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There’s no better time of year to visit the theatre. A sprinkling of stage snow, Christmas songs and the assurance of a happy ending all add seasonal sparkle to a great night out for all the family.
It wouldn’t be Christmas without pantomime, and all the big names – from Strictly dancers to soap stars – will be out in force in playhouses up and down the country, eliciting joyful cries of “It’s behind you!” from young and old alike.
However there are many other festive shows on offer, whether you want to take the kids or fancy something a little more grown-up – from classic ghost stories to the ballet, seaside variety shows, arena spectaculars and even the circus.
Why not treat yourself to a great night out?
A CHRISTMAS CAROL THE OLD VIC
By Dickens, it wouldn’t be Christmas without Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim and Marley’s Ghost. Charles Dickens’ classic story, A Christmas Carol, has become as much a fixture of the holiday season as crackers, tinsel and turkeys.
The Old Vic’s production, now in its seventh year, is also becoming a Christmas tradition.
Travelling back in time to Victorian London to play Scrooge this year is former Doctor Who star Christopher Eccleston.
Audience treats of mince pies and satsumas will add to a festive occasion that only a real old humbug wouldn’t enjoy.
From November 11 to January 6. For more details visit oldvictheatre.com.
THE NUTCRACKER LEEDS GRAND THEATRE
The Nutcracker is the quintessential Christmas ballet, and the first introduction many children will have to the magical world of classical dance.
Famous for its lavish score by Tchaikovsky, and characters such as the Sugar Plum Fairy, the story of toys and gingerbread men coming to life on Christmas Eve made its bow in Moscow, a week before Christmas, in 1892. First staged in England in 1934, it has been a yuletide treat ever since.
Companies including the English National Ballet and the Birmingham Royal Ballet are staging The Nutcracker this year, but one of the best productions will be by the Northern Ballet at Leeds Grand Theatre, from November 29 to December 10.
leedsheritagetheatres.com
THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR
