Children’s & Family Events Listings

This listing of forthcoming quality children's and family events is based on what we at inspiringyourkids.com are currently aware of. That makes it more limited than we want it to be - but it's a start. With the help of visitors to the site and people staging events, we are committed to expanding and updating this information so that by the start of 2008 it will have become a guide to a significant proportion of the best things taking place for children and families primarily around Ireland, some in Britain, and even futher afield. To help us achieve this aspiration please use the event posting facility if you are involved in developing or promoting an event, or are otherwise aware of one that is not currently listed here.

Entries begin with events that are on in the current month and then continue with events listed on a month by month basis in chronological date order. Within the month order they are listed as follows:-(1) Events in Ireland (listed by County in alphabetical order) (2) Events in Scotland (3) Events in England (4) Events in Wales (5) Events anywhere else in the world!

Once the month an event is on has passed entries are moved into the events archive pages and are available there for reference in reverse chronological order (i.e. the most recently passed appearing first).

Events in Ireland

October 2007

Co.Antrim

Tales of Magic & Mischief
Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn
6 October 2007

Let storyteller Siaran and musician Mike take you on a musical journey of classic tales. You’ll be transported to lands where fairies dance, dragons roar, stepmothers are wicked and women know how to let their hair down!
Accompanied by original and traditional music from Mike, Siaran weaves a succession of classic, favourite tales for all young children to enjoy. Stories include Rapunzel, Rumpelstiltskin and Fairy Dance, a traditional welsh story.Suitable for 4 - 7 year olds. Full details from www.islandartscentre.com

Potted Potter
Lyric Theatre, Belfast
19 - 21 October 2007

(Part of the Belfast Festival at Queens)

All the Potter books in sixty minutes? Watch comic double act Dan and Jeff take on the ultimate challenge, with the help of endless costumes, brilliant songs, ridiculous props, and a generous helping of Hogwarts magic. This fantastically funny hour features all your favourite characters, a special appearance from a very frightening fire-breathing dragon, and even a game of Quidditch involving the audience.
Following sell-out seasons at the Edinburgh festival and in London, this first national tour is a must-see for Potter addicts, and a great introduction to the series for anyone who?s ever wondered what all the fuss is about ? making it ideal entertainment for the whole family. Full details from www.belfastfestival.com

The Flea Pit
Little Pavilion, Botanic Gardens, Belfast
19 - 28 October 2007

(Part of the Belfast Festival at Queens)

Don?t miss this troupe of magnificent mini-beasts (fleas!) that have performed across the USA & Europe, dazzling audiences with incredible feats of mind-reading, weight-lifting, trapeze and high-wire. Witness this incredible show in a unique purpose built miniature theatre, holding just 15 people! Then marvel at a museum of curiosities where your host will introduce a series of ever-revolving attractions and indeed reveal some of the secrets behind the flea circus! Come along and be amazed, amused and delighted by this sensational circus troupe featuring live music, loads of laughs and magic tricks galore!
Cahoots NI, are an innovative Belfast based children?s theatre company. This second show for Belfast Festival at Queen?s ? The Flea Pit ? is an original and quirky new production that will be rolling up to Botanic Gardens with a side-show spectacle full of sensational illusions, perfect for freaky Halloween fun. Dan Gordon will lead small audience groups through a looking glass of weird and wonderful, winding up a miniature, mobile theatre space for presentation of the fantastic Flea Circus. This sensational circus show will be in Belfast for a limited period only where the secrets that astonished your great-grandparents in the hey-day of Victorian traveling side-show will all be revealed! Full details from www.belfastfestival.com

Terrifying Tales and Spooky Stories
The Old Museum Arts Centre
Belfast
27-28 October 2007

Master storyteller Fra Gunn gets you in the mood for the witching season with these spooky one-hour workshops for children.
Witches, wizards, ogres and elves, dungeons and dragons all feature in these interactive storytelling sessions as Fra delves into local folklore to help him spin his web of spooky fun. Sound effects such as rattling bones, laughter and screams as well as musical instruments and props also help to bring these tales of terror to life.
Not for the faint hearted or squeamish - and that goes for the children as well! Terrifying Tales and Spooky Stories promises to be an unmissable Halloween treat for parents and children alike. Full details from www.oldmuseumartscentre.org

Circus Hilarious
The Courtyard Theatre
Newtownabbey, Co.Antrim
29 October 2007

Circus Hilarious (The Circus of Laughter) presents The 007 Tour - a brand new production for 2007 for all the family: Mums, Dads, Grannies, Granddads, kids of all ages – sit back and enjoy the knock-about humour, slapstick, comedy magic and all-round madness of panto and circus favourites. Clive Webb and Danny Adams go one step beyond and romp through the spoof 007 in their own inimitable way, ably assisted by Miss Funnypenny, award winning clown Cousin Timoni.
Join them in another magic moment of lunacy. Also featuring 18 year old illusionist Jonny Marx, the Circus Hilarious Dancers, and the very popular antics of rock band Clownforce, under the eagle eye of ‘Y’.
Contact www.newtownabbey.gov.uk/courtyardtheatre

Co.Armagh

Tommy The Teddy's Halloween Stories
The Market Place
Armagh Theatre and Arts Centre
Armagh City
10-11 October 2007

Storyteller Siaran Brooks tells spooky stories for Halloween. The stories aren't too frightening, though Teddy Bears get frightened easily, so Siaran gears her tales for the under six year olds. Mike comes along with his guitar so that everyone can join in with some seasonal songs with plenty of actions. What's that behind you Mike? It's only Tommy The Teddy stealing the show as usual...Full details from www.marketplacearmagh.com

Co.Cork

Shopping For Shoes
Half Moon Theatre
Cork Opera House
Cork City
9-12 October 2007

Winner of the 2007 The Children’s Award given annually by the Arts Council of England to a writer for young people. A story about passion and fashion & hearts and soles.
Siobhan McClusky is 13-years-old and passionately politically aware. She spends her nights online, chatting to Native American teenagers in Idaho, signing petitions against US conglomerates and protesting against climate change. She also fancies Shaun Holmes…
Shaun is also 13 but passionate about just one thing - shoes. He has over 60 pairs: Nike Air Jordan, Air Max Aggressor, Gazelle, Corduroy Adidas...his collection seems endless. The shoes express who he is and his philosophy is echoed by the Nike logo -JUST DO IT.
A piece of Siobhan’s heart belongs to Shaun but he'd have trouble even recognising her. However, our girl is determined to prove to Shaun that there’s more to life than shoes and with a little bit of planning and some nifty footwork, Siobhan soon helps him discover that a pair of shoes can do so much more than just help a person express themselves. Full details from www.corkoperahouse.ie

Co.Derry

Joseph and The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat
The Millenium Forum
Derry City
8-13 October 2007

Having enjoyed sensational reviews, Bill Kenwright’s production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family musical continues to enjoy huge success across the country with standing ovations at every performance. Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, this magical musical is full of unforgettable songs including Any Dream Will Do, Close Ev’ry Door To Me and One More Angel. Full details from www.millenniumforum.co.uk

Circus Hilarious
The Millenium Forum
Derry City
31 October 2007

Halloween 2007
Derry City
27-31 October 2007

No-one does Hallowe’en better than the city of Derry ~ Londonderry and since 1986 the Banks of the Foyle Hallowe’en Carnival has captured the hearts and imagination of those who live in the city and the thousands that are welcomed each year to participate in the celebrations. With live music, carnival costume colour and a choice of unrivalled family events, this is a festival not to be missed! Full details from www.derrycity.gov.uk/halloween/

Co.Donegall

Otherworlds
An Grianan Theatre
Letterkenny
30 October 2007

Otherworlds is an exciting and innovative circus show, which provides a unique interpretation of ancient celtic mythology. This spectacle leads the audience on a journey from contemporary urban landscape into bright new worlds, where beasts roam and the oceans and skies are ruled by all manner of strange phenomena. Join these intrepid vagabond clowns on their hilarious, ridiculous, scary, and absorbing odyssey as they seek to settle old scores and lay some of their own ghosts to rest. Full details from www.angrianan.com

Co.Down

Hallowe'en Family Festival
Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, Cultra, Holywood, Co.Down
31 October 2007

A variety of activities traditionally associated with the festival of Hallowe'en for children and adults, including apple games, cabbage reading (fortune telling) Hallowe'en craft activities and fancy dress competition. During the half-term break there will be other traditional activities for children to enjoy. Full details from www.uftm.org.uk

Co.Dublin

Minor Matters
The Ark,Temple Bar, Dublin
2 - 3 October 2007

(Part of the Dublin Theatre Festival)
Who is that sleeping in the corner over there? This man has a story to tell: a story about awakening; about wishing; about hoping and about disappointment... Once upon a time there lived a farmer. He ploughed his land and tended his cattle. One Saturday evening this lonely man drove his tractor into town where he met the love of his life and everything was just about perfect. But not quite perfect enough…
Peter Rinderknecht enchanted children at the Family Season in 2004 with the delightful Portofino Ballade. This master storyteller returns with a story that makes fantasy and reality seem so close that you can hardly tell one from the other. Full details from www.ark.ie

'Jack & the Beanstalk’ and
'The Selfish Giant ’
Lambert Puppet Theatre
Monkstown
Co.Dublin
6-28 October 2007

'Jack & the Beanstalk’
Performed by Lambert Puppet Theatre
Help Jack climb the beanstalk and face the giant to save the family farm. In this spectacular & colourful glove puppet production, which requires lots of audience participation.
'The Selfish Giant ’
Performed by Lambert Puppet Theatre
Oscar Wilde's classic tale of the Selfish Giant illustrated with rod puppets and beautifully narrated by Bill Golding.
Full details from www.lambertpuppettheatre.com

Private Peaceful
The Ark,Temple Bar, Dublin
8 - 9 October 2007

(Part of the Dublin Theatre Festival)

Based on the award-winning book by the third UK Children’s Laureate and best-selling author Michael Morpurgo, Private Peaceful relives the life of Private Tommo Peaceful, a young First World War soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn. During the night he looks back at his short but joyful past growing up in rural England: his exciting first days at school; the accident in the forest that killed his father; his adventures with Molly, the love of his life; and the battles and injustices of war that brought him to the front line.
Morpurgo’s reputation in the world of children’s books is unparalleled, having won the 1995 Whitbread Award for The Wreck of the Zanzibar, the 1996 Smarties Book Prize for The Butterfly Lion, and the 2000 Children’s Book Award for Kensuke’s Kingdom. Adapted and directed by Simon Reade. There will be a post-show discussion after the performances on Monday 8 October at 7pm and Tuesday 9 October at 12.15pm. Full details from www.ark.ie

The Giraffe'sJourney
The Ark,Temple Bar, Dublin
11 - 14 October 2007

(Part of the Dublin Theatre Festival)

“Roll up, Roll up, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls. Look with wonder, stare in amazement at one of the rarest sights in the Animal Kingdom. Let me present to you, the one, the only Camelopardalis Giraffe. Just between you and me, to be honest, he might be a bit past his prime, but he’s unique, and very, very special...” Join us for this bizarre and wonderful tale of a giraffe who travelled from the plains of Africa to the heart of France in 1824, and of the poor soul that years later wants to bring the giraffe back home. Inspired by a true story, some might say it's a tall story, but believe us, it's true…Full details from www.ark.ie

Coraline
The Helix
Glasnevin
Dublin
15-19 October 2007

Coraline is a curious only child who loves exploring. When she finds a secret door in her new house, she can't resist the temptation to see what lies behind it. There she discovers a world that is uncannily like her own –but also quite different. She befriends a smart-talking cat, performing rats, and meets counterfeit parents with buttons for eyes, and evil on their minds. Fusing puppetry with atmospheric lighting, music and sound effects, Coraline takes its audience into a dark dream-world of vibrant characters and images exploring themes of true and false love. Essentially a coming of age story, the resolute heroine shows how faithfulness and cleverness can conquer evil. Equally the hand-made puppets and set and their visible means of operation, combined with original music and vibrant lighting, provide a rare opportunity for young people to experience live, the craft and skill of the finest Puppet Theatre. Full details from www.thehelix.ie

Last Call
The Helix
Glasnevin
Dublin
22-26 October 2007

A man is closing up his pub one summer's evening when he hears an intruder. A girl appears, soaked to the skin, suspicious and silent. He is Tom Crean, an Irishman who travelled with Scott and Shackleton to the Antarctic, and who survived against appalling odds. She is a city girl from Tralee, too smart and too poor to be anything but trouble. As the lines between fact and fiction blur we are invited to guess the choices they will make between living and dying and to question what it is in us that attempts the impossible and chooses to live life on the edge? Full details from www.thehelix.ie

Suitcase Kid
The Helix
Glasnevin
Dublin
24-27 October 2007

10 year old Andrea used to live happily with her family at Mulberry Cottage. Andy, Mum, Dad…and Radish, who lives in Andy's pocket and shares all her secrets. Mulberry Cottage was beautiful, with roses round the door and a big old twisted tree in the garden. But then it all went wrong: Mum went to live with Bill and Dad went off with Carrie. And Andy? Well, she was expected to shuttle between the two – living out of a suitcase. Even worse, suddenly, Andy's got five step-brothers and sisters - Bill has Paula and Graham and horrible little Katie and hippy-dippy Carrie has her twins Zen and Crystal.
Jacqueline Wilson's 'The Suitcase Kid' (adapted for stage by Vicky Ireland is a funny and touching story of how Andy comes to terms with this strange new family – and even starts to like them. Well, most of the time. Full details from www.thehelix.ie

Co.Fermanagh

Circus Hilarious
Ardhowen Theatre
Enniskillen
27 October 2007

Co.Galway

Galway International Arts Festival for Children (Baboro)

Galway International Arts Festival for Children (Baboró) is on from 15 to 21 October 2007. Below is a small selection from the wonderfully extensive programme.
For complete programme see www.baboro.ie

Kling Klang
Black Box Theatre
Galway
15-17 October 2007

(Part of Baboró)

Kling Klang is a warm and delightful percussion show about two friends who meet in a garage workshop. They find a way to communicate through the music and the images that evolve around them. Everything on stage becomes an instrument: a bike frame, a water tap, a dustbin and even a carrot.
Baboró Notes
This company brought the lovely Dorthe’s Heart to Baboró in 2005. It was a huge success. Wait till you see this production. It’s ‘Stomp’ for kids.
Further details from www.baboro.ie

The Japanese Garden
Bank of Ireland Theatre
Galway
15-17 October 2007

(Part of Baboró)

This is a magic carpet ride into another world. Step on and you could be in a garden of water lilies. Take another step and dance in a golden meadow. This is a sensory theatrical dance experience where you can discover some of the wonders of a Japanese Garden.
Baboró Notes
Take a journey into a magical place. Live the story and discover why this is one of the most popular touring shows in Europe.
Further details from www.baboro.ie

The Man Who Planted Trees
An Taibhdhearc
Galway
18-20 October 2007

(Part of Baboró)

This is a man with a mission! With his trusty dog at his side, a shepherd struggles against the odds to transform a barren, lonely landscape into a beautiful, vibrant forest. Share the trials and tribulations of the shepherd and his dog, listen to the wind, feel the rain, smell the lavender and the fresh woodland breeze!
A uniquely memorable blend of comedy, puppetry and inspiring storytelling, The Man Who Planted Trees, an adaptation of Jean Giono’s wonderful environmental tale, bowled over children and adults alike in the 2006 Edinburgh Fringe.
Baboró Notes
This is an absolute gem of a show for the whole family. It has great storytelling and a dog that steals the show and your heart.
Further details from www.baboro.ie

Lock Up Those Auld Comedians
Nun's Island Studio
Galway
21 October 2007

(Part of Baboró)

Blue Teapot presents a play devised by the actors with director Miquel Barcelo. The play opens in Ireland in the early 1900s with a troupe of comedians being put on trial before judge and jury for being different and disrupting the peace with the nature of their work. In order to prove their innocence and the right to be different the comedians ask if they can put on one last performance...
Baboró Notes
Blue Teapot actors pull out all the stops in this crazy action-packed comedy.
Further details from www.baboro.ie

Co.Longford

The 10th Annual Aisling Children's Arts Festival
Backstage Theatre,
Farneyhoogan,
Longford
15 to 21 October 2007.

Come and celebrate Aisling’s tenth birthday in a festival programme jam packed with circus, theatre, comedy, music and laughter galore. Here’s a sneak preview of what’s in store.
Storybox take you on a journey into the extraordinary world of the imagination with Jack - a tall tale of Jack’s adventure as he sets off with just a handful of beans and a heart full of courage & “The Pea, the Bean & the Enormous Turnip” the story of a pea that finds a real princess; the biggest turnip in the world and a bean that runs away to make its mark.
Mimirichi’s UKRANIAN CLOWNS are set to take to the stage in Longford, armed and dangerous, for the biggest paper fight ever seen! Get ready to pit your paper fighting skills with these mad bad clowns. Loads of paper will be provided.
Details of all events, including the final exciting night at backstage, will be available in early October.
For complete programme see www.backstage.ie

Co.Offaly

HULLABALOO!
Offaly’s Children’s Arts Festival
Birr Theatre and Arts Centre, Birr, Co. Offaly
30 October- 2 November 2007

Children age 4-12 will have plenty to do this mid-term break during Offaly’s first dedicated Arts Festival for children - Workshops (percussion, clay making, masking making, puppet making), Dance, Film, Family performances and more at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre and numerous venues throughout the town. For complete programme see www.birrtheatre.com

Co.Tipperary

Sleeping Beauty
The Source Arts Centre
Thurles
Tipperary
7 October 2007

A timeless tale for all the family from the internationally renowned puppet theatre company. This is a guaranteed treat for anyone under 10. So convince your mother, grandmother, guardian or next door neighbour to bring you along to Sleeping Beauty’s enchanted tale. There will be large puppets, and all the magic of live theatre – and don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled in case Bosco pops by to say hello!
The Lambert Puppet Theatre is internationally renowned for its many fine performances throughout America and Europe. From its earliest beginning the Lambert family has been involved with RTE, working on the hugely popular series Wanderly Wagon. So for nostalgia and an afternoon of pure theatrical make believe, come and see one of the greatest fairy tales staged by one the best puppet theatre companies. A treat indeed. Further details from www.thesourceartscentre.ie

Co.Tyrone

Coraline
The Alley Arts and Conference Centre
Strabane
22-23 October 2007

Coraline is a 21st century fairy tale which appeals without patronizing, thrills without terrifying and like all myths, operates on all levels. The tale is about a bright and curious child who loves exploring. Finding a secret door in a new house, she can’t resist the temptation to see what lies behind it. In this new world she finds a smart talking cat and performing rats and counterfeit parents with buttons for eyes and evil on their minds. What follows is a dramatic show, fusing puppetry with stunning lighting, music and sound effects.Full details from www.alley-theatre.com

Circus Hilarious
The Burnavon Arts and Cultural Centre
Burn Road
Cookstown
30 October 2007

Co.Wicklow

Man In Half
Mermaid
County Wicklow Arts Centre
Bray
2-3 October 2007

An interactive play for ten year olds and upwards; this is a gripping drama of suspense, terror and humour. A doctor sleeps uneasily in a dingy tenement room, the door barricaded. But not to keep terror out, for the dangerous enemy he is resisting is in the room with him – indeed, the man is trapped inside himself. Inspired by Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr Hyde, this one-man play questions Stevenson's assumption that, in a struggle between good and evil, it is always the evil in us that will triumph. Full details from www.mermaidartscentre.ie

Shopping For Shoes
Mermaid
County Wicklow Arts Centre
Bray
19-20 October 2007

November 2007

Co.Antrim

Oliver Oliver
Grand Opera House
Belfast
13-17 November 2007

The story of Oliver, the little orphan boy, is set in bleakest Victorian England. Audiences will follow his adventures from starvation in the work-house, through pick-pocketing in the backstreets of London, to an unexpected family re-union at the end. This production of the well known show is being staged by St. Mary's Grammar School from Magherafelt.
Perfect for a family treat before Christmas, Oliver! is full of many well-known musical numbers including Pick a Pocket or Two, I'd Do Anything, As Long As He Needs Me, Consider Yourself, Oom-Pah-Pah, It's a Fine Life, Reviewing the Situation and many more...so why not treat yourself and the family! Full details from www.goh.co.uk

Cinemagic World Screen Festival For Young People
Belfast, N. Ireland
16 November –2 December 2007

Action packed film festival for children and young people with over one hundred film screenings including special premieres, international features, documentaries, shorts and foreign language films together with a programme of industry masterclasses and competitions. Details from cinemagic.org.uk

The Emperor's New Clothes
Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn
17 November 2007

This charming and humorous adaptation of the classic tale is told through puppetry, original music and storytelling.
Two swindlers come into town pretending to be master tailors. The vain Emperor summons them to fashion him a set of clothes the like of which has never been seen before.
’Banyan presents a puppet version of ‘The Emperor’s New Clothes’ with deceptive simplicity and easy persuasive humour... the result is a richly colourful, gently witty and eloquently performed piece of theatre. Highly recommended!’Suitable for 3 - 11 year olds. Full details from www.islandartscentre.com

The Merman’s Tale
Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn
17 November 2007

Based on a traditional tale by W.B Yeats.
Fisherman Jack, remembering the stories of mythical Mermen his grandfather told, decides to go on a quest to find one of his own. Take a magical journey with Jack as he travels beneath the sea discovering many wondrous things, and unlocks a secret never before told.
A visual delight told through the use of puppetry, storytelling and music. Suitable for 3 - 9 year olds. Full details from www.islandartscentre.com

The Wizard of Oz
Lyric Theatre
Belfast
24 November 2007 - 12 January 2008

Join Dorothy as she discovers the magical Land of Oz in a story that has touched the hearts of generations. THE WIZARD OF OZ transports audiences to a colourful and spectacular land of flying monkeys, talking animals & trees, witches (good and wicked), magical shoes and tells the unforgettable story of Dorothy, her loyal little dog, Toto, the friends she makes along her journey to meet the wonderful wizard and the home she yearns to return to.
Beautifully staged and featuring all the memorable songs from the Oscar winning film, including Over the Rainbow, Ding Dong! The Witch Is Dead, We’re off to see the Wizard and many more, THE WIZARD OF OZ will be an ozmopolitan show for all the family and a rare opportunity to see one of the greatest musicals of all time live on stage.
Lyric Theatre prides itself on presenting classic tales at Christmas and this year’s production of one of the most beloved stories will be our biggest yet, as a tribute to the final curtain within the Lyric’s current building. Full details from www.lyrictheatre.co.uk

Co.Armagh

Circus Hilarious
The Market Place
Armagh Theatre and Arts Centre
Armagh City
3 November 2007

Co.Cork

Santa and the Penguins
Briery Gap Cultural Centre
Macroom
Co. Cork
30 November 2007

A new Eco Friendly musical christmas show for children by Shay Healy and Michael Scott. As Santa prepares for another busy Christmas, he gets a cry for help. The North Pole is melting and the penguins have nowhere to go.
This spells disaster! - not only for the penguins and the polar bears - but for children everywhere. Without the snow and the special winter sunlight it will be impossible for Santa's elves to keep up with all the toy orders! Santa enlists the aid of the audience and the Penguins to follow the carbon footprints of the villian who has doen this - Ollie Slick - they enlist the help of Jack Frost to avert disaster and bring a big chill to the North Pole. Full details from www.brierygap.com

Co.Derry

The Foyle Film Festival
Derry
23 November - 1 December 2007

During the Foyle Film Festival, Derry's cinemas offer ten days of premières, filmmaking workshops and master classes. The festival was founded in 1987 and started handing out its Light in Motion awards in 1999. The award categories are Best Feature, Best Irish Short, Best International Short, Best Documentary and Best Animation. Please visit the festival website for updates and further details at www.foylefilmfestival.org

Jack & The Beanstalk
The Millenium Forum
Derry City
30 November 2007- 5 January 2008

A gigantic beanstalk, Daisy the cow, magic beans, a goose that lays golden eggs and the nastiest of giants - it's panto time again at the Forum! Telling the story of peasant boy Jack and his attempts to please his impoverished mother and win the hand of Princess Jill, JACK AND THE BEANSTALK remains one of the best-loved pantomimes of all-time. Packed with great song and dance routines, hilarious comedy, dazzling scenes and magical special effects, JACK & THE BEANSTALK is fun for all the family from 4-94! Featuring William Caulfield and a star studded local and Northern Irish cast, this energetic Christmas treat is sure to be a hit with audiences far and wide.Full details from www.millenniumforum.co.uk

Co.Dublin

Honk
The Civic Theatre
Tallaght
Dublin
13-17 November 2007

Honk! is a musical retelling of the Hans Christian Andersen story, The Ugly Duckling. The story features an ugly duckling who discovers his inner beauty by becoming a swan, his tearful mother Ida, his dad, who 'ducks' his responsibilities, a gaggle of comical geese, a sly tomcat who just wants to play with his food, a wisecracking bullfrog, and other such barnyard creatures together with lots of 'fowl' puns that would make Shakespeare blush. Memorable songs include "A Poultry Tale," "Warts and All," "Look at Him," "Play with Your Food," "Now I've Seen you” and "Different”. Full details from www.civictheatre.ie

Great Expectations
Gate Theatre
Dublin
27 November 2007 - 2 February 2008

Bringing to life all the vivid characters of the original and conveying the story with great clarity, atmosphere and theatrical flair, Hugh Leonard’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ most popular novel is both exciting and haunting. This wonderful adaptation of Dickens’ classic love story, which premiered at the Gate in 1995, tells the adventures of the orphaned Pip and the terrifying encounter with an escaped convict that forever changes his life. Turning his back on humble beginnings as a blacksmith’s apprentice, he strives to better himself and become a gentleman unaware of the hidden dangers that await him. Full details from www.gate-theatre.ie

Scrooge The Musical
The Mill Theatre
Dundrum Town Centre
Dublin 14
27 November - 1 December 2007

The Glencullen Musical and Dramatic Society present this fantastic show to ease you into the Christmas season
The group continue their successful run of productions at The Mill with this heart-warming musical extravaganza based on the classic Charles Dickens' tale A Christmas Carol.
Written by Leslie Bricusse and directed by Tom Ronayne, this show promises to be an ideal pre-Christmas treat. The award-winning musical score is guaranteed to entertain as we re-discover the tales of those familiar Dickensian characters including Ebenezer, Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit and those ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future.Full details from www.milltheatre.com

Alice In Wonderland
The Helix
Glasnevin
Dublin
28 November 2007 - 6 January 2008

Curiouser and curiouser, thought Alice, as she tumbled down the rabbit hole. She’d never seen a bottle saying Drink Me before … or a Cat who was nothing but a grin … or a Duchess with a very strange baby indeed. What could it all mean? Come down the rabbit hole with Alice (and the Mad Hatter, the White Rabbit and other friends) and join us in a wonderful, upside-down world where each surprise is bigger – or sometimes smaller – than the last.
Alice in Wonderland at The Helix this Christmas is a hugely imaginative adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale of a young girl who finds herself in an astonishing new world, where some things are like they are at home, but nothing is as it seems. This wonderful world is brought to life by some of Ireland’s leading actors, including Malcolm Adams as the March Hare, Barbara Brennan as the Duchess, Michael James Ford as the White Rabbit, Barry McGovern as the Caterpillar, Clara Simpson as the Queen and Ailish Symons as Alice. Full details from www.thehelix.ie

Co.Offaly

HULLABALOO!
Offaly’s Children’s Arts Festival
Birr Theatre and Arts Centre, Birr, Co. Offaly
30 October- 2 November 2007

Children age 4-12 will have plenty to do this mid-term break during Offaly’s first dedicated Arts Festival for children - Workshops (percussion, clay making, masking making, puppet making), Dance, Film, Family performances and more at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre and numerous venues throughout the town. For complete programme see www.birrtheatre.com

Co.Tipperary

The Nutcracker
The Source Arts Centre
Thurles
Tipperary
4 November 2007

It’s Christmas and Clara receives a Nutcracker doll as a present from her favourite uncle, and the magic begins...
Her brother Fritz breaks it but her uncle mends it for her, and all too soon it’s the end of the party and time for bed. Unable to sleep with the excitement, Clara goes downstairs to get her Nutcracker doll and falls asleep under the Christmas tree. The stroke of midnight sounds and the magic begins! Clara is swept along into a world of mice and soldiers, to the snowflake scene, on to the kingdom of the sweets and the delectable Sugar Plum Fairy. This timeless Christmas classic will enthrall all who see it. Further details from www.thesourceartscentre.ie

Co.Tyrone

The Nutcracker
The Alley Arts and Conference Centre
Strabane Source Arts Centre
2 November 2007

December 2007

Sleeping Beauty
Belfast Waterfront, Belfast
1 December 2007 - 12 January 2008

In a land far, far away the Wicked Fairy has cast a spell on our beautiful princess which only true love’s first kiss can break. Join us as our trainee fairy Nanny McGee along with Dr Watt and the Good Fairies Lily, Rose and Daff O’Dill help the Prince end this evil curse.
Starring Dan Gordon as Nanny McGee along with those giants of the Christmas stage Christina Nelson, Tara Lynne O’Neill and Bronagh Taggart as the Good Fairies. Emma Little as the Wicked Fairy and Bernadette Brown as her twisted assistant. Chris Robinson as Dr Watt and introducing Annemarie Gaillard as Sleeping Beauty.

January 2008

Co.Antrim

Sleeping Beauty
Belfast Waterfront, Belfast
Until 12 January 2008

Events in Scotland

October 2008

Danny, King of the Basement
MacRoberts Arts Centre
Stirling
Scotland
9 October 2007

Danny Carter is a ten year old who’s lost more homes than teeth. Danny moves into a basement flat with his mother, his eighth home (and school) in two years. He meets two of the local kids and makes friends in a morning and best friends in a day. But even Danny’s amazing imagination can’t cope with an unexpected crisis – he gets a real home…Danny, King of the Basement shows how the power of creative thought and good friends can change lives. Full details from macrobert.org

Silly Billy
MacRoberts Arts Centre
Stirling
Scotland
10-11 October 2007

Billy is a bit of a worrier.
He worries about hats… he worries about shoes……
He worries so much he can’t sleep.
Luckily grandma knows what he needs to help him overcome his fears…………. Tutti Frutti productions, in its own unique style, brings this brilliant children’s book alive with the rich colours and sounds of Guatemala. This fabulous production is a visual delight of movement, music and theatre. Full details from macrobert.org

Lazytown Live
Kings Theatre
Glasgow
17-20 October 2007

Welcome to LazyTown Live!, The Show With the Go! The funniest freshest show of the moment, packed with moves, music, fun and a great story, all set in this amazingly colourful, fast paced, upside down world. Stepanie moves to LazyTown and meets a zany mix of people, including the world's laziest super-villain, Robbie Rotten. Fortunately for Stephanie, Sportacus, a superhero who jumps, leaps and flips his way across LazyTown is on hand to help the townsfolk battle Robbie's latest lazy schemes. LazyTown Live! may have the laziest name on Earth, but it's jam-packed with action, energy and a powerful message that will inspire children everywhere.
Full details from www.theambassadors.com/kings

Events in England

October 2008

War Horse
National Theatre, London, England
8 October - 1 December 2007

Suitable for children of 12 and over, this is set to be landmark theatre of epic proportions as the National Theatre adapt Michael Morpurgo's brilliant and moving novel set in the first world war. The production features actors working alongside life sized puppets created by the internationally respected Handspring Puppet Company as the tale unfolds of young Albert's horse Joey bought by the cavalry and shipped to France where fate has him serve on both sides. Although too young to enlist, Albert decides to go looking for his equine friend and bring him home. Details from nationaltheatre.org.uk

London International Film Festival
London, England
October 17 - December 1 2007

Within this massive extravaganza organised annually by the British Film Institute are a series of distinct programme strands dedicated to children, young people and their families. During the late October half term break there are a series of animation workshops designed for family members to work together on a project based on the film 'Roberto The Insect Architect', a script writing skills workshop for children of all ages and an opportunity for young people to have their own film making efforts professionally critiqued. Additionally there is a programme of screenings of family films. Full details from lff.org.uk

The Gruffalo's Child
Preston Guildhall & Charter Theatre, Preston, Lancashire, England
October 18 - 20 2007

Children between 4 - 7 will delight in this Tall Stories production as they bring vividly to life Julia Donaldson and Axel Sheffler’s award winning picture book sequel to the original Gruffalo story with their truly beguiling musical adaptation. While the Gruffalo warns that nobody should set foot in the deep dark wood the Gruffalo's child ignores her father's advice and steps out into the snow - after all the Big Bad Mouse doesn't really exist....does he? Full details from prestonguildhall.com

Feel The Force
V&A Museum Of Childhood, London
Until Nov 11 2007

Exhibition for children and their families exploring the invisible forces of nature. Aimed at providing those attending with insights into how these affect every moment of their lives, exhibits include an anti-gravity wheel, a gyro cycle, a black hole and a magnetic pendulum. Full details from vam.ac.uk/moc

Play + Soft
V&A Museum Of Childhood, London, England
Until October 28 2007

Exhibition of Italian soft furnishings for children which 'gives visitors the opportunity to use and play with the equipment' as well as providing information on the research which gave rise to its creation. Further information from vam.ac.uk/moc

Around The World In Eighty Days
Theatre By The Lake, Keswick, Cumbria, England
Until November 2 2007

This action packed musical adaptation of Jules Verne's novel by Phil Willmott is suitable for children of 5+ and their families, and sees Philieas Fogg aim to circumnavigate the world in eighty days while the arch villain Captain Fix aims to ensure that he fails the challenge. Full details from theatrebythelake.co.uk

Dr Who - Up Close
The Museum Of Science & Industry, Manchester, England
Until November 5 2007

The largest Doctor Who exhibition in the UK affords children, young people and their families the opportunity to get up-close to actual props, costumes and monsters from the hit BBC programme, including the Empress of Racnoss from the Christmas Special 'The Runaway Bride'. The exhibition coincides with the third series starring David Tennant and Freema Agyeman and will feature exciting new items from the latest programmes once they have been seen on TV. Full details from msim.org.uk

Alice Through The Looking Glass
@ Bristol, Bristol, England
Until 30 October 2007

In this exhibition children get to explore issues relating to perception and illusion through the sixty strong hands on exhibits which draw on characters and storylines from 'Alice In Wonderland' and 'Through The Looking Glass'. Full details can be obtained from at-bristol.org.uk

The Children's War
Imperial War Museum, London, England
Until March 1 2008

This major exhibition examines and explores the impact on Britain of the second world war through the eyes of the children who lived through it. Taking a child’s perspective on such topics as evacuation, air raids, rationing and the blackout, all aspects of the impact on children living in Britain at the time of this most global of conflicts are illustrated through original letters, diaries, artefacts, photographs and oral recordings. Full details from iwm.org.uk

Myths, Legends & Heros
Dudley Museum & Art Gallery, Dudley, England
Until March 31 2008

Major exhibition targeting children using graphics, theatrical sets, artefacts and hands on exhibits to look at the world of the Ancient Greeks and the influence their culture still has upon us today. Visit a reconstructed Greek temple and examine a wide spectrum of material from coins to pottery that has been provided by a range of museums from around the British isles. Full details from dudley.gov.uk

Ice Station Antarctica
Natural History Museum, London, England
Until April 20 2008

This family orientated exhibition has been put together in conjunction with the British Antarctic Survey and represents one of the highlights of the International Polar Year. In Ice Station Antarctica children are challenged to brave freezing temperatures, 24-hour darkness, a scary snowmobile ride and a dive under the sea. There's Antarctica wildlife to meet and the chance to experience some of the extreme nature of the continent and explore the skills it takes to work in, and care for, this frozen frontier. Full details from nhm.ac.uk

The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army
British Museum, London
Until 6 April 2008

The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army explores one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the twentieth century, giving an insight into China’s First Emperor, Qin Shihuangdi, and his legacy.
The exhibition includes a number of the world-famous terracotta warriors from Xi'an, China, which were buried alongside the First Emperor in readiness for the afterlife, as well as some of the most striking recent discoveries made on the site. In introducing the idea of a unified state and effectively creating
China in 221 BC, the First Emperor of Qin created what is today the
oldest surviving political entity in the world. How that state has survived, developed and is viewed today is explored through events,
lectures and debates around the exhibition. Details from www.thebritishmuseum.ac.uk