Sleeping Beauty at Storyhouse
Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor
This December, Storyhouse has pulled out all the festive stops. With a packed seasonal programme of top-notch performance, crafting workshops, family shows and film screenings, there’s certainly enough happening in Chester to give Father Christmas’ reindeer a run for their money.
At the top of the bill, and following the huge success of Cinderella last year, is the Christmas 2024 production of Sleeping Beauty. The timeless tale is given a Storyhouse makeover – with a singalong soundtrack featuring all your favourite pop songs, audience interaction and dazzling choreography – you can expect a spectacular experience for all ages.
Offering a dreamy and bang-up-to-date adventure for families this Christmas, Sleeping Beauty tells the much-loved tale of the beautiful young princess Aurora who is cursed by the dark fairy Maleficent. However, in true fairy tale style, the evil enchantment is finally broken and Sleeping Beauty gets to experience all of her wildest dreams come true.
This unmissable production of Sleeping Beauty has been penned by Northern playwright Sam O’Rourke, who created an acclaimed new take on Cinderella for Storyhouse last year. Directed by Ameera Conrad and starring Grace Venus as Aurora, Will Kirk as the Prince and Polly Lister as Maleficent, Sleeping Beauty looks set to be another hot ticket this Christmas – and following the glowing success of last year’s show, early booking is strongly recommended.
In addition to the main event, Storyhouse is set to burst with seasonal cheer throughout December. Families with younger children should seek out the hands-on multi-sensory installation of Jack Frost’s Snow Time Adventure (23-25 November), and the hugely popular theatre production of Rod Campbell’s popular children’s book Dear Santa (9-15 December). Father Christmas’ bright story is taken from page to stage in this heartwarming performance recommended for ages 2 and up. Plus, the magic continues after the show when the giddiest Christmas kippers can meet Santa and his Elf and receive their very own Christmas gift.
And as if that wasn’t enough, Storyhouse also brings a feast of festive film screenings for families and movie lovers to enjoy throughout the Christmas period (30 November – 22 December); an adults-only wreath-making workshop with a professional florist (1 December); a brilliant night of carols with St Agnes Fountain (4 December) and a sparkling Christmas Princess Party for young fairytale-lovers (7 December).
Of Storyhouse’s exciting Christmas season, creative director Suzie Henderson told us, “I’m absolutely delighted we’re presenting another magical fairytale with Sleeping Beauty already proving very popular with our wonderful theatregoers. And there are plenty of chances to get involved and share in the seasonal atmosphere, whether that be making your own bespoke Christmas wreath, joining fairytale princesses at a party or gathering to watch a much-loved festive film on one of our big screens.”
Year after year, we love that Storyhouse goes all-in at Christmas. From the front door to the main stage via the on-site restaurant, Chester’s cultural centre is bursting with seasonal cheer for all ages. Grab a mulled wine and get into the festive swing of things at Storyhouse.
