Meet Brundibar
A delightful opera for kids, performed by kids, Brundibár is a folk story about two children who try to raise money to help their sick mother, but are driven out of town by the villainous organ grinder. On hearing this, all the children of the town unite to prove that bullies can be beaten and the little man can win. Brundibár was written by Hans Krása in Prague in the 1930s and was performed in concentration camps during the Second World War to inspire a message of hope. See Cambridge Youth Opera’s beautiful production at the Mumford Theatre, 13-14 July, 7pm. Tickets are £10 (£8 concessions).
Wacky Races!
There’s a lot going on over at Milton Country Park this month. Take part in the Wacky Races on 11 July, organised by Method Creative. Then, try out a host of events on 19 July at Parklife, a family- friendly day of sports and activities in partnership with Cambridge Sports Lake Trust. It’s a highlight of the Park’s calendar and a chance to try your hand at the likes of paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, archery and racing around an inflatable assault course. Qualified instructors will be on hand, and prices are £3 for paddleboarding for one, to £5 for a family in one canoe. Sports begin at 11am, ending at 6pm.
Wimpole Folley Celebration
The iconic folly in the grounds of Wimpole Hall has been successfully restored to its original state of disrepair, so what better reason to get together and celebrate? On 11 July, 1-5pm, visitors will be treated to live jazz and blues from The Accidentalists, a Pimm’s tent and local ales to sample, plus a hog roast. Meet a series of eccentric characters and enjoy family games and activities. Wimpole’s splendid Gothic tower, or folly, stands atop Johnson’s Hill, offering spectacular parkland views. It was originally built as part of the 18th century craze for constructing ‘ruins’ in the grounds of stately homes as a point of interest for guests. Normal admission charges apply.
Romans, fairies and picnics at Wandlebury
Aspiring archaeologists, and anyone interested in uncovering the past, can get involved in a sponsored walk along one of Cambridge’s Roman Roads this month at Wandlebury Country Park. You’ll be joined by actors in full Roman regalia, who will relay stories and fascinating insights into Roman Cambridge and local wildlife. Feel free to come in your own fancy dress: there’ll be prizes for the best costume. The walk starts at 10am, 18 July, and there are three routes of different lengths (five, ten or 17 miles), and under-16s must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum sponsorship is £5 per person, £15 per family. See: www.cambridgeyacs. wordpress.com/roman-road-sponsored-walk. Wandlebury is also holding a Summer Picnic & Music Concert on 26 July, 3.30pm, then send the little ones hunting for fairies on 28 July for Fairy Giggles and Grubby Fun, 2-4pm (£6.50 per child).
