The Pass
Inspirational ideas for group days out and holidays
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The show must go on…
The show must go on…
The winter season isn’t complete without enjoying a theatre show or panto with your group. Here’s some that will take you through Christmas and into the New Year.
Bring to life
The stage version of Raymond Briggs' much-loved book, The Snowman, continues to delight audiences everywhere as it returns to the Peacock Theatre, Holborn, this Christmas. It tells the story of a young boy's snowman that magically comes to life on Christmas Eve, and the two set off on a night-time quest for adventure. On their travels, they meet dancing penguins, reindeer and, of course, Father Christmas. Suitable for all ages, this is a captivating mix of dance, stagecraft and music, and features a live orchestra. The show runs from 3 December 2008 to 11 January 2009.
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0844 412 4322
A whole new world
Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre opened in 1965 and is situated next to the River Wey, in the heart of the town. This year’s pantomime will be Aladdin, starring Nigel Havers as Abanazar. Group bookers can receive £5 off each ticket for a party of 10 or more on certain performances throughout December and January. The theatre also has extensive catering facilities available to suit all budgets, providing a complete day out for everyone. For more information or to book tickets, call the number below or visit their website.
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01483 44 00 00
Song and dance
Following the critical triumph of last year's Dick Whittington, the Hackney Empire have brought together the same celebrated artistic team to present a sparkling new production of Mother Goose. The show, which runs from 29 November 2008 to 10 January 2009, tells the story of magical sisters Vanity and Charity who let their sibling rivalry get the better of them, as they decide to prove who is the strongest witch. Along the way you’ll meet the gorgeous Pricilla, laugh at the antics of Baron Bonkers and Evil Edna, visit the magic pool in the heart of an enchanted forest where skeletons dance and crows sing, and join in the cheering and booing along the way. Groups of 10 or more are eligible for an additional free ticket for every 10 tickets purchased.
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020 8985 2424
Hand clapping fun
Groups can expect a warm welcome with an intimate atmosphere when they visit Kings Theatre in Southsea. The 1600 seat theatre has some great shows coming up for Christmas and the New Year. First up is Cinderella, which runs from 10 December 2008 to Sunday 4 January 2009, and stars Charlene Tilton (Lucy Ewing, Dallas) Syd Little (Little and Large) and Simon Grant (CBBC). Then from 16 February to 21 February 2009, you can enjoy the west end production of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. The show is a glorious romp, brimful of hand clapping energy, dazzling dance routines and 16 smash hit showstoppers. To book your tickets call the number below or visit their website.
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023 9285 2208
Mysterious adventure
From 28 November to 14 December 2008, Birmingham Royal Ballet presents the magical tale of The Nutcracker at the Birmingham Hippodrome. The scene is set on Christmas Eve and tells the story of Clara and her family, where mysterious things start to happen when Clara is given a beautiful Nutcracker doll by a magician at a family party. During the evening Clara is transported on a thrilling journey that she will never forget. Groups can witness magical scenery, dancing, and an amazing transformation, making it the perfect ballet to visit this Christmas. To book tickets call the number below or visit the Birmingham Royal Ballet for more details.
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0844 338 5000
Thrilling journey
The Barbican Centre is the largest multi-arts centre in Europe, featuring art, film, music, theatre, dance and education all under one roof. This year’s Christmas play is Hansel and Gretel by the Catherine Wheels Theatre Company, and runs from 1 December 2008 to 4 January 2009. This reinvention of Grimm’s classic fairytale is an exciting promenade adventure and tells the story of Hansel and Gretel, who have been abandoned by their cold-hearted stepmother and cowardly father. As you walk through the wintry world of Hansel and Gretel, you will be taken on a thrilling journey through an eerie forest into a tempting Sweetie House. To book tickets or to find out more, visit their website below.
Fame and fortune
From 5 December 2008 to 18 January 2009, groups can enjoy laughter and fun at this year’s Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmund’s pantomime, Puss in Boots. Set in the swashbuckling time of Roundheads and Cavaliers, a poor, but handsome miller’s son and his crafty cat, who dons a pair of boots, embark on a fantastical journey to find fame and fortune. Glinting rapiers, duels, very long curly wigs, comedy capers and excitement are the order of the day in this seasonal adventure. To book your tickets or for more information visit their website below.