Light up your life with Iluminate!

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Lights, magic and winter wonder: three magical Illuminate trails invite you to step into the sparkle this season

This winter, three dazzling light experiences are transforming some of our beloved locations into glowing festive wonderlands. 

Illuminate Oxfordshire, Illuminate Reading and Illuminate Guildford each offer something different, whether you’re looking for a family evening out, a romantic wander or simply a dose of seasonal sparkle. 

✨ Illuminate Oxfordshire runs at Millets Farm near Abingdon until 4th January (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, new year’s eve & new year’s day) 
 

The trail takes about 60–80 minutes to complete, meandering through glowing installations, illuminated woodland and interactive displays that delight little ones and adults alike. Your walk ends in the Alpine Village, where you can warm up with hot food, mulled drinks, toasted marshmallows, sweet treats and traditional festive games. 

Tickets must be pre-booked, and weekend dates are selling out fast, with many Saturday and Sunday sessions already close to full. Visit illuminateoxfordshire.co.uk 

✨ Illuminate Reading runs at Forbury Gardens & Abbey Ruins until 4th January (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, new year’s eve & new year’s day) 
 

Illuminate Reading offers a shorter, beautifully atmospheric trail in the heart of the town. 

This 30–50 minute experience winds through the historic grounds of Forbury Gardens and the Abbey Ruins, blending soft light, colour washes and artistic projections to showcase the site’s heritage in a magical new way. Halfway round you’ll reach a mini Alpine Village, serving hot food, festive drinks and sweet treats: the perfect pit stop before completing the trail. With its central location, this one is ideal for after-school trips or pairing with dinner in town. 

Visit illuminatereading.co.uk 

✨ Illuminate Guildford runs at Guildford Castle until 4th January (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, new year’s eve & new year’s day) 
Returning to the iconic Guildford Castle grounds, Illuminate Guildford unveils a completely refreshed route for the new season. Expect reimagined installations, glowing castle walls, playful light sculptures and an enchanting wander through the landscaped gardens. 

This one is particularly photogenic — perfect for families, date nights or meeting friends for a pre-Christmas catch-up. Visit illuminateguildford.co.uk 

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Wooburn Singers celebrate festive classics

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Don’t miss the Wooburn Singers’ gloriously joyful and festive concert at 7.30pm on Saturday, 20th December, at the beautiful St Mary and All Saints Church in Beaconsfield

Wooburn Singers, founded in 1967 by the late Richard Hickox, have earned a reputation as one of the south’s leading amateur mixed voice choirs. 

The 60-strong choir performs a wide and varied repertoire, giving four concerts a year in the south Bucks area. They also host Come & Sing days twice a year, open to all choral singers, where a major work of the choral repertoire is studied in depth and performed for family and friends. 

This concert programme centres around two exquisite masterpieces from the heart of the English choral tradition. Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Christmas Carols is a moving, single-movement setting interweaving beautiful English folk carols, including The Truth Sent From Above, evoking a deep sense of tradition and Christmas wonder. 

The second work, In Terra Pax, subtitled by Gerald Finzi as a “Christmas Scene… the Nativity becomes a vision seen by a wanderer on a dark and frosty Christmas Eve in our own familiar landscape,” features soprano and baritone soloists. The music beautifully juxtaposes the familiar Biblical account (St Luke’s Gospel) with the evocative poetry of Robert Bridges, concluding with Christmas music for choir and audience alike. 

Tickets are £22pp, with students admitted free, and are available via TicketSource, by calling 07739 184258, from choir members, or on the door if not sold out beforehand. For more information, visit wooburnsingers.org.uk 

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Say boo to your bum

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Elizabeth Hadley wants you to feel good in your underwear in more ways than one as she explains with her new sustainable lingerie range Bumboo

Like many of us Elizabeth Hadley took up a new hobby during lockdown and found that it soon became a passion which changed her life. 

She had always loved the idea of making her own clothes and having found an old sewing machine in the loft began experimenting with patterns and fabrics and found she soon fell in love with the creative process, making something from scratch, turning it into something with purpose. 

And that ‘something with purpose’ has led her to Bumboo, a sustainable lingerie range, which focuses on comfort, colour and conscience.  

Elizabeth says: “The more I explored sewing, the more curious I became about fabric production and the impact of fast fashion. The environmental cost of traditional materials and mass production was clearly evident. My small hobby became more pronounced when I found myself at the live auditions for the 2025 Great British Sewing Bee – what an experience!” 

With a background in biochemisty and biotechnology she was researching how bio-based materials could be transformed into useful products – and “that’s when ideas began to align”.  

“I came across new research on a next-generation technique for converting bamboo fibres into high-quality fabrics, and it immediately sparked my interest,” she explains. “This promising solution was the perfect foundation for what I was hoping to create: something that not only felt and looked good, but also did good and was grounded in science. From that point on, sustainability became central to every decision for the evolving brand – from fibres and dyes to packaging and factory partnerships.  

“Looking back, it’s amusing to realise what began as a hobby from academia actually brought me full-circle to my original scientific interests!” 

Made from bamboo lyocell, a soft, breathable and responsible fabric, the collection showcases four carefully designed styles, made in eight different patterned designs, some of which are hand painted. 

Elizabeth’s commitment to ‘change’ doesn’t end there. She is proud that Bumboo is size inclusive and body positive, grounded in sustainability – “proof that ethics and aesthetics can joyously exist”. Celebrating diversity, she adds: “Underwear should be the most comfortable thing you put on, not something that makes you self-conscious. At Bumboo, we’re focused on creating styles that fit real bodies, move with you, and make you feel good as you are.” 

Her ultimate goal is to make Bumboo a trusted and recognised name in sustainable clothing. See for yourself at bumboolingerie.com 

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Raise a glass to local flavours

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Explore Oxfordshire’s finest breweries, distilleries and vineyards this festive season

May I raise a toast? Please join me in raising a glass to our local alcohol producers! The region’s brilliant breweries, distilleries and vineyards are clinking glasses to another great year of home-grown flavour. 

From hop-heavy ales to Christmas gins and crisp local ciders, here’s our merry meander through the area’s most spirited producers — all within cork-popping distance. 

Tap Social Movement is a multi-award-winning social enterprise brewery, bakery, and hospitality organisation that provides training and employment for people from prison. To date, the team have created more than 100,000 hours of fairly paid employment for prison-leavers. Tap Social recently became the first Oxford brewery to distribute its beers in Waitrose across the UK — 228 stores in all. Now available nationwide are Tap Social’s best-selling Time Better Spent (5.1% juicy IPA) and Home and Dry (4.2% hazy pale ale). The Jobsworth (3.4% session pale ale) and Time Better Spent also earned stars at the Great Taste Awards 2025. The Xmas Beer Bash (2–11pm, Saturday 13th December) at the flagship taproom on the Curtis Industrial Estate in Botley will celebrate local guest breweries including BMAN Brewery, Siren Craft Brew, Elusive Brewing, and Indie Rabble Brewing. And a quick mention for Proof Social Bakehouse & Café in Kennington, where there’s another free Late Bakes night on 19th December, with live music, seasonal bakes, and a full bar. Visit tapsocialmovement.com 

If you haven’t tried SOX Brewery yet, keep an eye out — the Ipsden brewery and taproom is one of Oxfordshire’s rising stars, combining traditional techniques with a playful, modern twist. Visit soxbrewery.co.uk for more, including their crowdfunder. 

For something steeped in history, head north to Hook Norton Brewery, whose iconic tower, family heritage, and award-winning ales make them a county treasure. Their brewery tours are an excellent outing that ends, naturally, with a pint by the fire; hooky.co.uk 

Over in Kidlington, Little Ox Brew Co keeps things bright and flavourful with a line-up of modern, easy-drinking beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich, wintry stouts; littleoxbrewery.co.uk. And don’t miss Woodstock Brewery, quietly building a loyal local following with well-balanced beers that put craftsmanship first; woodstockbrewery.co.uk 

In Abingdon, Loose Cannon Brewery proves there’s nothing “loose” about their craft — except maybe the laughter that comes with sharing a pint. Their seasonal specials are always worth a try. Pop into their lively taproom for a festive pint or two; loosecannonbrewery.com. Other breweries worth celebrating include Rebellion Beer Co in Marlow and Vale Brewery near Thame. 

If gin is your thing, the Chalgrove Artisan Distillery team craft beautifully balanced gins full of local character, ideal for a classic G&T under the fairy lights; chalgroveartisandistillery.com. Abingdon Distillery is the talk of the town, turning out small-batch spirits that blend science, art, and flavour; abingdondistillery.com. Up in Bicester, Sky Wave Gin is flying high — their award-winning range has put them on the map, with bottles as pretty as the drinks inside; skywavegin.com 

The Cotswolds Distillery is a haven for lovers of both gin and whisky, with a picture-perfect setting to match; cotswoldsdistillery.com. And nearby Wood Bros Distilling Co adds a rustic, farm-to-glass charm to the mix — a family-run operation distilling premium vodka, gin, and whisky straight from homegrown grain; woodbrosdistilling.com 

Did you know Oxfordshire is home to some of England’s oldest vineyards? Hendred Vineyard has been producing wine since the 1970s, and its crisp whites and rosés are the perfect match for festive food; hendredvineyard.co.uk. Not far away, Brightwell Vineyard continues to build its reputation with award-winning still and sparkling wines that prove English vineyards can stand tall among their continental cousins; brightwellvineyard.co.uk 

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Doctor led aesthetics clinic

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DR. ADNAN ZAMAN GMC registered GP offering aesthetic treatments for natural, hollistic wellness

Elite Health Clinic offers the below:

  • Botox
  • Dermal filler
  • Skin booster
  • IV vitamin drips

Check out more info below:

contact@elitehealthclinic.co.uk
phone 07549920716
Serenity Holistic Therapies, Goodwood Way, Newbury RG14 7RT

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Sly Dog Pure Fire: A Fiery Limited-Edition Winter Cocktail

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Louis Goddard-Watts, co-founder of Sly Dog and Ginger Wing’s Jack Blumenthal have joined forces to bring you a fiery limited-edition winter cocktail.

What Makes the Sly Dog Pure Fire Cocktail Special?

Sly Dog Rum is known for its adventurous, multi-award-winning flavours. Ginger Wings is known for fearless spice. So it’s no surprise that their collaboration packs a punch. Pure Fire starts with Sly Dog’s signature Spiced ’n’ Stormy and blends it with Ginger Wings’ famous heat.

The result? A warming cocktail filled with toasted spice, candied ginger, and a peppery kick that sneaks up on you. It’s bold, fiery, and seriously addictive — we’ve tried it, and we’re big fans.

How the Pure Fire

Partnership Was Born

The collaboration grew from friendship. Louis Goddard-Watts and Jack Blumenthal first joined forces at Marlow’s mighty Pub in the Park this summer. The energy was high (and yes, Dizzee absolutely smashed it). Because the partnership felt natural, they decided to bottle that festival magic into a ready-to-drink cocktail designed to bring people together all winter long.

Where to Buy Sly Dog Pure Fire

You can grab Sly Dog Pure Fire at Ginger Wings Marlow or Tap Tavern in Richmond. If you prefer shopping online, head to slydog.co.uk — Pure Fire costs £3 per 200ml can. Even better, customers ordering Sly Dog Spiced Rum or Stoned Fruit will get a free can of Pure Fire, making it the perfect time to stock up.

Why Sly Dog Pure Fire Belongs in Your Winter Plans

Whether you’re warming up after a chilly Thames walk, hosting festive drinks, or planning a spicy winter treat, Pure Fire brings heat, humour, and a little Marlow magic. It proves that rum, spice, and local creativity can make the season brighter — and definitely hotter.

www.instagram.com/slydogrum/ @slydogrum

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A Nutty New Take on a Christmas Classic

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Creation Theatre’s The Nutcracker promises music, magic, and mischief in Oxford this festive season

Step Into the Creation Theatre Nutcracker

This Christmas, Oxford’s Creation Theatre invites you into a world of twinkling lights, ticking clocks, and toys that might spring to life. Their brand-new production of the Creation Theatre Nutcracker runs from 29 November 2025 to 3 January 2026 at The North Wall.

Although audiences often expect a ballet, this adaptation chooses a fresh theatrical approach. You can look forward to lively dancing, vibrant live music, and playful humour that keeps the story bright and surprising.

A Heartfelt Nutcracker Adventure

The adventure follows Marie, who leaves her family’s cosy parlour and journeys into the sparkling Land of Sweets. Along the way, she faces the mischievous Mouse King, meets memorable characters, and discovers courage and kindness.

A new score by Patrick Stockbridge adds extra sparkle. His toe-tapping music lifts each scene and deepens the festive atmosphere.

Creation Theatre explains, “We wanted to capture the story’s sense of surprise and imagination. There’s plenty of heart, humour, and a little bit of magic.”

Why the Creation Theatre Nutcracker Stands Out

Creation Theatre has become known for bold, surprising retellings of classic stories. Their previous Christmas shows — Hansel & Grettel, A Christmas Carol, and Animal Farm — all earned glowing reviews.

  • “The hot ticket in town… packed with drama, comedy and show-stopping musical numbers,” wrote Muddy Stilettos of Hansel & Grettel (2024).
  • “As fun, edgy and unique as ever,” added Ox in a Box for A Christmas Carol (2023).

Thanks to this creative spirit, the Creation Theatre Nutcracker promises a joyful, magical experience for families and theatre lovers alike.

Oxford’s Christmas Tradition

This Nutcracker offers laughter, warmth, and a sense of wonder — everything a Christmas show should have. In Oxford, it simply isn’t Christmas until you’ve seen a Creation Theatre show.

🎟️ Book now at creationtheatre.co.uk

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Sephora Oxford: What Beauty Fans Need to Know

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Sephora UK MD Sarah Boyd Reveals Favourite Brands and Winter Beauty Trends

Sephora Oxford Launch: A Beauty Playground

As I reached the till with my shiny new purchases (thanks, Gabrielle, for the guidance!), I felt amazed by all the beauty possibilities at the Sephora Oxford launch. I wasn’t alone. The crowd of beauty fans at the event shared my excitement. Moreover, even mature shoppers like myself understand the thrill of trying a new product or refreshing a look. Perfectly shaped brows, cheeks kissed with Fazit freckles, or a swipe of shimmer can genuinely feel life-changing.

Exploring the Sephora Oxford Launch

Stepping into Sephora Oxford is like entering a playground for beauty lovers. Everything you could dream of adding to your vanity is within reach. Moreover, Gabi and the team made sure every purchase was perfect and the experience unforgettable. In addition, the store layout helps you explore cult favourites, exclusive brands, and seasonal launches.

Choosing Favourite Brands at the Sephora Oxford Launch

At one point, I was asked to name my favourite brands. I was stumped—it’s almost like asking someone their religion. However, Sarah Boyd, Managing Director of Sephora UK, understands this perfectly. Even after 30 years in the beauty industry, she admits she struggles to pick favourites. “I love the Elemis cleansing bar,” she says. “I rotate between different serums, some from Allies of Skin, depending on what my skin needs.”

Interiors and exteriors-Westgate-Oxford

Why the Sephora Oxford Launch Is Perfect for Oxford Shoppers

The excitement in Oxford is palpable. This is Sephora’s 12th UK store and its final opening of the year. Sarah explains why Oxford was ideal: “The city has a vibrant mix of locals, students, and tourists. It’s perfect for our brand. We’ve wanted to be here for a long time, and the community response on social media has been incredible.”

In addition, the store spans 3,919 square feet and offers the full Sephora Oxford launch experience. It features cult beauty favourites, exclusive Only at Sephora brands such as Haus Labs by Lady Gaga, Tower 28, and INNBeauty Project, along with personalised consultations, gift wrapping, and the MySephora loyalty programme.

Beauty Trends Revealed at the Sephora Oxford Launch

Sarah highlighted the rise of Asian beauty beyond K‑Beauty and J‑Beauty. “Brands like Tatcha are flying,” she notes. In skincare, she adds, we see two main directions: highly effective medical-style formulas and clean, green, playful ranges. Also, make-up is bold, colourful, and festive. Fragrance trends embrace gourmand layers and niche, expressive scents.

What Makes the Sephora Oxford Launch Special

For Sarah, the key difference is people: “Our teams create the magic in-store, supported by e-commerce and loyalty programmes.” Therefore, for shoppers in Oxford, the in-store experience at the Sephora Oxford launch is unmistakable.

Looking Ahead After the Sephora Oxford Launch

Sephora UK has more openings planned, including a store in Northern Ireland in February. In addition, Sarah emphasises, “We want to bring Sephora experiences to communities everywhere.” As a result, the energy at the Sephora Oxford launch shows that demand for Sephora in the UK is only growing. For more updates on UK store openings

https://www.westgateoxford.co.uk/en/shop-listing/sephora

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Bear magic! Crazy Bear Christmas Cabaret

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Book in for glamour, glitz and festive spectacle at The Crazy Bear in Stadhampton

Would you like to step into a world of glitz, glamour and festive mischief? The Crazy Bear Stadhampton is once again throwing its legendary Christmas Cabaret Parties, and they’re more spectacular than ever. This winter, the countryside hideaway in Oxfordshire will sparkle with sequins, song, aerial thrills and late-night dancing across a string of dazzling dates.  

 
Between 7pm & 10pm, guests are treated to world-class performances; think West End-level artists, burlesque, aerialists, samba dancers and more. After the cabaret, the house DJ takes over and keeps the party going until 1am.  

Included in the evening is a decadent English & Thai buffet, setting the tone for a celebratory night of festive fun and indulgent entertainment. With themes of drama, decadence and surprise, the Crazy Bear experience is about as far from ordinary as Christmas gets. 

The cabaret is led by a rotating cast of show-stopping hosts: 

  • Darren Charles: a West End star who brings wit, glamour and energy.  
  • Dee Riley; a multi-award-winning magician and master of ceremonies, adding theatrical sparkle.  
  • Ruby St James; sultry songstress and cabaret showgirl, channelling Old Hollywood in style.  

They’re joined by a lineup of standout singers: 

  • Moni Tivony; a soulful powerhouse with a voice that spans gospel to pop.  
  • Simone Kaye; a charismatic vocalist known from The Voice and I Can See Your Voice.  
  • Jermain Jackman; The Voice UK winner, delivering vintage soul with a modern twist. The stage also comes alive with burlesque and aerial performances, captivating dancers such as Serafina, Fallon Dee and Didi Derriere, and gravity-defying aerialist Matthew Smith elevate the evening into a full-on spectacle.  

 
Dates for the Christmas Cabaret nights are: Friday 28th & Saturday, 29th November, and, for December: Thursday 4th, Friday 5th, Wednesday 10th, Thursday 11th (limited availability), Friday 12th, Thursday 18th, Friday 19th & Saturday 20th (limited availability). 

Tickets start from £79.50pp, and you’ll want to dress to impress; this is an adults-only night of sparkle, elegance and joy.  

Book your spot now before the sold-out nights vanish. This is the kind of Christmas escapade that feels like stepping into a totally different (and fabulously fun) world. 

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Once upon a time…

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It’s time to journey to panto land again where all your favourite heroes and villains are doing battle amid songs and slapstick once more

Love them or loathe them, pantos are part of the festive season as much as turkey and tinsel. Take your seats for this year’s shows at theatres and village halls. Altogether now, “He’s behind you…” 

A tale as old as time comes to the Yvonne Arnaud this festive season with Beauty and the Beast packed with spectacular songs, show-stopping dancing and plenty of magic. Book before time runs out at yvonne-arnaud.co.uk/whats-on/beauty-and-the-beast 

Will your wishes come true at Camberley Theatre with the help of Aladdin? Can he save the day as he battles with evil sorcerer Abanazar who will stop at nothing to get his hands on the magic lamp? Join the adventure, with 3D effects, from Dec 4th-31st. Book at camberleytheatre.co.uk/events/aladdin 

Boo and hiss at Birds of a Feather star Lesley Joseph in the fairest panto in the land Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at New Victoria Theatre, Woking. Don’t miss the fun, Dec 5th-Jan 4th. Tickets at atgtickets.com/venues/new-victoria-theatre 

Take the yellow brick road to the Emerald City with the award-winning Bridges Musical Theatre for The Wizard of Oz. Join Dorothy and Toto, the Tin Man, the Lion & the Scarecrow as they do battle with the Wicked Witch on their way to meet the Great Oz. Chertsey Hall. Dec 16th & 18th-20th. Support local talent and grab your tickets at ticketsource.co.uk/bridges-musical-theatre 

WAOS Musical Theatre are also taking you on a journey to meet The Wizard of Oz complete with Dorothy and friends, Munchkins and a live orchestra at Rhoda McGaw Theatre where you’ll find there’s no place like home. Dec 2nd-6th. Tickets at atgtickets.com/shows/waos-musical-theatre-presents-the-wizard-of-oz/rhoda-mcgaw-theatre-woking/ 

Hi ho, hi ho, it’s off to SHADES we go for Snow White and the Seven Dwarves at The Arbuthnot Hall, Shamley Green, Jan 29th-31st. Join the merry band as they try to thwart the evil queen and restore the kingdom. See shamleygreenshades.co.uk for more. 

Ripley Amateur Theatre Society are bringing the traditional tale of Cinderella, her Ugly Sisters, Prince Charming, the Fairy Godmother, Buttons and more larger than life characters to Ripley Village Hall, Dec 3rd-6th. Visit rats.littleboxoffice.com/browse 

Can heroine Cleo, a street urchin named Niles, Dame Donna Kebab and the village idiot, Archie Ologist stand up to the Evil Pharaoh, Roche, and break the Curse of the Mummy? Find out in Thorpe Players production where ancient Egypt gets the panto treatment in A Panto between the Pyramids. Enjoy this original show at Thorpe Village Hall, Dec 3rd-6th. Please visit thorpeplayers.co.uk to book tickets. 

You shall go to the ball at Godalming Borough Hall with Godalming Panto’s production of Cinderella. Packed with spectacular songs, dance, colourful costumes and fun and laughter from Dec 13th-28th. To book tickets please visit godalmingpanto.com 

Head to Compton Little Theatre in Guildford for their fun-filled tale of magic beans with Jack and the Beanstalk, Jan 15th-17th. More details at comptonlittletheatre.org.uk 

Godalming Theatre Group bring dazzling acrobatics, laugh out loud comedy, larger-than-life performances, hilarious audience participation, and a whole lot of circus magic with Goldilocks and her three furry friends at Prior’s Field Theatre, Dec 17th-21st. Book at gtguk.com 

You’ll have a merry old time with Pirbright Players production of Robin Hood at Lord Pirbright’s Hall. Join the hero and his merry men as they steal from the rich to give to the poor. Jan 24th & 25th. Tickets & more at pirbrightplayers.spanglefish.org 

Join Runnymede Drama Group for a seasonal celebration of songs, comedy, dance and drama with traditional carols, contemporary Christmas songs, classical drama, modern day sketches and some original pieces at The Riverhouse Barn, Walton-upon-Thames, Dec 10th-13th. Visit riverhousebarn.co.uk for tickets. 

Rapunzel is getting ready to let down her hair at Lancaster Hall, Send with Send Amateur Dramatic Society on Nov 28th & 29th and Dec 5th & 6th. Tickets at sads-drama.org 

There’s a giant adventure full of fee-fi-fo fun at Byfleet Village Hall on Jan 8th-10th with Byfleet Players’ Jack and the Beanstalk. To buy tickets see thebyfleetplayers.co.uk 

Brightlight Theatre have swapped panto for whodunnit with Almost Holmes, The Case of the Vanishing Violinist. Cue missing musicians, secret passageways, stolen jewels and perilous chases in this tale with a twist. As with all Brightlight shows, at least 10 per cent of ticket sales go to local cancer charity KatCanDo. Dec 12th & 13th, St Peter’s Church Hall, Frimley. Visit brightlight-theatre.co.uk for tickets. 

Santa’s on his Sleigh at G Live or at least he would be if he hadn’t just found out it had broken down. Can you help fix it? This interactive show features on screen virtual little helper, Head Elf Justy played by CBBC favourite Justin Fletcher. Dec 13th, 14th & 19th-24th. 

A fearsome whale, an abandoned mine and herds of goats all star in The Snowsmith at Farnham Maltings. Inventor Eira is trying to unite the grumpy town of Thawmor and answer the big question: will it snow this Christmas? Find out from Dec 13th-24th. Book at farnhammaltings.com/events/the-snowsmith 

The Quince Players invite you to attend the royal ball from Jan 15th-24th with their twist on panto favourite - Cinderella! Go to the ball, gladrags optional, at Cordes Hall, Sunninghill. Quinceplayers.com for tickets. 

Join the cast of Aladdin at The Anvil, Basingstoke, for a brand-new panto packed full of side-splitting comedy, exotic settings, dazzling special effects, plenty of slapstick and much-loved routines. Book your tickets now for the exciting story of a boy, a lamp, and a genie. Boo the baddies, cheer the goodies, and go on the most magical adventure at The Anvil, Dec 11th-Jan 4th. Book at anvilarts.org.uk 

Get ready for the purrr-fect swashbuckling Christmas adventure with Puss in Boots at Theatre Royal Winchester from Nov 29th-Jan 4th. Life is tough for Colin the poor Miller’s son, no money, no job and no chance of impressing the beautiful princess. It’s just him and his faithful cat, Puss. However, Puss is no ordinary feline and soon turns Colin from zero to hero and adventures begin. Full of paw-some gags, original songs and loads of audience participation, it’s going to be meow-gic! Tickets at theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk/whats-on/puss-boots 

Medstead Players present their take on the classic Snow White with a script written by two of their members on Dec 5th & 6th at Medstead Village Hall. Tickets at medsteadplayers.co.uk or text 07709 553804. 

Get ready for a beast of a panto with Holybourne Theatre in January & February, selected dates, when they bring Belle to the stage in Beauty and the Beast. Full of all the ever-popular panto ingredients – spectacular songs, dazzling dances, laugh out loud jokes and plenty of audience participation. Dates, details and ticket info at holybournetheatre.co.uk/calendar 

Join Jack as he climbs the beanstalk to the land above the clouds with Winton Players to fight the Giant and save the Princess. Expect silliness and songs, Daisy the cow and more panto puns than you could throw a handful of beans at! Expect udder silliness and moo-sical madness galore! The Festival Hall, Petersfield on Jan 9th-17th. Tickets from wintonplayers.co.uk, thefestivalhall.co.uk or from the hall in person. 

Haslemere Thespians will be hoping to make wishes come true at Haslemere Hall with the magical family pantomime Aladdin, Jan 16th-18th & 23rd-25th. Details &tickets at haslemerethespians.co.uk 

Follow Dick Whittington as he journeys to London to seek his fortune, guided by his trusty cat and the promise that the streets are paved with gold. Join the Phoenix Players for this magical laugh out loud adventure, Jan 15th-17th & 22nd-24th. Book at phoenixarts.co.uk 

If pantos are not your thing then forget about the turkey and the tree for a while and take your seat for Hook Players’ Suite Surrender, Dec 4th-6th. It’s 1942, and two of Hollywood’s biggest divas have descended upon the luxurious Palm Beach Royale Hotel – assistants, luggage, and legendary feud with one another in tow. Everything seems to be in order for their wartime performance … that is, until they are somehow assigned to the same suite. Mistaken identities, overblown egos, double entendres, and a lap dog named Mr Boodles round out this hilarious riot of a love note to the classic farces of the 30s and 40s. Please see hookplayers.co.uk for tickets. 

After all the pantos, you may be in need of an antidote so head to Blackwater and Hawley Memorial Hall for Hart Players new year offering. Long standing rivalries, a celebrity judge, and unusual ingredients come together to deliver a slice of intrigue in The Great British Bump-Off, a comedy murder mystery set in the bake-off tent at the village fete. Feb 6th & 7th and 12th-14th. See hartplayers.co.uk/next-production1 for tickets. 

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