Swindon Theatres unwrap festive fun

By Barrie Hudson - 25 November 2024

AttractionsFamilyArts and Culture

Swindon's Wyvern Theatre and Arts Centre promise fun throughout December with activities for the whole family.

This Christmas, people can step into a fairytale at the Wyvern Theatre as it once again hosts the NSPCC’s enchanting Festival Of Trees, themed around family pantomime Cinderella. 
Over 30 Christmas trees will transform the Wyvern’s Spotlight Room into a festive Wonderland, where visitors can marvel at beautifully decorated trees that have been donated, sponsored and decorated by local businesses, charities and community groups. 
NSPCC Community Fundraising Manager Emma Hildesley said “I’m super excited to see the NSPCC’s Festival of Trees return for a third year, bigger and better than ever before. 
"Running alongside the Wyvern’s Panto, Cinderella, we are offering families the chance to experience a magical winter wonderland and to follow Cinderella’s mice trail to find hidden clues and win prizes. 
"This event brings together businesses, community groups, volunteers and partners to support the NSPCC’s life changing work in Swindon and we are so grateful to everyone involved in bringing this event to life and showing their support for children this Christmas.” 
The Festival Of Trees will be open to visitors at the Wyvern Theatre from Saturday 7 December to Sunday 5 January. All funds raised from the festival will go to the NSPCC, which has its South West regional hub based in Swindon, providing support services for children and families in the local area.
In support of the Festival of Trees, Charlton Park Estate have donated a beautiful 30ft Nordmann Fir tree that will be Swindon Town Centre's main Christmas Tree.  
The Christmas Tree will be illuminated on Saturday 30 November at the Christmas Tree Lights Switch On in Regent Street, outside the Town Hall.
The Wyvern Theatre is also partnering with Swindon Libraries to bring festive magic to families across the town through the launch of their first ever Christmas Story Trail with The Queen’s Present, a story from Children’s Library Patron and award-winning writer and illustrator Steve Antony. 
The trail takes visitors on a journey throughout the heart of Swindon Town Centre. Visitors can start the story at Central Library and then use the map to discover the story stops to read Steve Antony’s fun and festive book, including a stop at the Wyvern.
Swindon Arts Centre invites families to enjoy their enchanting festive offering The Father Christmas Show, billed as a delightful performance perfect for little ones and families. 
Running from Wednesday 18 December to Tuesday 24 December, The Father Christmas Show is offered as the perfect way to introduce little ones to the magic of theatre and Christmas. 
A spokesperson said: "Join Father Christmas and his Chief Elves in the North Pole as they get ready for Christmas Eve. Father Christmas has decided to give Mrs Claus a well-earned rest so has enlisted his elves – and you – to help him complete an ever-growing to-do list! 
"He needs your help to check the Naughty and Nice list, look after his reindeer, and so much more… all before the Clock strikes!
"Guaranteed to be jam-packed with more jokes than a Christmas cracker, this is an adventure the whole family can enjoy with magic, songs, and festive cheer throughout!
"And what festive season wouldn’t be complete without the Wyvern Theatre’s annual pantomime! Cinderella is the hilarious family pantomime suitable for all ages, with tons of slapstick comedy, plenty of audience interaction and stunning musical numbers that you are guaranteed to be singing for days afterwards. 
"Starring Coronation Street’s Lisa George as Fairy Godmother, Ben Goffe as Buttons and the hilarious David Ashley as Dame Molly Miggins. The clock is ticking, so pop on your glad-rags and grab your tickets to the ball for the show that proves that a pair of shoes really can change your life!
"Cinderella is produced by Imagine Theatre and proudly sponsored by Swindon Travel Hub."
Visitors can also get in the spirit by visiting the theatre's café and bars before the shows to indulge in some extra special festive offerings including mulled wine and a twist on a classic favourite with our Naughty Elf Hot Chocolate.
Theatre Director Laura James said "This is our favourite time of year, and we cannot wait to welcome everyone into our venues during the festive period. 
"With so much on offer to suit all ages and tastes, it’s the perfect opportunity to visit with family and friends and experience the magic of Theatre.
"From Tree Festivals to Story Trails, adventures with the Big Man himself, delicious festive treats and of course our wonderful Pantomime; even the Grinch’s heart will melt from the warmth of our wonderful offerings this Christmas!"
Tickets for Cinderella ( Saturday 7 December 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025) are available at https://trafalgartickets.com/wyvern-theatre-swindon/en-GB/event/pantomime/cinderella-tickets
Tickets for The Father Christmas Show (Wednesday 18 December to Tuesday 24 December 2024) are available at https://trafalgartickets.com/swindon-arts-centre/en-GB/event/family/the-father-christmas-show-tickets
 

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