Festive family favourite returns to Snape Maltings

A festive treat for the whole family is promised at Snape Maltings Concert Hall this December when the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company returns with a new production, Magic of Christmas, directed by Suffolk sisters Harriet and Ellena Bacon.

 

Both are graduates in professional musical theatre and have performed across the UK in pantomime and other productions.  They have also choreographed many musicals with the Co-op Juniors.

 

Explains Ellena, ”When we were offered the opportunity to direct Magic of Christmas in an iconic venue like Snape Maltings, we leapt at the chance. It’s a huge show with almost 100 performers and a real sense of festive excitement and magic.”

 

Harriet agrees, “We’re used to working together as choreographers, so stepping up as directors with our professional theatre experience is an exciting prospect.  The sheer range of music and dance style creates opportunities for all our young performers to shine.”

 

Stage magic plays its part too, with comical penguins, high-kicking reindeer, playful santas, high-energy dance and lots of surprises. A moving nativity scene, re-imagined by artistic director Oliver Brett, is a unique celebration of the meaning of Christmas.

 

With stunning projections on a soaring stage set and almost 1,000 costumes, the Co-op Juniors have reinvented their traditional Christmas production.  Musical director Nicholas Sheehan and arranger Emily Bennett have worked with the directors to create a tapestry of musical styles, with traditional Christmas themes woven in with modern numbers.

 

“It’s a family show. so we wanted to offer something for everyone,” says Nicholas Sheehan. “We’ve tried to create that special Christmas spirit in the concert hall, so people leave full of a sense of festive celebration before the special day.”

 

Adds Harriet Bacon, “It’s been a journey of discovery and our cast are so committed and energised to return to Snape with a new production. We can’t wait for people to see it!”

 

Magic of Christmas is twice daily on December 5, 7, 12, 13 & 14, with tickets from just £15.  Book at brittenpearsarts.org or call 01728 687110