A Musical Rumpus
On 8 November, Saffron Hall presents Spitalfields Music’s award-winning Musical Rumpus series – an interactive concert made especially for children aged 0 to two-and-a-half. Inspired by the Australian lyrebird – an incredible animal which can mimic any sound and make it into song – this latest production invites babies and parents to explore sounds, textures and instruments. Sessions are at 11am and 2pm, followed by a specially-designed free-play session. www.saffronhall.com
The Gruffalo
Clever Cambridge kids all know, there IS such a thing as a Gruffalo! Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved story comes to the Cambridge stage, inviting you into the woods to meet characters from the cunning fox to the eccentric owl – and the star himself: the warty, tusky Gruffalo. Tall Stories’ musical adaptation has been performed all over the world to great acclaim. See it at Cambridge Arts Theatre, 10-15 November. Tickets are £12.50. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com
The Boy Who Never Grew Up
Warner Bros’ big-screen take on J. M. Barrie’s Peter Pan came out last month, but there’s another chance to set sail for Neverland with The Boy Who Never Grew Up. This interactive show uses puppetry and music to create a vivid story of pirates, mermaids and lost boys, live on stage. Suitable for ages 4+, and adults who never really grew up. Plus, before the show, there’ll be a free arts and crafts session. Show times are 11.30am and 2.30pm, 15 November. Tickets £10 (£6 children, £27 family ticket). www.junction.co.uk
A Victorian Christmas
The Victorians really knew how to do Christmas. The 1800s gave us the Christmas tree, Christmas cards, the tradition of the turkey and many of our most popular carols. Find yourself back in the era of Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens at Audley End House this month, and experience Christmas as it used to be. On 28 and 29 November, the great halls will be well and truly decked, Christmas trees trimmed and the kitchens put to work preparing the festive feast of the year. Opening times are 10am-4pm, tickets £15.75 (£9.81 children). www.english-heritage.org.uk
