Christmas for Everyman, woman and child

Welcome to our first guest blog! This month it’s been written by Marc Pantling, Venue Manager at Everyman…

Who is coming to see us this Christmas time? We have food, drink and great movies.

Of course we have the juggernaut that is Star Wars the Last Jedi, which looks like it is going to be our most popular film since we opened. For the kids, we are showing Ferdinand, the animated story of the Bull that just wants love. Also, since I have yet to hear anyone say a bad word about it, I have kept some shows of Paddington 2 on (I really should have started selling marmalade sandwiches).

The surprise hit though is ‘Jumanji’. More of a tribute than a remake to the 1995 original, it really is a lot of fun for all the family; The Rock and Jack Black are on excellent form.

For the traditionalists, I have managed to add in a showing of the all-time classic ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ on Christmas Eve. Tickets are selling fast so make sure you book for that one.

Boxing Day sees the release of the latest Hugh Jackman film The Greatest Showman. Not sure about you, but I am a sucker for a big budget musical. This one is set in the nineteenth century, telling the story of freak shows and circus folk; everything I would hope for!

I have also had a few of you guys asking about Pitch Perfect 3 so I have managed to get that for you as well and we’ll be showing it from 29th December.

Remember we are also open for people to come for lunch, dinner, drinks or just coffee and, if you are looking for those last minute Christmas gifts, we have some excellent gift vouchers that you can pop in and buy anytime.

Hopefully see you all soon!

 

A nativity fit for a Queen!

Visitors to Bell Court will be taking on the roles of Mary, Joseph and Angel Gabriel, not forgetting Bob the musician, during an interactive nativity this week.

The free, family-friendly, event will see members of the public taking on impromptu acting roles to perform in front of Queen Victoria.

Building on the Victorian Christmas Market that will be taking place at the same time in Stratford-upon-Avon, the nativities will be kicking off at 4pm on Friday 8th December and 12.30pm and 4.30pm on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th December, in the Central Square at Bell Court.

Organised by Magic Alley which will be moving to Bell Court in spring next year, members of the public will be guided through their roles and given lines to read, songs to sing and instruments to play.

Dave Matthews, Creative Director of STMO Media Group, owner of Magic Alley, said: “This is a great way for children and grown-up children to get in the Christmas spirit and have a bit of fun. It’s designed for anyone and everyone; no skills required, just the desire to smile. I’m sure Queen Victoria will love the performances – we might even get a giggle from Her Royal Highness. Plus, I’ve heard a rumour that Father Christmas might be popping by to meet the new actors and actresses too.”

Each nativity performance will last for roughly 30 minutes, followed by a meet and greet with Father Christmas and a festive performance from Rozie T Dance Academy.

Additionally, there will also be Christmas carols performed by Snitterfield handbell ringers.

Toby Saggers, Asset Manager at UK & European Investments, the owners of Bell Court, said: “Christmas is all about friends and family coming together and enjoying themselves.  It’s fantastic that we are now able to host events at Bell Court that the Stratford public are able to enjoy.  We hope everyone has a great time at the nativities and wish everyone a lovely Christmas.”

It’s proving to be a great Christmas at Bell Court, with hundreds attending the light switch on last month, and new tenants Farringdon and Forbes, Miller and Cater and All Bar One open in time for the festivities. (All Bar One will be opening on the 14th December).

Earlier this year it was announced that Magic Alley and Seasalt will both be opening at Bell court in spring next year.

Anyone wishing to take part in the interactive nativities simply needs to turn up. No booking is required and the event is free for everyone to take part.