Chronicle The Roses’
Dear Friends,
Thank you for being part of The Roses community. Whether you’ve supported us through campaigns, are a member, patron or volunteer, your belief in creativity makes all the difference.
In this edition of The Roses Chronicle, you’ll find stories that mark a special moment in our journey— looking back on 50 years of creative life at the heart of Tewkesbury and ahead to all that’s still to come. From vibrant community festivals to bold new programmes in Creative Health, the issue reflects how creativity continues to bring people together, spark ideas and lay strong foundations for the future.
We’re especially proud of our commitment to access and inclusion, thoughtfully reflected in Andrea Preston’s guest article on what it means to truly welcome everyone. Her insights are a reminder of the care, thought and action it takes to make space where all voices can thrive.
Thanks to your support, we’re continuing to grow— building partnerships with NHS commissioners, developing opportunities for young people, and engaging with environmental storytelling that connects community and place.
As ever, you’ll also find a host of notices, and this summer’s Creativity Corner offers a joyful, Munchkinthemed activity to try at home inspired by our recent Roses Young Creatives performance of The Wizard of Oz.
We hope you enjoy the issue and that you’ll join us for something soon.
Warm wishes,
Grace End Development Manager
A Night to Remember
HERE’S TO 50 YEARS OF MAGIC AT THE ROSES COMMUNITY, CELEBRATION, AND THE UNFORGETTABLE SPIRIT OF THE 70S!
On Fri 16 May, our community came together to celebrate a truly special milestone: The Roses’ 50th anniversary. It was a night full of energy, music and unforgettable 70s style and we couldn’t have done it without you!
Thanks to your generosity, we raised just over £2,500 for The Roses Trust. As a charity that receives no government funding, your support directly helps us continue shaping the future of The Roses. The funds you helped raise will make a real, lasting difference—ensuring that The Roses remains not only a theatre, but a thriving hub of creativity, inspiration and togetherness for years to come.
We’re incredibly grateful to the talented live bands—Groove Jacks, Kick Back and XL5—who brought the event to life and kept the crowd dancing from the very first note. Each band delivered high-energy performances packed with 70s classics, funky
rhythms and feel-good vibes that had everyone on their feet and singing along. A special shoutout as well to DJ Andy, who delivered an unbeatable soundtrack of disco hits and dancefloor favourites. He made sure the energy never dipped and that every last moment of the celebration was filled with music and movement.
We’d also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to RED for generously gifting us the use of one of their lorries as our stage. Their support helped make the event possible and gave us a brilliant platform—literally—for all the fantastic performances that defined the night.
From bell-bottoms to bold prints, glittering accessories to platform shoes, your costumes lit up the night and transformed Sun Street into a true 1970s time capsule. Everywhere we looked there were flares swaying on the dance floor and smiles from ear to ear. You didn’t just show up in costume—you
embraced the spirit of the era with energy, colour and creativity that brought the whole evening to life. A huge congratulations goes to Stuart Dove, who stole the spotlight and took home the title of Best Dressed in our fancy dress competition—your outfit truly was the definition of 70s flair!
Fancy dress competition winner Stuart Dove receiving his prize from Jessica Brewster, The Roses Director
A busy Bloomin' 50 Fest at sunset
“"The people of Tewkesbury always know how to celebrate in style—your energy, generosity and sense of togetherness are what keep us going and inspire us to create more moments like this for everyone."
- Jess Brewster Director of The Roses Theatre
Over the past five decades, The Roses has been a stage not only for unforgettable performances, but for the memories and milestones shared by our community. Hearing your stories and reflections has been both heartwarming and inspiring—a powerful reminder that our history isn’t just about what’s happened on the stage, but the people who’ve filled the seats, volunteered their time and stood by us over the years.
If you have a memory or moment you’d like to share, we’d love to hear it. Visit rosestheatre.org/ standing-ovation to contribute your story and be part of our living history.
To our customers, friends, loyal patrons business partners and even those we haven’t met yet—thank you. Your continued belief in what we do is what got us here, and we’re excited to keep growing with you for the next 50 years.
Here’s to the past, present, and future of The Roses.
Groove Jacks performing live at It’s Bloomin’ 50 Fest ◀
Meg, Creative Health and Community Producer, encouraging people to share their memories of The Roses
Opening Doors: A Personal Perspective
ANDREA PRESTON SHARES HER EXPERIENCE GROWING UP WITH A DISABLED PARENT AND REFLECTS ON THE EVOLVING VISIBILITY OF DISABLED PEOPLE IN PUBLIC SPACES AND THE ARTS.
We’re pleased to welcome back Andrea Preston as a guest writer for The Roses Chronicle. Andrea shares a powerful personal perspective on inclusion and access—themes that sit at the heart of our work at The Roses.
A Guest Article by
Andrea Preston
At the age of 28 my father lost a leg in a motorcycle accident near Crewe. The surgeon, who must have been very skilled, managed to save his knee. For most of his life Dad had been a good swimmer but now he had no access to a pool. In the 1950s public spaces weren’t designed for people with disabilities. Now when I swim at Tewkesbury Leisure Centre I often say good morning to a gentleman amputee who also turns up regularly. I enjoy seeing him swimming. It reminds me of how far we have come since the 50s. It was pretty much the same everywhere there were no wheelchair ramps, wheelchairfriendly toilets or easy access to trains or buses. That means anyone with reduced or nonexistent mobility was unable to enjoy the simple pleasure of going to the cinema or theatre. The first time I became aware of improved, disabled-friendly facilities was probably during the 80s. For years I had travelled
around Britain by train; now I began to notice that toilets on trains were wider and had bars which could be grabbed and used as hoists. Then I began to notice improved facilities in pubs and restaurants. I remember the Royal Shakespeare Theatre being refurbished because the 1932 building was inadequate and did not meet the legal requirements for disabled access. I thought of Dad and how, if he had been unfortunate enough to lose both legs or the surgeon had been unable to save his knee, he would have benefitted from these improvements. And then I thought of all the other people who live with disability, all day every day, and want nothing more than to be treated the same as everyone else including being able to watch a play or film.
Indeed, many disabled people have made their living from performing. Ravel wrote a piano concerto for the left hand for a friend who had lost his arm in the first world war. Those of us of a certain age who were fans of Gerry Anderson’s puppet programmes may be aware that actor Donald Gray, the voice of Colonel White in Captain Scarlet and the Mysterons, lost an arm in the second world war. From the 1950s to the mid-1970s the musical comedy duo Flanders and Swann were immensely popular—Michael
Flanders was wheelchair-bound because he contracted polio in 1943. I remember, on one of my Flanders & Swann albums, him describing what happened when he and Donald Swann set off to tour America; in order to board the plane he would be lifted— wheelchair and all—into the kitchen with the aid of a fork-lift truck (he described the process as "very stately"). Moving forward to the present, actor Tom Burke was born with a hare lip and has many performances to his credit.
This article is dedicated to Hughie Preston, my Dad, who despite his disability learned to walk with a prosthetic, rode a bicycle until he was 80 and for many years danced twice a week with Mum. He never let his disability get him down. I couldn't have had a better role model.
Our thanks to Andrea for once again lending her voice to The Roses Chronicle. At The Roses we're proud of steps like H Row and the warm welcome we’re known for—and we’re currently awaiting the outcome of a funding bid that would help us take the next big leap in making our venue more physically accessible.
Making Tewkesbury Inclusive for Everyone
TEWKESBURY ACCESS FORUM IS DRIVING POSITIVE CHANGE BY REVIEWING VENUES FOR ACCESSIBILITY—STARTING AT THE ROSES AND REACHING OUT TO LOCAL BUSINESSES.
Anew initiative, Tewkesbury Access Forum, has been launched to improve accessibility and inclusivity for disabled people across Tewkesbury. Formed by local residents with lived experience of disability, the forum aims to raise awareness and drive practical change by reviewing venues and offering constructive feedback to make spaces more accessible for everyone—both locals and visitors.
The group meets every two months at The Roses and their first accessibility review focused on The Roses itself.
Positive highlights include:
• Level access with automatic doors
• A low Box Office counter for seated or standing visitors
• Row H reserved and adaptable for wheelchair users
• A small lift for a wheelchair user and one standing person
• Accessible toilets and bars on every floor
“At The Roses, we believe everyone should be able to access arts, culture, and community spaces with ease and dignity,” said Meg Dunford, Creative Health and Community Producer. “We’re proud to host and support the Tewkesbury Access Forum—a vital initiative led by people with lived experience who are working collaboratively to improve accessibility across our town. By listening, learning, and taking action together, we can create a more welcoming and inclusive Tewkesbury for all.”
Looking ahead, the forum will review local shops, restaurants and businesses, identifying what works and what needs improvement. They encourage local businesses—especially pubs, restaurants and retail outlets—to engage with feedback and help make Tewkesbury more accessible.
To get involved or learn more, email tewkesburyaccessforum@gmail.com or find them on Facebook at Tewkesbury Access Forum.
A New Chapter
MARKING 50 YEARS, THE ROSES IS INVESTING IN ARTS AND WELLBEING— PLACING CREATIVE HEALTH AT THE HEART OF ITS WORK AND BUILDING A MORE CONNECTED, INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY.
At the end of last year, our community helped us raise an incredible £50,000 through The Big Give Christmas Challenge— marking our 50th anniversary with a shared commitment to the future. Thanks to every individual who donated, this support is helping us reignite our role in Creative Health, placing arts and wellbeing at the heart of our work. We’re thrilled to be working with local NHS commissioners, who have invested an additional £40,000 to grow this work further. Their backing— alongside community support —is enabling us to build strong foundations, support artist development, strengthen partnerships and address local needs, particularly around dementia support activity.
Creative Health—the growing recognition that creativity plays a vital role in health and wellbeing—is gaining national attention, including at government level through the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) which launched in November 2024. Gloucestershire is one of the key regions helping shape this work and we’re proud to be rekindling our contribution to this sector here at The Roses.
To ensure we develop this work in the right vein, we’ve taken time to reflect, listen and lay
down a set of foundations that will shape how our Creative Health & Wellbeing Department grows. These are not fixed ideas but living ones—built to evolve with the people and communities we serve.
Creative Health & Wellbeing Vision and Mission
We are cultural change trailblazers, using creativity to improve quality of life and wellbeing for our entire community.
To create environments where everyone—whatever their lived experience—can thrive authentically. We champion diversity as essential to a healthy community, taking a person-centred approach.
Our Values
Advocacy - We champion the voices of those we serve, actively promoting their interests and rights within our organisation and the wider community.
Person Centred - We place individuals at the heart of everything we do, tailoring our approach to honour each person's unique needs, preferences and circumstances.
Sustainable - We commit to practices that ensure long-term viability—environmentally, financially and socially— creating lasting positive impact for future generations.
Accessible - We remove barriers to participation, ensuring our services, spaces and programmes can be easily reached, used and understood by everyone.
Equitable - We recognise diverse needs require different approaches, allocating resources and opportunities fairly to create genuine equality of outcomes rather than merely identical treatment.
Our five key outcomes for our Creative Health & Wellbeing Department
1. We can facilitate diverse bodies and minds to experience all aspects of our venue
2. The Roses Team are empowered and confident in supporting people with diverse bodies and minds to engage in our programmes
3. Increased public awareness and policy influence on Creative Wellbeing
4. Improved perception of quality of life of people’s mental and physical Wellbeing through our creative programmes
5. To be an innovator in the sector, through independent projects, strategic partnerships and co-creation
Connecting Our Artists & Listening: Our June Artist Gathering
From these foundations, we’re already seeing impact. In June, our Creative Health & Community Producer, Megan co-designed and hosted a pivotal Artist Gathering with Open Arms Collective, Cheltenham. The gathering brought together creative practitioners eager to explore meaningful work with people living with dementia and their carers.
The session has given space for needed open dialogue about the transformative power of arts practice in dementia care and proved instrumental in connecting artists to each other. One participant remarked how isolating it can be as a freelancer working with vulnerable communities or making this kind of work.
It provided us with the opportunity to share the departments values and vision and is the first step in creating a supportive network of practitioners committed to person-centred creative practice. Participants exchanged their experiences and explored how artistic expression and their chosen artforms can enhance wellbeing and offer connection for people affected by dementia.
For The Roses Theatre, hosting this session marked a significant milestone in our commitment to accessible, inclusive arts programming and facilitator support.
The event has laid essential groundwork for our expanded dementia-friendly initiatives, made possible through vital NHS ICB funding investment. This support enables us to develop sustainable, evidencebased creative programmes
that genuinely serve our community's needs.
The enthusiasm and expertise shared during the gathering reinforced why this work matters deeply. By bringing together artists, healthcare professionals and community advocates, we're building a collaborative foundation that will enhance lives through creative engagement.
This session represents another milestone in our journey towards making The Roses Theatre and it’s programmes a truly welcoming space where everyone can experience the joy and connection that arts participation brings.
"This has been such a great session, it’s help me start to plan my next NPO round. THANK YOU!"
- Rachael Savage Artistic Director, VAMOS
“
The
Artist
Gathering, is just the first of many and has been so well received. I want to make work that serves and supports our local artists and provides them with the space
and skills to support our communities with Dementia and their carers."
- Meg, Creative Health & Community Producer
Artists mapping their experiences of creative health ◀
Growing Up Creative
ONE YEAR ON WITH INSPIRE & INFINITE CREATIVES.
Infinite Possibilities: How Creativity is Changing Lives at The Roses
Infinite Creatives first came to life in 2022, thanks to funding from Gloucestershire County Council. It was created to give young people with autism a regular space to express themselves creatively at The Roses—and right from the start, it became something truly special. Meeting monthly, the sessions quickly became a muchloved space for expression, imagination and community.
Since 2020, North Gloucestershire has sadly seen the disappearance of all extracurricular activities outside of school specifically designed for children with special educational needs (SEN). So, when our initial funding for Infinite Creatives was due to end in summer 2024, we knew we couldn’t let this vital programme fade away. And together, we didn’t.
Thanks to the phenomenal generosity of our supporters— and a whirlwind week in March 2024 as part of The Big Give’s Arts for Impact campaign—we raised over £24,500 to secure and expand Infinite Creatives for another two years.
Now in its next chapter, Infinite
Creatives is more inclusive and ambitious than ever. The sessions are held weekly and open to young people with any kind of neurodiversity, learning difficulty or disability. We've brought on a brilliant second facilitator to widen our creative offer, added more subsidised theatre tickets, and packed the programme with even more opportunities to explore and grow.
Participants explore drama, music, crafts and more while also becoming part of The Roses community. They’ve supported our RYC Youth Theatre by crafting props for The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition, and in one especially joyful session, learned choreography to If I Only Had a Brain in just 15 minutes—then performed it multiple times with the music!
These Saturday sessions aren’t just about making art—they’re about belonging. The Roses now offer young people a chance to relax, connect and express themselves in a welcoming and supported environment. With refreshments at lunchtime, and even the occasional sibling joining in, these sessions champion youth voice and exercise their own autonomy. Right now, our group remains small and close-knit—but we’re always ready to welcome more. While we get lots of interest, we know that joining for the
first time can feel like a big step, especially for families who haven’t engaged with us before. That’s why we’re so grateful to the donors who’ve made it possible for us to reach out to schools and colleges directly. We want to help students feel more confident talking to their families about joining Infinite Creatives.
We can’t wait to see what the next year brings. Infinite Creatives is bursting with untapped talent and we are honoured to provide a platform for it to shine. Thank you to every single person who has donated to or championed this programme—your support truly makes a difference.
Please spread the word and let’s keep creativity infinite.
Inspire: A Theatre Making Programme for SEN Students
We’re so excited to share the success of Inspire—our reimagined inclusive theatre programme designed to bring the magic of theatremaking to young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This year, we built on our long-standing partnership with Milestone School in Gloucester, working from March to July with two brilliant classes of 11–13-yearolds to co-create a brand-new piece of devised theatre.
Led by the wonderful Sam Strachan—our specialist drama and music practitioner—and supported by me in schools, Inspire is all about creating something from nothing. Using improvisation, physical theatre and non-verbal storytelling, the project places student voice, wellbeing and creativity at its heart.
Each week began with familiar rituals including warmups to carefully chosen music, collaborative games and a collective affirmation of three
promises: be kind, take turns and try something. These simple affirmations, repeated like a little theatrical mantra, helped build a culture of safety, joy and trust from day one.
Sam’s background in clowning, music and inclusive practice was at the heart of what made Inspire so special. His infectious energy and ability to connect made the room buzz—and the bonds he built with students became the foundation for some incredible creative risk-taking and self-expression (plus some very funny nicknames!). Sam didn’t just mentor the students— he mentored me too, and his guidance helped me grow in confidence and clarity in my own inclusive practice. These were truly the highlights of my week—always different, always fun and always rewarding.
And before they knew it, the students had built a whole show. Through weeks of exploring theatre techniques including characterisation, physical theatre, voice artistry, prop work, sound scaping, freeze frames and more, they
developed a full performance without the pressure of a traditional rehearsal structure —and it was all theirs.
Their final piece, performed on Tue 1 Jul, was set in The Stanley Hotel. A setting they imagined and brought to life with flair early on in the creative process. They shaped the lighting design, costuming, props and even performed live foley sound effects on stage. What emerged was a vibrant, inventive murder mystery and thriller, with scenes entirely crafted from their own ideas, voices and imaginations.
The impact was extraordinary and the success of Inspire has made it clear: creative work like this has the power to transform lives. It builds confidence, communication and joy in self-expression. Some students engaged every week, others popped in and out, and a few stayed on the edges—yet still took part in the final performance. The structure of the sessions was paramount in building their confidence and social health. One moment that will stay with me forever was watching a young girl independently regulate themselves on stage, in front of an audience and perform a knock-out scene after she could barely bring herself to enter the stage. That’s the power of work like this.
We’re now seeking funding to run Inspire again in 2025, this time with an additional school—and we’re planning a double-bill public performance next spring. With your support, we can keep this momentum going and share even more extraordinary stories made by extraordinary young people. These articles have been written by Georgia Shire, Children & Young People Producer
The Inspire class during a session with leader Sam Strachan
Welcoming Abbey Galleries
We’re pleased to welcome Abbey Galleries as our newest Business Patrons of The Roses. It’s exciting to see a dedicated gallery space opening in town, committed to celebrating both local and professional artists.
We were also honoured to attend the private view of Jilly OxladeArnott’s latest solo exhibition, A Celebration of Worcester, currently showing at Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum. The exhibition runs until 2 Nov 2025 —we highly recommend a visit.
Last Call for Memories of The Roses
Our Standing Ovation: 50 Years of Stage and Screen project is gathering your favourite Roses memories—photos, stories, and special moments. If you haven’t shared yours yet, now’s your last chance!
To contribute, visit our website: rosestheatre.org/standingovation, pick up a pack from The Roses Box Office, or contact our Creative Health & Community Producer, Megan Dunford, directly at megan. dunford@rosestheatre.org.
Roses Rewind Classic Film Season – Vote & Join In!
Our 50th anniversary cinema celebration continues with Roses Rewind, bringing decades of classic films back to the big screen with themed nights and fancy dress!
Next stop:
The 2000s - Fri 19 Sep.
The films for each screening will be chosen by you! Cast your vote and help pick the favourites to screen on these dates.
Head to rosestheatre.org/rosesrewind to vote and join the fun!
Climate Collaboratorium: River Stories & Theatre for Change
The Roses is proud to be a partner in the Climate Collaboratorium, an international three-year research project led by the University of Saskatchewan with collaborators across the UK, US, Canada, and Germany. Locally, we’re working alongside Professor Lindsey McEwen (UWE & Chair of Tewkesbury Nature Reserve) to explore climate change and water resilience through applied theatre
We’ve already hosted workshops inviting local residents to share their stories of the river in Tewkesbury—how it’s changed, and what it means to them. These insights will form the basis of a live, interactive performance in 2026, created right here at The Roses.
This collaboration places The Roses at the heart of nationally significant work on climate adaptation, community storytelling, and environmental resilience. We’re excited to continue this journey—and to keep you updated as it unfolds.
Upgrades to The Roses Stage
Following funding received from a generous individual and the Rural England Prosperity Fund in the spring, all funded stage works have now been completed. This includes brand new stage curtains, two new LED follow spots, upgraded hand winches & chain hoists and a lightweight cinema screen.
In addition, with further support from Gloucestershire Electrical Services Ltd, we’ve doubled our stage power capacity by installing a second socket— giving visiting productions such as Queenz, That’ll Be The Day and 80s Mania greater flexibility with their technical setups.
Further improvements are planned for August—more on that in the next issue.
Bill Bailey Returns to The Roses
Following the phenomenal success of his sold-out residency last year, Bill Bailey returns to The Roses Theatre this summer for 14 intimate performances from 11–17 Aug. Tickets are selling quickly with limited seats available. Book now rosestheatre.org/events/ bill-bailey-work-in-progress
Pantomime Marketing Day
On Thu 17 Jul we held our Pantomime Marketing Day—a brilliant opportunity to capture all the excitement ahead of this year’s Jack and the Beanstalk.Throughout the day we filmed our trailer and shot promotional photography.
Our Marketing Day is always a fantastic chance to meet the pantomime cast and soak up the energy—and this year we're thrilled to welcome back many familiar faces! Returning to The Roses stage this Christmas are Michael, Andras, Abena, Bonnie Banks and Charlotte (last year’s Cinderella and our pantomime writer). We’re also excited to introduce two new cast members: Nadia and Dylan—we can’t wait for you to meet them!
Our trusted film crew Wild Edric Media returned once again to help us create an action-packed trailer while Jack Boskett and photographer Kevin were on hand to capture stunning shots of the cast.
We were also delighted to welcome our Cotteswold Dairy, who will be sponsoring this year’s family pantomime. They had the chance to meet the cast and get a special behind-the-scenes look at the filming process.
We can’t wait to share everything we’ve been working on for Jack and the Beanstalk—coming to The Roses this Christmas. Keep an eye on our social media for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and exciting updates! You can book your tickets now at rosestheatre.org/pantomime
We’re growing!
Right now, we’re recruiting for several new roles across the organisation, reflecting both our ambitions and the needs of our evolving audience. We’re looking for people who are passionate about creativity, community, and making the arts truly accessible to all.
If you or someone you know is ready for a new adventure, full details are available at rosestheatre.org/jobs.
Members Discount!
FRIENDS AND PATRONS GET £2 OFF UP TO TWO TICKETS ON ALL OF THESE SHOWS!
The Mersey Beatles
THU 4 SEP 7.30PM
Fans of The Beatles prepare to be wowed as the world’s favourite Liverpool-born tribute to the Fab Four are back with an all-new show for 2025!
An Evening Without Kate Bush
THU 18 SEP 7.30PM
Whether you’ve been a fan for decades or recently joined the shoal via the Stranger Things phenomenon, there has never been a better time to release your inner Bush and celebrate at this joyful, unique and mind-blowing show.
The Psychology of Dogs
WED 22 OCT 7.30PM
Specialist canine behaviourist and advanced trainer, Paula has spent over a decade helping thousands of dogs (and their humans!) understand each other better.
An Evening With Phil Beer
THU 13 NOV 7.30PM
With a professional career of over 36 years, Phil has a great deal of material to draw on for his solo appearances, which are an eclectic mix of traditional tunes, covers of Springsteen or The Hollies, together with his own compositions and songs from his contemporaries.
Women In Rock
SAT 4 OCT 7.30PM
Get ready to crank up the volume and feel the power for Women in Rock, the electrifying live show dedicated entirely to the trailblazing women who shattered the ceilings and redefined rock music forever.
Swing From Paris
THU 11 DEC 7.30PM
Swing from Paris are a quartet inspired by the great swing bands of the 1930s, 40s and 50s: Benny Goodman and Charlie Christian meets Django Reinhardt, Stéphane Grappelli and the Hot Club of France.
Over The Rainbow
WIZARD OF OZ INSPIRED MAKES & MOCKTAILS!
Our Roses Young Creatives’ joyful take on The Wizard of Oz was a technicolour triumph! To celebrate the magic they brought to the stage, we’re bringing a little Oz sparkle to this edition’s Creativity Corner.
Whether you're chilling out at home or planning a summer gathering, here are two creative ways to keep the magic going...
The Munchkinland Mocktail
A bright and fizzy summer drink for all ages — small in size, big in joy!
What you need:
• 1/2 cup cloudy apple juice
• 1/4 cup lemonade (or sparkling water for less sweetness)
• A splash of blueberry or cranberry juice for colour
• Crushed ice
• Sliced fruit (lemon, apple, or strawberries)
• A cocktail umbrella or striped straw for flair!
Instructions:
1. Fill a small glass halfway with crushed ice.
2. Add your apple juice, then lemonade.
3. Carefully pour in your splash of blueberry/ cranberry juice—it’ll swirl like Oz magic!
4. Drop in some fruit slices, stir gently and top with a tiny umbrella.
Perfect for sipping in ruby slippers.
Make Your Own Paper Lily
Inspired by the magical poppy fields and blooming set designs of Oz!
What you need:
• Colourful paper (preferably green and a bright petal colour)
• Scissors
• Glue stick or tape
• Pencil
• Ruler (optional)
• Green straw or wooden stick (for the stem)
Instructions:
1. Draw & Cut: On coloured paper, draw 4-5 petal shapes (long ovals with one pointed end). Cut them out.
2. Shape the Petals: Gently curl the edges around a pencil to give them a soft, natural shape.
3. Form the Flower: Overlap the bases of the petals in a circle and glue them together.
4. Add the Stem: Attach your flower to a straw or stick and wrap green paper around the base to create a seamless stem.
Optional: Cut a small yellow or white fringe to glue into the centre as the lily’s stamen.
Please Keep Spreading the Word
If you enjoyed this edition of The Roses Chronicle, please pass it along to a friend. Or better yet—bring them with you next time you visit! We’re always looking to grow our community, and there’s no better recommendation than yours. Thank you for your continued support and for spreading the word.