Imagine Theatre Brings SANTA'S SPARKLY SURPRISE to the Belgrade

Coventry kids had better watch out this Christmas, because Santa Claus is heading back to the Belgrade this year in another exciting adventure from Imagine Theatre.

Conceived as an ideal introduction to the magic of live theatre for younger children, Santa's Sparkly Surprise is Imagine Theatre's fifth festive show specially created for preschoolers, drawing on the expertise of Belgrade panto legend Iain Lauchlan.

Over the last few years, Imagine Theatre's Santa shows have fast become something of a Christmas tradition for Coventry families, each performance ending with a chance to meet Father Christmas and receive an early present. Previous production in the series have included Santa's Dizzy Day, Santa's Rusty Robot, Santa's Polka Dot Pirate and Santa's Mixed-up Martian, all written by Iain Lauchlan.

Best known to local audiences as the writer, director and dame of the Belgrade's ever popular pantomimes, Lauchlan has enjoyed a hugely successful career in the children's entertainment industry, spanning over 40 years. In addition to creating the BAFTA-winning series The Tweenies, he has also worked on a range of well-known television productions, including Playschool, Fingermouse, Playdays. Storytime and Fun Song Factory.

Iain Lauchlan said: "I think it is really important for children to be introduced to theatre at a young age, and even more important that they have a wonderful experience. Really young children cannot be expected to sit still and quiet to watch a show - that is why Santa's Sparkly Surprise is designed to get them involved in what is happening on-stage.

"We encourage them to shout out and join in with the action and get involved with interactive songs. Not only that, they get to meet Santa and receive their first Christmas present of the year - what could be better at that age?"

Based in Coventry, Imagine Theatre specializes in panto and children's theatre, producing its own shows as well as supplying sets for productions across the UK, and works closely with the Belgrade Theatre on its ever-popular pantomimes.

Steve Boden, Managing Director of Imagine Theatre and producer of Santa's Sparkly Surprise, said: "We are delighted to be presenting the fifth in the series of 'Santa' shows this Christmas. Since we began back in 2014 we have had fabulous feedback from families who have taken their children to see the shows.

"These productions are an ideal introduction to theatre for those children who are a little bit too young for the magic of panto. They are only around 35 minutes long which is much more suitable to a young audience and we are combining a Christmas show with a visit to Santa at a fabulous price. But although they are ideal for young children, in my experience, the adults do seem to enjoy them just as much!"

Santa's Sparkly Surprise shows at the Belgrade Theatre from Wednesday 12 until Monday 24 December. Tickets are available to book now by calling the box office on 024 7655 3055, or visiting www.belgrade.co.uk where prices are even cheaper.

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