stalbanslife

Peter Pan by Ayletts Garden Centre

The snow has arrived and the Christmas Pantomime and Show Season in St Albans is about to start! How very timely! There are wonderful events lined up in the city this year so if you haven’t already booked a ticket, read the list below and see what might appeal to your family.

–Abbey Theatre is holding the wonderful classic ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ from Thur 16 to Tue 28th Dec.  This story, by Charles Dickens (who has spent time in St Albans!) is about the mean Ebenezer Scrooge. He learns to give up his bad habits and embrace the spirit of giving. This promises to be a fun and lively family production as you meet Bob Cratchit, Fred and the jolly Freeziwigs; but brace yourself for the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future!

BOX OFFICE 01727 857861, Westminster Lodge, Holywell Hill, St Albans. Parking spaces at the Theatre.

–St Albans Arena are treating us to PETER PAN from 10th dec – 2nd Jan.   Well-known Larry Lamb (EastEnders) and Katy Ashworth (CBeebies) are amongst a great line up of fun characters. I saw Peter Pan at the Arena years ago and enjoyed it as much as the children did. Top humour on all levels! Evolution will be dazzling us with costumes, comedy and theatre sets. As ever, audience participation will inject that buzz we need in this cold weather!

BOX OFFICE 01727 844488, Civic Centre, St Albans. Parking spaces near cinema and in nearby Maltings Shopping Centre. www.alban-arena.co.uk

–Maltings Art Theatre will hold ROBINSON CRUSOE AND THE PIRATES from Tue 21 – Sun 26 Dec. This venue is very popular with St Albans families and parking is in same building as the theatre.

Robinson Crusoe, washed up on a desert island which has buried treasure. Pirates find out about his search and the adventure begins!

BOX OFFICE  01727  844222  The Maltings, St Albans

–Trestle Arts Base has something different with THE SNOW DRAGON from Wed 29 Dec to Sun 2 Jan.  Billy the Goat is told that the mysterious Snow Dragon will bring him lots of goodies but has he been naughty or nice? Suitable for age 3 upwards, there is lots of storytelling, comedy and songs to create a magical feel for all the family.

BOX OFFICE  01727 850950   Russet Drive, St Albans www.trestle.org.uk

If you make it to any (or all!) of the above, we welcome your comments or tips. Enjoy.

I was rather hesitant about going to this year’s Christmas Pantomime at the St Albans Arena. For the past few years, I paid over £100 to see the pantomimes with my family and had not come away feeling satisfied. Last night, however, my child and I were enthralled by The Little Mermaid from start to finish. I spoke to other parents who were equally as awed by this show.

Sarah Jane Honeywell was as professional as ever. Her strong voice and pretty looks were perfect for the part of Mermaid. I didn’t anticipate enjoying the 3D effects but as advertised, the technology used is seriously groundbreaking! It was scary, credible, moving and captivating. The experience of being brought through the bottom of the ocean (by Cecil the Seahorse), encountering characters that almost grab you, had me on the edge of my seat.

My favourite character was Long John Silver (also known as Buster). He was engaging and charismatic from the minute he walked on stage. Throwing mischievous glances frequently to the audience, Buster included us from the very start. He has that ‘Michael McIntyre’ sort of wholesomeness about his character and he was so relaxed in the funniest way possible. It came as a complete surprise that this is his first Pantomime!

This show has comedy to suit everyone, outstanding performers with dazzling costumes, incredible 3D effects and top musical entertainment; I would recommend you see this. It does give great value for money especially as you experience good quality on your own doorstep.

A word of warning: Some younger children may find parts a little frightening. It is perfect for ages 5 – 95. And, OH YES, watch out for dear old Churchill!

Extra information;

For tickets and more information, click on www.alban-arena.co.uk or phone 01727 844488.

The show runs twice daily until January 3rd 2010 (except Christmas and New Years Day)

Prices vary from £15 to £20 (group discounts available).