes, Cambridgeshire, Cardiff & The Vale, South West Wales, Newport & Monmouthshire, Cheshire & The Wirral, Cornwall, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Devon, Dorset, Edinburgh & The Lothians, Fife, Tayside & Central Scotland, Glasgow & West of Scotland, Essex (North & Mid, South & West), Gloucestershire, Greater Manchester, Hampshire, Hereford & Worcester, Hertfordshire, Ireland (Dublin, Leinster, South and West), Kent (East, North & West), Lancashire, Leicestershire & Rutland, Lincolnshire, London (East, North, South East, South West, South, West), Merseyside, Newcastle, Gateshead and Northumberland, Newport & Monmouthshire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Plymouth, Somerset, Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent, Sunderland & Durham, Surrey, Sussex (East & West), Tees Valley, Warwickshire and Solihull, Wiltshire, Yorkshire (North & East, South and West). For further details contact The Primary Times Team on 01905 723011
King’s St Alban’s Prep School excels at celebrating individuality and is a place where kindness rules. Set in an idyllic location on the bank of the River Severn in the shadow of Worcester Cathedral, King’s St Alban’s, offers and outstanding education to children from 2 to 11 years old.
King’s St Alban’s Pre-Prep opens up a world of opportunity to children as they embark on their educational journey. Situated adjacent to the Prep School, the Pre-Preparatory Department combines bright, airy classrooms and a stunning multi-purpose hall with a vibrant, outdoor garden and well-stocked library. Small classes, which each have both a Form Teacher and Teaching Assistant, ensure that each child is nurtured and encouraged to work to the best of their ability whilst having fun and learning creatively.
At King’s St Alban’s Pre-Prep staff recognise that children who feel confident in themselves and in their own ability have a head start in learning. All of the children are treated as individuals and are encouraged to explore their gifts and strengths in order to achieve their full potential. What children can do, rather than what they cannot, is the starting point in their learning, and planning is flexible so that children’s individual needs and interests can be followed.
In the Prep School, children in Years 3 to 6 enjoy a stimulating and balanced curriculum; at its heart is the fact that children want to learn and the school wants to feed their natural interest and curiosity. Visitors often comment on the ‘quiet, purposeful atmosphere’ in our classrooms and King’s St Alban’s works hard to ensure all children thrive in their learning.
Specialist teachers in science, music, art, DT, French and games lessons ensure children can be inspired by teachers who are passionate about their subject. Form Teachers see the children for most lessons and this relationship, of nurture, care and support, is paramount to each child’s progress. Whilst, our focus on Growth Mindset enables us to model and consider skills such as resilience, curiosity, and reflectiveness.
Making the most of the facilities here at King’s St Alban’s and at King’s Worcester, the senior school pupils not only receive the very best education possible but also develop a real love of learning.
To find out what makes King’s St Alban’s so unique, join them at one of their forthcoming Open Events: www.ksw.org.uk/meetkingsstalbans
Waterworks Museum, Hereford Broomy Hill, Hereford, Herefordshire, HR4 0LJ. Whatever the weather, we have something to offer all visitors including family groups with children. The Waterworks Museum traces the history of drinking water from the cave-dwellers up to the present day through wonderful working engines, superb display panels, guidebooks and films and the knowledge shared by the Museum’s volunteers. Classified by English Heritage as “a site of clear national importance”, the Museum is home to the oldest working triple-expansion steam engine in the UK and probably has the widest range of working pumps and engines. Tea, coffee, soft drinks and snacks are available from the cafe. Dogs may be admitted to the Museum grounds on a leash, but for the safety of other visitors this is always at the discretion of Museum staff. Dogs are not permitted in the Museum buildings or the Noel Meeke Heritage Water Park (with the exception of Assistance Dogs). £5
Let the festive magic begin! It’s the most wonderful time of the year and Santa is coming to the Severn Valley Railway – plus, mischievous elves Jingle and Jangle are joining him for more festive fun! Meet a pair of Christmas characters at our beautifully decorated station at Kidderminster, then travel by vintage steam train in reserved seats to Arley and see your favourite characters in an all-new pantomime. After being entertained by Jingle, Jangle and friends, you’ll re-board the train where a present for each child awaits. Suitable for all ages. Your ticket includes: Steam train ride in your reserved compartment / table from Kidderminster to Arley and return Access to our all-new pantomime, featuring
character. Sweet treat for all passengers Travel mug and hot drink for adults Cold drink for children Premium gift for every child Festive activity book for all children. www.svr.co.uk
VISIT SANTA AT OAKCHURCH
Children of all ages and their families are invited to visit Santa in his grotto in the run up to Christmas at Oakchurch Farm Shop, Staunton-on-Wye. With the help of his friends from Hereford Lions Club Santa will be arriving at Oakchurch Farm Shop on Saturday 19 November and will be in residence there every weekend between 11am and 4pm and every afternoon during the week before Christmas, right up to Friday 23 December. There’s no charge to visit Santa but visitors are welcome to make a small donation which will go to local charities supported by the Hereford Lions Club. Appointments to see Santa can be booked on the Oakchurch website at www.oakchurch.net. You will be asked to make a refundable £5 payment per family to guarantee your time slot. Pre-booking is essential. Oakchurch Farm Shop is at Staunton-on-Wye, just 10 minutes from Hereford on the A438 Brecon Road, open 7 days a week with lots of free parking for cars, sleighs and reindeer.
THE GRINCH LIVE SHOW & SANTA’S GROTTO
Enchanted Kingdom, First Floor, Maylord Shopping Centre, Hereford, HR1 2DT. After 4 years… THE GRINCH IS BACK! Step into the Enchanted Kingdom this Christmas for what is set to be our biggest and baddest experience yet. Join The Grinch, Cindy Lou Who and Max The Dog - on an all singing, all shouting (at anyone that
enjoys Christmas) adventure. If you enjoy fun, frolics and a spot of verbal abuse from everybody’s favourite meany… Then this is the experience for you. After the show you will have the chance to meet the characters, before heading through one family at a time for that all important magical moment with Santa Claus. All children will receive a special gift. THIS EVENT WILL BE A SELL OUT - All 4000 tickets were sold out by the end of October last year and with this being our final farewell at the Enchanted Kingdom we really advise booking early to avoid disappointment. www. enchantedkingdomhereford.co.uk
IT’S CHRISTMAAAS!
musicians on our stages and buskers on every street corner. There really is something for everyone and we hope you have a wonderful time! Come along and see all the fun festivities for yourself, support local businesses and take part in one of the highlights of the Midlands’ festive calendar.
This Christmas, we’re turning back the clock for a nostalgic trip to the late twentieth century, inspired by rumours of wild and vivacious house parties at the Hall in the 70s and 80s. Get a blast from the past as you explore the house dressed for the Christmas we all remember: a riot of colour, with bright lights, baubles and tinsel galore! And whilst you’re here why not have a reminisce over your favourite toys from the era or dander around listening to all the Christmas number ones? You never know, you might spot Father Christmas having a snooze in front of the television! Admission prices apply to this event, free for National Trust members.
FAMILY NATIVITY TRAIL
Hereford Cathedral, Hereford HR1 2NG. Pick up a free leaflet from the Welcome Desk at Hereford Cathedral, as you arrive and follow the trail around the cathedral to find the different parts of the nativity story. Answer the questions as you go around, take the highlighted letters from your answers and you will be able make a festive word at the end of the trail! Once you’ve found the answer, take your sheet to the Cathedral Shop or Welcome Desk to claim your sticker!
The Victorian Fayre was first started back in 1992 by traders from picturesque New Street and Friar Street. The Fayre may have grown a lot but it has stayed true to its traditional roots with plenty of Victorian themed characters, festive treats and a wonderful atmosphere. This year there will be almost 200 stalls across the city centre, selling local arts and crafts, delicious street food and gifts. As well as a wonderful array of stalls, we are looking forward to a fantastic programme of entertainment. Look out for Victorian characters in Gin Lane, lofty entertainers on stilts, brilliant
Museum of Royal Worcester, Severn St, Worcester WR1 2ND. Bring the kids or come along with friends and enjoy creative festive fun in the Paint-Your-Own-Pottery Studio. Choose from a festive range of bisque, such as baubles and decorations, money boxes, mince pie plates, mugs, bird boxes, and picture frames, to make personalised gifts. We are open every week Thursday to Sunday and over Christmas and New Year. Discover our festive opening times and book at www. museumofroyalworcester.org
Join us from 4pm-7pm for an evening of late night shopping with a warm glow of Christmas spirit.The community of Malvern Link warmly invites you to celebrate Christmas in the Link, an evening of carols singing, Santa’s Grotto, festive stalls, late night shopping with local independent businesses, children’s craft activities, charity tombola and a Christmas tree light switch on.Local choirs and groups with be spreading festive joy and all are welcome to sing along!The United Reformed Church Hall will offer facilities and host various activities to keep you entertained, so please pop in and say hello! Malvern Link, your local independent shopping and service hub, we are here all year round…not just for Christmas!
Forge Mill Needle Museum. £5 a child to include a gift from Father Christmas. Have a go at a Christmas craft, complete our Christmas trail around the site and visit Father Christmas in his grotto. www.forgemill.org.uk
Elmslie House, WR14 3AG. An exhibition and sale of jewellery, textiles, ceramics, glass and metalwork created by twenty local designermakers. Opening times Friday: 4pm – 7pm, Saturday: 10am – 5pm. Sunday: 10am – 4pm
St Peter’s Church Church Lane Bromyard HR7 4DZ. A fantastic display of Christmas Trees creatively decorated by local businesses and community groups in the beautiful surroundings of St Peter’s Church in
Bromyard. If you would like to sponsor a Christmas tree to be part of a display in the aisles of St Peter’s during a weekend of colour, music, mulled wine and more! The trees, available in two sizes (2-3ft and 4-5ft), can be adorned with your chosen themed decorations. There are prizes for the best decorated trees. Once the Festival is over you can choose to keep your tree or allow it to be sold to raise further funds for the causes. 3.30pm -6pm. Children £9.50, Adults £2.00
CHARITY
Regal Tenbury Trust49 Teme StreetTenbury Wells, WR15. Tenbury Town band presents its annual Christmas concert where we give the proceeds to charity. Come along and get your Christmas season off to the very best start with a fabulous mix of Christmas music with a few additional acts to entertain you. 7pm-9:45pm.
Come along for the traditional crowning of the Mistletoe Queen, stalls, music, Mistletoe ceremony, workshops and more. Don’t miss this free family day out. 10am. FREE. www.tenburymistletoe.org
Colwall Mistletoe Fair will be outside Colwall Provisions (Walwyn Road) all morning with our mulled apple juice, cakes and mince pies offering: mistletoe in decorated bunches and balls; wreaths, holly and fir cones; all manners of jams, jellies and chutneys (and some honey); Colwall Apple juice and preserves; lip balms and gardener’s hand balm; fruit leather and dried apple rings; various handmade crafts (robins, snowflakes, lavender bottles etc). Do come and stock up with presents for your friends and relatives. Another opportunity to buy preserves and juice and other orchard related cards and books.
Kingtons annual food and drink festival features the very best of what the borders has to offer, With this annual festival hitting its 15th year we can now boast over 100 stalls hand picked to give the best variety of producers from charcuterie to patisserie to fresh meat including lamb, pork and goat to chocolate, to oil’s and then find the perfect kitchen wear to cook it in. This years festival is spread over 5 different venues from the market hall and coach house to the kington centre at the opposite end of the high street and this year we are lucky enough for one of the venues will be sponsored by the
now famous White Heron cassis based just a few miles up the road with their pop up cocktail bar certainly one to visit to keep those December chills away. With a fabulous festive feel and atmosphere, great music and vibe, this winter foodie delight is spread over five venues. For more information contact kingtonfoodfest@gmail.com or telephone 01544 231202
Christmas Exhibition at 2 Stable Cottages in Bromsberrow, Ledbury HR8 1RT. Jewellery, Paintings, Mosaics, Textiles, Sculptures, Papier Mache, Miniature Teddy Bears. Work by Helen Crawford, Anita Davies, MissFire, Ardyn Griffin, Victoria Harrison, Janis Waldron. 11am-4pm Refreshments available
Barton Court, Colwall Herefordshire WR13 6HN. Father Christmas will be staying in The Clock Tower at Barton Court this December, and would like to meet as many children as possible. Meeting Father Christmas is by appointment only (he’s a busy man). You and your child will get a private audience with Father Christmas in the sitting room and the chance to meet him up close. The Clock Tower is very small so a maximum of 4 – 2 adults and 2 children – can go in at the same time. Each child MUST be accompanied by an adult. The cost of meeting Santa is £10 for 1 child and includes a photo opportunity, a small gift chosen at random from his sack and a satsuma. £10.00 for 1 child, £17.50 for 2 children
St Michael’s Hospice, Bartestree, Hereford HR1 4HA. Visit Santa’s Grotto at St Michaels Hospice, the journey starts in the Christmas Café where children can collect a fun quiz sheet before families descend the twisted slope down to the grounds below and get their first glance of the Winter Lights. The fairy-lit path takes families to the Naughty Elf Garden, Sleigh store, Reindeer stables – complete with singing reindeer, and Gingerbread village. As you pass through the light tunnel you’ll meet the elves, who will exchange quiz sheets for gold coins. The elves will escort you to the Grotto where Santa will be waiting to meet you and hear your Christmas wish list! The entire family are welcome to say hello and a photographer will be taking professional pictures that are available for you to view on the St Michael’s Hospice Facebook page. After you meet Santa you’ll enter the toy
store where each child will be able to choose from a vast array of gifts; there really is something for everyone. Slots are limited! Book early to avoid disappointment.
Hereford Cathedral, Hereford HR1 2NG. Begin the Christmas season with the return of Christmas Sparkle at Hereford Cathedral, an organ concert performed by Peter Dyke, featuring all the festive favourites on Saturday 3 December. Admission is free, with a retiring collection. All proceeds from donations will aid Hereford Cathedral Perpetual Trust and the maintenance of the Father Willis Organ. Please book online via the website or contact events@ herefordcathedral.org 01432 374251
Accessibility Information: If you require details on accessibility, please contact events@herefordcathedral.org
Hereford Cathedral, Hereford HR1 2NG. In partnership with Hereford Diocese, Hereford Cathedral will be holding three family lantern making workshops in preparation for the Diocesan Year of Prayer launch, which takes place in January. Using willow and paper mache you will construct and decorate lanterns to be used in the Festival of Light service which takes place on Saturday 7 January 2023 at 4.30pm at the cathedral. Children must be accompanied at all times.
Museum of Royal Worcester, Severn St, Worcester WR1 2ND. Bring the kids or come along with friends and enjoy creative festive fun in the Paint-Your-Own-Pottery Studio. Choose from a festive range of bisque, such as baubles and decorations, money boxes, mince pie plates, mugs, bird boxes, and picture frames, to make personalised gifts. We are open every week Thursday to Sunday and over Christmas and New Year. Discover our festive opening times and book at www.museumofroyalworcester.org
Forge Mill Needle Museum. £5 a child to include a gift from Father Christmas. Have a go at a Christmas craft, complete our Christmas trail around the site and visit Father Christmas in his grotto. www.forgemill.org.uk
WYO & WYSO WINTER CONCERT
St Martin’s Church, London Road, Worcester, WR5 2ED. Concert by Worcestershire Youth Orchestra and Worcestershire Youth String Orchestra, showcasing a variety of music performed by our talented Severn Arts young musicians. Tickets will also be available on the door: Adults - £5.00, students, over 65 years, unemployed – free 5:00pm – 7pm We want as many Worcestershire children as possible to benefit from taking part in musical activity. This is why we are building a music fund for families who can’t afford the full cost of music lessons and instrument hire. Donations
made when completing your booking will be added to our music awards fund.
LABELS FESTIVE FAMILY FUN DAY
Labels Shopping, J4 M50, Ross on Wye. Making December one to remember with a day full of fun for all the family, the last of Labels events for 2022 in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance. Christmas Market, Breakfast with Maac & Film* Gift Wrapping Service in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance Wreath Decorating* – book in-store FREE Kids Craft Letters to Santa Jessica Rose Photography*
VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS MARKET
Leominster Tourist Information Centre, 11 Corn Square, Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 8YP. Step back in time and join us for a truly Dickensian adventure at the Leominster Victorian Christmas Market on 10 December 2022, 10am-4pm. Corn Square, Broad Street and the town centre will be filled with stalls selling handmade and locally produced gifts, food and drink for your loved ones. Enjoy street food, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts or why not go for a horse and carriage ride around the town. Let yourselves be entertained by Punch and Judy, Morris dancers, live seasonal music, fairground organs, the sound of traction engines and don’t be surprised if you spot real Victorians in the streets and alleyways.
CATHEDRAL ESCAPE ROOM
Hereford Cathedral, Hereford HR1 2NG. Hereford Cathedral are excited to announce the launch of their new Escape Room: an
immersive clue-cracking and decoding game, hosted in the Old Chapel in the Cloisters. The Escape Room was developed as part of the Eastern Cloisters Project which was supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and other donors. Get a team together and book a session to test your skills. The experience lasts 1 hour and is suitable for groups of up to six people, costing £45 per session. Groups of under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is available on selected days throughout the year. It is 1890. You have been accused of embezzling money from the Vicars Choral funds. The police have been called and they are on their way. You have been shut in the Old Chapel until the police arrive and you have just one hour to work out who has committed the crime. If you can successfully convince your guard that you are innocent, you will be released before the police arrest you… Can you prove that you are innocent? £45.00 per group. Also taking place on 16th & 20th December.
Join us for a guided walking tour of the Clent Hills this winter. Discover nature, beauty and history at the Clent Hills on a guided wintery walk with one of our experienced volunteer guides. You’ll learn some of the fascinating stories and traditions of the Clent Hills and what wildlife and plants call it home. Adult£5.00 Child £2.50 www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Christmas is a magical time of the year, and the best part of Christmas, we think, is the gift of giving. Here’s our top gifts on our Santa wish list.
‘Inspired
If you love art and design, you’ll want to take a look at the Museum’s NEW exclusive gift range of stationery products featuring designs from the Museum’s archive of pattern designs and factory artist sketches and drawings. Premium quality products include hardback journals, notebooks, picture magnets, shopper pads, and bookmarks as well as a series of six notecards. These unique gifts showcase the design skills of Royal Worcester artists, from botanicals and flowers, to cats and art deco vases.
Who doesn’t love a new Christmas mug, especially one that’s filled with hot chocolate. The Museum shop holds a large collection from Wrendale, adorned with the cutest
creatures, from the Christmas Kisses hare to a beautiful red breasted robin. Perfect for the animal lover in your life.
Why not order a Paint-Your-Own-Pottery Kit with a seasonal bisque, paints, brushes, sponges and instructions. All you need to do
is paint your design and then return it to the Museum to be glazed and fired. You can also paint pots at the Museum itself, and if you book before the 12th December you’ll have your item back in time for Christmas.
A bedtime story for grownups and children
Why not treat your favourite book worm. Choose from a range ‘Stuff every Coffee Lover should know’’ for budding baristas, ‘The Philosophy of Tea’ and ‘Hello Design’ for creative youngsters.
Tricky to buy for? Maybe a stunning embossed voucher for an amount of your choice could be perfect. Vouchers can be used in the Museum shop for vintage and contemporary Worcester porcelain and for Museum entry and experiences, such as Paint-Your-Own-Pottery or afternoon tea served on Royal Worcester.
Find out more by visiting museumofroyalworcester.org/shop
The Fold, Bransford. Come along to The Fold’s festive late night studio openings for mince pies, mulled wine and special late night festive offers.Shop for unique, handmade, eco-friendly gifts from local artists, designers and makers at The Fold. All welcome! 5pm – 8pm.
Museum of Royal Worcester, Severn St, Worcester WR1 2ND. Bring the kids or come along with friends and enjoy creative festive fun in the Paint-Your-Own-Pottery Studio. Choose from a festive range of bisque, such as baubles and decorations, money boxes, mince pie plates, mugs, bird boxes, and picture frames, to make personalised gifts. We are open every week Thursday to Sunday and over Christmas and New Year. Discover our festive opening times and book at www. museumofroyalworcester.org
Whitbourne, Worcester, WR6 5SG. This December, wrap up warm and head into Longfield Wood for an enchanting Christmas experience. Follow our magical trail to find Santa’s grotto in a secret glade and discover our farm friends along the way. Head into our cosy, candlelit grotto as a family and enjoy an intimate meeting with the big man. Each child will receive a thoughtful gift. Filled with Christmas joy, head back to Crumplebury to warm up. The fire will roar, chef will be cooking delicious farm treats over flames on the Sunken Terrace, the bar will be open and there will be homemade cocktails and local ales a plenty. In the Grand Hall, you will find a fabulous Christmas market with gifts, homemade decorations and edible treats galore. 3pm - 9pm. Crumplebury will be open to all guests from 3pm., Tickets are required for all guests on the woodland walk and Santa experience. Dress up in warm waterproof clothing. It can be so chilly in the woods. Those guests, who would prefer to skip the woodland adventure are welcome to head straight to Crumplebury and enjoy the indoor festivities. £30.00. www.crumplebury.co.uk/event/ christmas-for-the-kids/
Hereford Cathedral, Hereford HR1 2NG. Over forty stallholders will be in Hereford cathedral on Saturday 17 December for their annual Christmas Fair. Featuring homemade produce, handcrafted items and plenty of gift ideas. At 12 noon there will be carol singing in Cathedral Close. Free Entry.
Hay Castle Oxford Road Hay-on-Wye HR3 5DG. Handmade Christmas Fair with over 40 stalls full of everything Christmas. Come along and join in the merriment, enjoy a glass of mulled wine, and visit the Snow Queen in Hay Castle on the 17 & 18 December. Free Entry to the Castle. For all stall booking inquiries, please contact claire@showcasing-wales.co.uk
Stanbrook Abbey Hotel, Jennet Tree Lane, Callow End, WR2 4TY. Powick Community Choir will be joined once again by the fantastic string chamber orchestra led by Shulah Oliver. Concerts take place in the chapel at Stanbrook Abbey hotel. Bring your family and friends to make this the most fabulous start to the Christmas season. There will be a retiring collection for charity. Tickets £12.
Hereford Cathedral, Hereford HR1 2NG. Test your skills at creating crazy constructions and super structures with Lego. Enjoy this freestyle Lego session in the South Transept with thousands of bricks and hundreds of mini figures, learn building techniques and make new friends! This after-school session lasts 1 hour and is free to attend. Cathedral Lego Club is appropriate for anyone aged between 8 and 14. Free Event.
Museum of Royal Worcester, Severn St, Worcester WR1 2ND. Bring the kids or come along with friends and enjoy creative festive fun in the Paint-Your-Own-Pottery Studio. Choose from a festive range of bisque, such as baubles and decorations, money boxes, mince pie plates, mugs, bird boxes, and picture frames, to make personalised gifts. We are open every week Thursday to Sunday and over Christmas and New Year. Discover our festive opening times and book at www. museumofroyalworcester.org. Event also takes place 27 December - 1 January.
If you’re buying a real tree in 2022, St Micheals Hospice are taking the pain and hassle out of recycling it this January and are doing the hard work. Done to support the local community and any donations given on collection, helps to pay for essential patient care at St Michael’s. Contact them for the postcode collection day.
Hartlebury Castle is closed from Friday 23 December until the end of January, reopening on Wednesday 1 February.
Enjoy an enchanting Christmas at Hartlebury Castle… A Family Christmas will be in full swing on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December. Hear live carols from the choir, try family crafts and even some circus tricks. The historic castle will be decorated especially for Christmas, and you can book a special visit to see Santa too. Find out more and book on the websitehartleburycastle.com.
At Worcester’s Commandery, make your very own gingerbread man decoration and house craft, see what you can create with gingerbread playdoh, and get stuck into some Christmas colouring. These facilitated sessions run from 10am to 12noon and end with a story, drink and a biscuit. There are limited spaces but various dates to choose from; book your place on the Museums Worcestershire websitemuseumsworcestershire.org.uk.
The Commandery is closed throughout January, reopening on Wednesday 1 February. It’s back with a bang – the biggest event of the year, Living History, takes place on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 February.
This Christmas audiences who may normally find attending the theatre a challenging experience will be given the opportunity to enjoy a beast of a show in The Courtyard’s Relaxed Performance of annual pantomime, Beauty and the Beast.
After Beauty finds herself imprisoned by a mysterious beast in an enchanted castle, there is little hope that our heroine will ever find her way out. But unbeknown to her, the beast is secretly a handsome prince under an evil curse. Only by changing his selfish ways and finding true love can he ever hope to break the spell. Will the Beast learn his lesson before the last rose petal falls? Will Beauty ever get back home? There’s only one way to find out.
A Relaxed Performance is specifically designed for those who would appreciate a less formal theatre environment. The aim is to retain all the magic of the pantomime experience but in a more relaxed setting
through sensitive changes to the performance. A quiet, sensory room will also be provided for audience members to use if they need a break from the performance. A social story will be available prior to the visit and adjustments are made to ensure the experience is as relaxed and accommodating as possible. Adjustments include effects being toned down, lights kept on low throughout the performance, and additional staff and stewards on hand to help. Relaxed Performances are open to everyone but may benefit individuals with autism spectrum conditions, learning, sensory and/ or communication difficulties.
For more information about Relaxed Performances and Screenings visit courtyard.org. uk/access. Beauty and the Beast Relaxed Performance will be in The Courtyard’s Main House on Monday 2 January at 10.30am. Contact the Box Office on 01432 340555 or visit www.courtyard.org.uk.
The Civic www.thecivicstourport.co.uk 22 December
The show where every child gets a present from Santa! Jack’s beanstalk won’t grow, Cinderella’s glass slipper is broken and what’s happened to the magic in the Fairy Godmother’s wand? It looks as though Christmas might have to be cancelled… Join Jack, Dasher the Reindeer and Pompom the Penguin for this festive, musical, interactive adventure, as they meet Father Christmas at his home in the North Pole and help Santa Save Christmas!” It’s a family show most suitable for 2-7 year olds, where every child will receive a specially wrapped present from Santa – after the most Christmassy Christmas show ever, HO-HOHO! Songs include festive favourites The Twelve Days Of Christmas, Jingle Bells, Silent Night, When Santa Got Stuck Up The Chimney, We Wish You A Merry Christmas and many more!
Conquest Theatre www.conquest-theatre.co.uk 1 - 4 December
OUR STAR THEATRE COMPANY – DICK WHITTINGTON
Dick is off to London Town to make his fortune. On the way, he teams up with a trusty feline friend, falls in love, gets
a job at the local sweet shop and has to stop evil King Rat’s master plan to take over London town! Come and join us for one massive adventure! Full of familiar faces from their touring shows, Our Star Theatre Company are delighted to be back at The Conquest Theatre with their very own Panto! Full of fun and laughter for the entire family, this super silly slapstick cast are ready to bring some Panto magic to Bromyard!
The Courtyard www.courtyard.org.uk
25 November - 7 January 2023
Be our guest at Hereford’s biggest family pantomime… The Courtyard is back with a BEAST of a show! The stage is set for magic and monstrous fun, as this famous fairy tale is brought to life. After Beauty finds herself imprisoned by a mysterious beast in an enchanted castle, there is little hope that our heroine will ever be reunited with her devoted father. But unbeknown to her, the beast is secretly a handsome prince under an evil curse. Only by changing his selfish ways and finding true love can he ever hope to break the spell. Will the Beast learn his lesson before the last rose petal falls? Will Beauty ever get back home? There’s only one way to find out! Packed with colourful characters,
Worcester’s favourite Kays Panto returns to the Swan Theatre in January, opening on Thursday 19 January for 14 performances until Sunday 29 January 2023. Alice in Wonderland is Kays’ 68th production, especially adapted for Kays by Anthony Stuart-Hicks from the original by Lewis Carroll.
This panto has all your favourites, from Alice to the Mad Hatter, the White Rabbit, Queen of Hearts and with characters to enjoy the famous Tea Party plus a Bake-Off Tent! Imagine… A nine-year-old girl treading the boards for the first time as the day dreaming Alice in her school production. Few years later, that same little girl, now in Sir Wayne Sleep’s ballet adaptations of Alice in London and appearing on Blue Peter. Fast forward to 2019, she then had a vision for Alice in Wonderland, the pantomime. And thanks to Kays Theatre Group committee, the dream has now become a reality for Rebekah Bott who is a debut
director for Kays Panto this year. She first appeared in a Kays Panto as a junior dancer and became “Goldilocks” in our 2007 production followed by Maid Marian in “Babes in the Wood”. We are so proud that Rebekah has evolved through her association with Kays from dancer, through performer, and to director and that the group have supported her every step of the way!
Kays Theatre Group continue to promote performing arts with their bursary scheme, further details and applications can be found at kaystheatregroup. co.uk/kays-theatre-group/oursupportedcharities
Tickets, priced only £13.50, for “Alice in Wonderland” are now available from Worcester Theatres Box Office at Huntingdon Hall, online at www.worcestertheatres.co.uk or by phone 01905 611427
glittering costumes, magnificent musical numbers and plenty of panto humour, Beauty and the Beast is the traditional family pantomime that will leave you spellbound! Tickets from £11
“Mirror Mirror on the wall… who is the fairest of them all…?” Find out in this enchanting retelling of the classic fairy tale as Snow White discovers that with friendship and a song in your heart, you can overcome all obstacles. Written by Nick Lane and Directed by David Durant, the beloved story of Snow White is brought to life with a few fun twists, full of creative storytelling, original songs, interactive puppetry and lots of humour! So join us for another enchanting Family Christmas show and get to know Snow White in this reworking of a classic story, created especially for little ones. A magical and accessible Christmas show full of family fun, perfect for children aged 7 & under and their grown ups. Tickets from £9
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to get into the Christmas spirit than with our festive family rave! Full of bubbles, balloons and all of your favourite tunes, crimbo classics included – bring your crew and dance your way into the festive season. Dressing up is encouraged from everyone! Suitable for all ages, ear defenders for tiny people are recommended. Remember the family that raves together, stays together! £6
21 January 2023
A shadow show in a box! The light comes on, the stars glow and as the doors open the scenery starts to scroll before your eyes. ‘There was once an old lady who wanted to play with the stars…’ so begins the traditional tale which then takes off on an adventurous romp amongst the wild beasts of the stars. Fantastical shadow puppets leap across the scrolling background and even fly out of the box onto a large paper screen. Afterwards the audience are invited to stay and play with the puppets inventing their own adventures among the stars. £7.50
www.malvern-theatres.co.uk
A sparkling fairy tale pantomime for 2022-23, starring Melanie Walters (Gavin and Stacey) as Fairy Bon Bon, Malvern’s Favourite Funny Man Mark James as Louis La Plonk, Olivia Birchenough from Channel 5’s Milkshake! as Belle and Leon Craig as Polly La Plonk. Join Belle, The Beast, Fairy Bon Bon, larger than life Polly La Plonk and her cheeky chappy son Louis La Plonk as they are transported to a cursed castle, under the spell of an evil enchantress. Can
the wicked Hugo be defeated, can Belle see beyond the Beast and fall in love with her captor, will the Beasts heart be melted by Belles beauty? With an unmissable transformation moment, slide splitting comedy, stunning sets and costumes, and an award winning script (Best Script – Great British Pantomime Awards 2019), join us for a must see, magnificent adventure. Tickets from £15.12
THE COACH HOUSE THEATRE AND DRAMA STUDIO LONDON PRESENT
A treat for the youngest ones. Dress up as the Sugar Plum Fairy, King Rat or the heroic Nutcracker. £10 (Including 12% booking fee)
A fun-packed pantomime adventure for all the family. £10.
On a snowy Christmas Eve, the meanspirited Ebeneezer Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his business partner Jacob Marley, who is weighed down by the accumulated chains of a lifetime of greed. Marley tells Scrooge he will be visited by three further spirits, each of whom will offer Scrooge an unsettling vision of himself, as well as an opportunity to change his ways … before it’s too late. Dickens’s most famous short story sold out in five days following its publication in 1843. It has never been out of print since and has been the subject of many film, stage and television adaptations. As succinct as it is timeless, Dickens’s portrait of the meaning of Christmas remains one of enduring resonance. A Seasonal treat for all the family, A Christmas Carol is adapted by Nic Lloyd, who also directs this inaugural production by the Malvern Theatres Stage Company. £16.80
Market
themarkettheate.com
“Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of us all?” asks Serpentina, the wicked queen. Well, the mirror says it’s not the queen or her horrible daughters, Violet and Nastutia, so who could it be? Come and see this brand new version of Snow White, written especially for LADS, to see if good really can triumph over evil and if Snow White really will live happily ever after.
Norbury Theatre www.norburytheatre.co.uk
17 December
A short pantomime-style play produced by adults for children. Title to be confirmed.
Times are tough for the Hardup family, they have had to sell off the grounds of Hardup Hall as a theme park. Just when Cinderella and the family’s faithful servant Buttons (Cinderella’s greatest admirer) thought things could not get any worse her father the Baron arrives home with a new bride and her daughters, the horrendous Ugly Sisters. It is not long before the Broker’s Men are knocking on the door chasing more debts. A meeting in the forest with a handsome young man, secretly overheard by a stranger, brings love for Cinderella but when her step sisters make sure she does not receive an invitation to Prince Charming’s ball it seems she may never see him again. Thanks to the Fairy Godmother she does attend but takes off as midnight strikes leaving the Prince distraught. This sets in motion a kingdom wide search by the Prince when the happy pair are reunited and, of course, live happily ever after. Tickets from £14
Number 8 www.number8.org 17 December
A fun festive workshop where children can create colourful Christmas decorations to hang from the tree or decorate your home. Led by experienced tutor Maggi Davis the young crafters will be encouraged to get creative as they paint, glue and adorn their decorations to add some sparkle to the festivities! Suitable for ages 7-11 years. All materials provided. Cost: £7.50 , 10.30am - 12.30pm
Palace Theatre www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk 10 - 31 December
BEAUTY & THE BEAST PANTO
Don’t miss Beauty and the Beast which promises to be the most stunning and enchanting of productions packed with magic and fun for all the family over the festive season! Spellbinding adventure awaits when the beautiful Belle is imprisoned in an enchanted castle with a hideous beast. Can Belle see beyond the monster and fall in love with her jailer before the last petal falls from the enchanted rose? Or will the Beast’s arrogance and selfishness cost him the world he once knew and the hand of the girl who has stolen his heart. Meanwhile the boorish Gaston, a local huntsman, who has set his sights on marrying Beauty whether she wants to or not, decides to rescue her from the Beast’s Castle and force her to be his wife. With plenty of audience participation and loads of laughter, combined with spectacular sets, beautiful costumes and magical special effects. This enchanting pantomime based on the children’s classic tale, will delight audiences of all ages. Brought to you by Paul Holman Associates producers of last year’s smash hit Jack and the Beanstalk, Beauty and the Beast has everything
you have come to expect from a Palace pantomime. Stunning sets, spectacular transformations and dazzling costumes will guarantee your festive season will go with a swing. From £18.00* - £28.50
Worcester Theatres www.worcestertheatres.co.uk
29 November - 2 January 2023
You shall go to the ball this Christmas! Join Cinderella, her best friend buttons and the ugliest sisters in town in the classic rags to riches fairy tale that enchants all ages! The Worcester Repertory Company proudly presents the most magical pantomime of all, packed full of all your favourite traditional pantomime comedy moments. Join us for this well–loved tale and cheer, boo, hiss, laugh, and sing along to your favourite songs in what promises to be Worcester’s most spectacular family pantomime yet! £10 - £21
Alice discovers that by using her imagination, anything is possible in Wonderland. Join Alice and your favourite characters, including the White Rabbit, Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts in this family pantomime from Kays. Use your imagination to experience Wonderland tea parties and delight in the Bake-Off tent. Can you help Alice find her way home? £13.50
A Little Angel Theatre and Fierylight co-production. Based on the bestselling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. George wishes he wasn’t the scruffiest giant in town. So when he sees a new shop selling giant-sized clothes, he decides it’s time for a new look: smart trousers, smart shirt, stripy tie, shiny shoes. Now he’s the smartest giant in town... until he bumps into some animals who desperately need his help – and his clothes! This heart-warming tale about friendship and helping those in need is brought to life in a musical, puppet-filled adventure, following on from Little Angel Theatre’s bestselling adaptations of Julia Donaldson’s picture books including The Singing Mermaid and The Everywhere Bear. 1:30pm & 4:30pm
The Henrician www.henrician.org
18 - 22 January 2023
It’s Panto time! Join Phoenix Theatre Group for their 33rd Traditional family pantomime full of song and dance, fun and slapstick comedy that will get you rolling in the aisles. Will Jack find the pot of gold at the top of the Beanstalk? Marvel at our magical giant and special effects. Suitable for everyone aged 3+. (Please note special effects, pyrotechnics and loud bangs throughout this production).
