FREE! Issue 121 Nov/Dec 2016

www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk

North London North London’s premier free family magazine

Covering the boroughs of Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Hackney, Haringey and Islington

Seasonal Celebrations including Where’s Santa? Ice Skating and Children’s Theatre!

Personalised Gifts

01786 473 508 www.labels4kids.com/fam

PLUS Competitions, Clubs and Classes, Open Days and Much More Inside! Welcome to the November/December issue! www.facebook.com IN THIS ISSUE: /FamiliesNorth CONTACT US: 5 Parenting Families North @Families_North 6 School Open Days

FREE! Issue 121 Nov/Dec 2016 8 Education News UPCOMING www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk London Magazine 10 Clubs, Classes & Activities Publisher: Heather Waddington ISSUE: North London North London’s premier free family magazine

Covering the boroughs of Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Hackney, Haringey and Managing Editor: Lisa Ralph Jan/Feb 2017 – Islington 14 Where’s Santa? PO Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF Nurseries and Childcare feature 16 What’s On / Diary Dates T: 01923 237 004 Send in your news, Seasonal Celebrations including 19 Ice Rinks M: 07402 613 042 stories and advertising Where’s Santa? Ice Skating E: [email protected] bookings to the details Children’s Theatre! Personalised Gifts 20 Pantos & Seasonal Shows!

Front cover image credit01786 473 508 left. www.labels4kids.com/fam www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk www.depositphotos.comPLUS competitions, Clubs and Classes, Open Days and much more inside!

A Very Merry Muswell to all! NEWS This year’s seasonal celebration at Muswell Hill has a brand new look! A large Christmas tree will decorate the new heart of Muswell Hill, close by the Everyman Cinema and Planet Organic. The Friends of St James Square have successfully bid for Council funding to build a pit for the tree and on the Sat 3 December, as part the’ Very Merry Muswell’ event, the gorgeous new tree will be lit up for the first time. The fun begins at 1pm. That’s not all! A new Muswell Hill Mosaic will be unveiled on the same day. The work of over 50 people from the local community over three afternoons, the mosaic is will be displayed in the centre of Muswell Hill, in St James Square. Toast the local artist, Leona Matuszak, with a glass of mulled wine while she gives a short speech to thank everyone in the community who took part in the project. For more information, go to www.artistsresource.co.uk/community-art

Families Distributors Needed! Reliable individuals with own transport needed to drop Families North London Magazine at locations across North London and Enfield once each issue (six times/year). Would suit active Mum/Dad or grandparent with school-age children. Get in touch to find out more! [email protected]

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Families North London magazine is designed by Alan Ralph and printed by Warners. Copyright Families North London Magazine 2016. Families North London is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazine Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families North London are protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. All rights reserved.

2 NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 NEWS Don’t miss the Baby and Toddler show 19th-20th November! This autumn comes a new event entitled ‘Baby to Toddler,’ a two day shopping event for modern parents that’s taking place at ExCeL London on the weekend of 19th to 20th November 2016. Created for expectant parents and parents of children aged 0-4, the event will give them access to exclusive offers and deals from all the big brands and names you know and trust, as well as not-on-the high street boutique brands, all under one roof. The one-stop-shop for everything parents need for their little ones, it’s a fantastic shopping event to make their lives easier and comes just in time for Christmas shopping. The Early Bird ticket price is £6 while on-the-door tickets cost £12. www.BabyToToddlerEvents.co.uk

The Oxford and Cambridge SPLASH mob! Singing School’s Christmas At King’s Cross station, brave Course returns swimmers wearing bright rubber 22-23 Dec in Hampstead NW3 rings, flippers and snorkels mingled with commuters as part A wonderful opportunity for children to sing seasonal music with top of a bid to stop the closure of an choral coaches from Oxford and Cambridge Universities. outdoor bathing pond. But sadly, the freshwater swimming pool, The Oxford and Cambridge Singing School is returning to London for a which opened as a temporary art installation at seasonal course on the 22nd & 23rd December. Originally established the heart of King’s Cross regeneration site, was by Music Fellow at St Catharine’s College, Cambridge, their courses are closed on 26 October. Around 40 swimmers, designed for children aged 7-13 who want to learn about classical and joined by TV doctor Chris Van Tulleken sporting choral music with a team of exceptional coaches in a fun and relaxed a purple 1970s swimming cap, braved the chilly environment. morning air for a dip to “show the love” for the This Christmas they will focus on Medieval, traditional and contemporary pond on Tuesday 18 October. But an Argent carols. Grouped according to age, pupils will learn about classical music spokes­woman said, “Following the pond’s through whole group singing, music history, music theory (in the form closure, King’s Cross will move forward with of games, quizzes etc,) singing lessons in small groups and much more! the next piece of public art.” Spaces are limited. www.oxbridgesingingschool.co.uk News continued on page 4...

NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 3 NEWS Struggling to find a sitter over the festive season? Not anymore… Every family needs Like Minders on speed dial! They provide safe, They have a very strict recruitment process and only ever use DBS experienced and security checked babysitters and nannies to care checked babysitters who have professional childcare experience. for your little ones during the day or in the evening. You can book Like Minders are also perfect for an emergency situation, if your one of their lovely childcarers as and when you need one; if you nanny is on holiday or off sick, or you are let down at the last have dinner plans, a meeting or appointment during the day, a minute, they can get a DBS checked childcarer to your home regular evening class, or just need some time for yourself. usually within an hour or two. Founding Director Georgie explains ‘when we started the business Recently they have also branched we saw a gap in the market for ad hoc childcare, a flexible service into hotel babysitting and now work that busy parents can dip in and out of as and when they need with many London’s top hotels, and some help, it has all the benefits of a nanny without any long term they have a few celebrity clients commitment to one’ as a mum of two she adds ‘ being a busy too, although Georgie remains tight mum I can use Like Minders as little or as often as I want, and I can lipped about which ones! usually get my regular childcarers time and time again which is www.likeminders.co.uk great for consistency for me and for my kids’. Add a personal touch to your gift giving this year! Give a personalised gift this year with Labels4Kids. They have a wide range of gifts with everything from personalised boot bags to personalised LEGO® keyrings. These gifts are guaranteed to be a success and are just as fun to give as they are to receive! You can also buy personalised adventure books from Paw Patrol, Disney Frozen and Spiderman. A name of your choice will be printed throughout the book and becomes part of an exciting adventure story. To order yours, visit www.labels4kids.com/fam or call New Range of Christmas cards 01786 473 508 today! All gifts are made to order so please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. available in support of Brain Tumour Research Giving or sending cards is the perfect way to show you are thinking of someone during the festive season. Christmas is so often a time to reflect on the significant connections in our lives and a personal card or note is a thoughtful touch that will always be appreciated. Our cards are priced at £4 per pack and over 50% of the proceeds fund brain tumour research. Could you sell Christmas cards on our behalf? We’d love to send you a box of mixed packs to sell at your school, club, workplace, local Christmas fair or simply from your own home. The Stanlowver Ballet School Visit our website to find out more about buying or selling by cards and to view our full-range of designs. The Kensington Ballet School When you are ready to order, please contact the office on 01908 867200, email [email protected] Or buy directly from our ebay page. Together we will find a cure.

ST JAMES’S CHURCH, WEST HAMPSTEAD NW6 2AP Ages 18 months - 6 years * FREE TRIAL CLASS Office: 07961 992 957 [email protected] www.kensingtonballet.com

4 NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 Parenting Dad’s in charge! New rules have completely changed the way parents can take time off after having a baby Just a few years ago, dads could only take a fortnight off to spend with their newborn. While 2011 saw the introduction of increased paternity leave, it was only available when mums went back to work. But new Shared Parental Leave regulations give eligible parents across the UK flexibility to juggle childcare between them. After a compulsory two weeks off for the mother, parents can share up to 50 weeks of leave in the baby’s first year (or the first year of adoption). The law applies to same sex couples and those bringing up a child together, even if it’s from a previous relationship. Taking it in turns How you split the leave is up to you. It will depend on who earns more, who feels their career will be least affected by taking time off, and who wants to be at home. Significantly, for the first time, dads can take the year off while mums return to work. The leave can be taken in blocks (up to three each) so you can alternate time off if one of you has a particularly busy time at work before resuming parental leave. It’s a big advantage if you don’t want to be away from work for too long. Some dads might want to return to work in the early months when mums are breastfeeding. Once babies start on solids, it can be easier for dads to be fully hands-on so they might want to take time off then, either in one go or in several blocks. Sharing the load One big advantage is that parents can be off at the same time. Many mums need their partner’s support in those first magical, exhausting, bewildering weeks and can dread their partner going back to work after a fortnight. In these cases, a few more weeks with both of you at home could help enormously. Having time off together can benefit families with older children while everyone is getting used to a new member of the family. It means one parent can focus on them and make sure they don’t feel left out. This can also be important in the school holidays when day trips with a newborn are tricky. Can you afford it? Finances will play an important part in the decision. While you can share up to 50 weeks, only 37 are paid. You will receive £139.58 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower. See more on www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/shared-parental-leave.

Journalist Judy Yorke has written for many titles including the Daily Mirror, Closer and Woman. She trains businesses and individuals in writing skills and is an editor, copywriter and journalism tutor. She lives in Brighton with husband Adrian and sons, Kit, 10, and Rory, eight

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NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 5 Independent School Open Days Compiled by Anna Blackshaw. Please check websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days. Listings are subject to change. Abercorn School W1B Boys and Girls 2 ½ - 13 yrs Open Day: Wed 23 Nov, Wed 25 Jan, Fri 17 Mar. *[email protected] (020 7100 4335 Open Day: Sat 17 Jun, 10am-12.30pm. Aldenham School Elstree WD6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs Prep School (01923 851664. Senior School (01923 *[email protected] 858122 The American School in London NW8 Boys and Girls 4-18 yrs Open Day: Tue 1 Nov, 6pm; Tue 22 Nov, 8.45am; Wed 7 Dec, 8www.asl.org 6pm. (020 7449 1200 Arnold House School St John’s Wood NW8 Boys 5-13 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 8www.arnoldhouse.co.uk (020 7266 4840 Belmont School Mill Hill NW7 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs Open Day: Tue 8 Nov, 9.30-11am (Belmont). 8www.belmontschool.com 020 89067290 Cavendish School NW1 Girls 3-11yrs, Boys 3-7 yrs. Open Day: By appointment. 8www.cavendishschool.co.uk *[email protected] Channing School Highgate N6 Girls 4-18 yrs Open Day: Wed 9 Nov both 9.15-11am 8www.channing.co.uk (Sen Sch) (020 83402328 Devonshire House School Hampstead NW3 Open Day: Wed 18 & Thu 19 Jan, 9.45-11.30am. Boys and Girls 2 ½ - 13 yrs (020 7435 1916 8www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk Dwight School N11/12 Boys and Girls 2-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment 8www.dwightlondon.org (020 8920 0637 Eton College Windsor SL4 Boys 13-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 8www.etoncollege.com (01753 370611 Excelsior College Tottenham N17 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: By appointment (Day) 8www.excelsiorcollege.co.uk (020 8365 1153 Francis Holland School NW1 Girls 4-18 yrs Open Day: Wed 2 Nov, Fri 11 Nov all 8.45am (11+); 8www.fhs-nw1.org.uk (020 7723 0176 Goodwyn School Mill Hill NW7 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: By appointment 8www.goodwyn-school.co.uk (020 8959 3756 Grange Park Prep School N21 Boys 3-4 yrs, Girls 3-11 yrs. Open Day: By appointment. 8www.gpps.org.uk (020 8360 4869 The Hall School Belsize Park NW3 Boys 4-13 yrs Open Day: By appointment 8www.hallschool.co.uk (020 7449 6918 Hendon Prep School Hendon NW4 Boys and Girls 2-13 yrs Open Day: Tue 8 Nov. 8www.hendonprep.co.uk (020 8203 7727 Hereward House School Hampstead NW3 Boys 4-13 yrs Open Day: By appointment 8www.herewardhouse.co.uk *[email protected] Highgate School N6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 8www.highgateschool.org.uk (020 8347 3564 Keble Prep School N21 Boys 4-13 yrs Open Day: By appointment 8www.kebleprep.co.uk *[email protected] Kilburn Park Grange Kilburn NW6 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: Thu 10 Nov; Thu 8 Dec; Thu 12 Jan; all 5pm. 8www.kilburngrangeschool.org.uk (020 7504 0547 King Alfred School NW11 Boys and Girls 4-18 yrs Open Day: Thu 26 Jan; Thu 4 May (Upper Sch); Thu 23 Feb; 8www.kingalfred.org.uk Thu 25 May (Lower Sch); all 9.30-11am. (020 8457 5285 Lyndhurst House School Hampstead NW3 Boys 4-13 yrs Open Day: Wed 2 Nov, Wed 8 Feb, Wed 24 May, 9.30-11am. 8www.lyndhursthouse.co.uk (020 7435 4936 Lyonsdown Prep School New Barnet EN5 Boys and Girls Open Day: Tue 7 Mar,1.30pm 3-11 yrs (020 8449 0225 8www.lyonsdownschool.co.uk Naima Jewish Prep School NW6 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: By appointment 8www.naimajps.org.uk (020 7328 2802 Norfolk House School N10 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs Open Day: By appointment 8www.norfolkhouseschool.org (020 8883 4584 North Bridge House School NW1/3 Open Day: Tue 8 Nov, Tue 29 Nov, both 9.30am (Nursery); Boys and Girls 2yrs 9mnths – 18 yrs Thu 10 Nov, 9am (Prep); Tue 1 Nov, Wed 9 Nov, 9am (Sen 8www.northbridgehouse.com Sch) (020 7267 6266

6 NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 Independent School Open Days

Open Day: Sat 5 Nov, 10am-12pm (main sch) 11am-1pm Palmers Green High School Palmers Green N21 Girls 3-16 yrs (nursery) 8www.pghs.co.uk (020 8886 1135 St Antony’s School NW3Boys 4-13 yrs Open Day: By appointment 8www.stantonysprep.org.uk [email protected] St Christopher School SG6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. *[email protected] (01462 650947 St John’s Prep School Potters Bar EN6 Boys and Girls 4-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment 8www.stjohnsprepschool.co.uk (01707 657294 (Jun Sch) (020 8366 0035 (Sen Sch) St Margaret’s School Hampstead NW3 Girls 4-16 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 8www.st-margarets.co.uk (020 7435 2439 St Martha’s School Hadley Wood EN4 Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Fri 18 Nov, Fri 10 Feb, Fri 10 Mar, all 9am-12pm. 8www.st-marthas.co.uk (020 8449 6889 St Martin’s School Mill Hill NW7 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: Wed 2 Nov, 9-11.45am; Sat 5 Nov, 11am-3pm. 8www.stmartinsmillhill.co.uk (020 8959 1965 St Paul’s Steiner School N1 Boys and Girls 3-14 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 8www.stpaulssteinerschool.org.uk (020 7226 4454 Salcombe Prep School N14 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: Thu 19 Jan, Thu 27 Apr, 9.15am 8www.salcmbeprep.co.uk (020 8441 5356 Sarum Hall School Girls NW3 3-11 yrs Open Day: By appointment 8www.sarumhallschool.co.uk *[email protected] South Hampstead High School NW3 Girls 4-18 yrs Open Day: Thu 24 Nov, 9-10.30am & 11am-12.30pm. 8www.shhs.gdst.net (020 7435 2899 The Village School Belsize Park NW3 Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: Wed 28 Sep, 1.30pm. 8www.thevillageschool.org.uk (020 7485 4673 Vita Et Pax Prep School N14 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: Wed 21 & Sat 24 Sep, 9.30am-12pm. 8www.vitaetpax.co.uk (020 8449 8336

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NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 7 Education "But I don’t WANT to go to SCHOOL!" By Liat Hughes Joshi

For more persistent and serious How to cope with school aversions, consider the potential causes school refuseniks If there’s still no improvement and/or your child has a sudden Not all children skip happily through the school gates each but severe issue with school, it’s day. If yours isn’t keen on heading into the classroom, here’s time to find out the triggers in some ideas of what you can do… order to help them. This can be Try to keep everyone calm challenging if they don’t even Mornings can be fraught if your child has developed a school understand their fear, don’t want to tell you (or grandad or aversion but it’s important to at least try and all remain calm aunty) about it or struggle to articulate it at all. Common (easier said than done we know, especially if you’re under reasons for school aversion include bullying/ friendship pressure from teachers to be punctual) or it could add to problems, boredom, learning difficulties, a tricky relationship their anxieties. with a teacher or a major family event such as a divorce or bereavement. You could mention similar situations you It might just be a phase (here’s hoping…) experienced in your school days to encourage discussion – Many children have a few days now and then when they’re modelling how to share their feelings can a great catalyst. not keen on going to school, sometimes for no obvious Meet with their teacher reason. If your instincts and chats with your child indicate Have a chat with their teacher to identify and work on any the situation isn’t serious, try to ride things out without underlying issues going on in the classroom, playground or too much fuss. By not making this into a big issue, it might at home. They’ll probably have prior experience of all this, resolve itself. Meanwhile if you’re sure they’re just ‘trying can provide extra reassurance or support for your child and it on’ - perhaps they fancy a day watching films on the sofa you can carve out an action plan together. (don’t we all sometimes…) - stand firm and make it clear that attending school is non-negotiable. Still struggling? Further support for severe cases of school refusal could be Fake illnesses can be a headache… available via your GP who might make a referral to Child and Mysterious maladies are a common manifestation of not Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) or a private wanting to go to school; although it can be annoyingly psychologist. difficult to decipher whether kids are crying wolf or actually ill. If it could be the former, threatening a trip to the doctors/ Liat is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New call to NHS Direct will usually either get illness fibbers to Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by confess, or provide a miracle cure. Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

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8 NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 Education Tutoring: What you need to know By Liat Hughes Joshi Group tutoring reduces costs but possibly won’t be as tailored We’ve put together some pointers on These can work out cheaper per hour but your child won’t get the same one-on-one attention, and it’s vital to check how to find a great educational support that those in the group need to work on the same things at experience for your child… roughly the same level. Anyone can become a tutor so do your homework Plan ahead where possible One-on-one tutors should be Disclosure and Barring Service The best tutors may well have waiting lists, so if you know (DBS) checked (formerly known as CRB checking) – if they your child will need support for exams or perhaps before aren’t, then be wary. moving to secondary school, begin your search well in advance. Don’t be shy about checking how they work Ask questions even if you’ve had a recommendation from Consider agencies other parents - what suits their child may not suit yours. Reputable agencies will vet tutors’ credentials and should match you and your child to someone with a similar style. Find out the local going rate Expect to pay anything between £20 and £65 an hour, depending on where you live and how in demand a particular tutor is. Arrange a trial lesson Many tutors will offer your child a trial lesson - this lets you get a feel for whether the tutor and your child gel and whether their teaching style is going to work for you both. Good luck! Get more information about tutoring from Families Online: www.familiesonline.co.uk/tutoring

Liat is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

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NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 9 Clubs, Classes & Activities

Children Parties Willows Farm Birthdays We provide all the fun Eluned Pritchard, violin and viola lessons. Gain Art 4 Fun (NW6) Suitable for all ages. Booking and take away all the fuss in organising your child’s knowledge in both practical and theory, increase advisable. All materials are lead free and non- birthday party, with everything from party invites confidence and succeed at ABRSM exams - all in toxic. Themed parties with invitations and a to party bags and balloons included in the price. a fun learning environment! Eluned is a graduate special souvenir tile included. We are now also offering a Peter Rabbit Party of the Royal Academy of Music and has over 20 Call Shane O’Brien on (020 7794 0800. Package. (01727 829535 years teaching experience. DBS checked. Please See more at 8www.art4fun.com 8www.willowactivityfarm.com contact Eluned on (07770 457 079 or email: *[email protected] Art Resources creative, Unique, engaging, fun. Classes for Adults Children’s birthday parties! 12 creative projects Artsdepot (N12) runs a wide range of courses The Strings Club (NW3) Enhance your child’s to choose from. Call (07905 603 332 or *email and classes for all ages and abilities. This includes development with The Strings Club’s weekly music [email protected] workshops for pre-school children, Youth Theatre classes. Children can start their musical journey and Youth Dance companies, and a variety of with us from age 4 and can choose between Creative Wiz Kids Parties classes for adults. The programme also has ukulele, violin or guitar. Our acclaimed classes, Ages 1-12 years, Creative Wiz Kids opportunities for learning with Q&A sessions and starting from only £15 and are all delivered in parties are as creative as children workshops linked to professional performances. small groups. Book a free taster lesson today! Call themselves! Children choose an email *[email protected] (020 8369 (0121 296 9204 8www.thestringsclub.org individual art project which they take home. They 5455 8www.artsdepot.co.uk create a group birthday banner collage for the birthday Sports and Exercise child. CWK parties are natural, interactive combining Peabody Community Programmes (N1) Art Danny Grant Soccer School (N12) Courses for games and dancing with the art. They are active, classes for adults (18+) at Hugh Cubitt Centre, energetic & enthusiastic players for ages 3 to 11. energetic and stimulating. All entertainers are arts Islington, 9am – 12 noon. If you are interested in Non-stop football fun! Develop fitness & football professionals with DBS checks. Creative Wiz Kids has attending, contact the Community Project team at skills! Exciting matches each day! Specialised been celebrating creativity since 1990! *[email protected] For more term-time weekly football classes for 3 & 4 year (07956 592 142 8www.creativewizkids.com information, visit 8www.peabody.org.uk olds and 5 and 6 year olds. Plus weekly football training and league matches for 7 to 12 year olds. Enjoy-a-ball Parties A party you remember Languages and Child Development Also book football and general sports birthday forever! We’d love to help you celebrate your parties. Call for more details! (020 8446 0891 (NW3) child’s special day. Are you stressing out at the Creative Wiz Kids *[email protected] 8www.dgsoccer.co.uk Parent Toddler groups ages 1-3, mere thought of organising another birthday St. Peter’s Church, Belsize Square party? Fear not. With Enjoy-a-Ball you can create Enjoy-a-ball (North London) The sports coach London NW3 4HT, Fridays 9.45- an unforgettable and very enjoyable day for your program that helps today’s children become 10.45am, 11-12 pm. Creative Wiz Kids is one of the child, their guests and, yes, even you. confident adults. A child-development centred oldest most established children’s centres in London. (0333 433 0845 8www.enjoy-a-ball.com program rather than purely sports. Children from Founded by painter/poet Frances Bildner it goes from 2 years to 9 years old. Call (0333 433 0845 or strength to strength. Classes start with free play, then KiddiKicks If your child is mad for football, we also email [email protected] See more at songs, painting, a second art / craft project, dancing, offer child and toddler football themed birthday 8www.enjoy-a-ball.com musical instruments, introduction to CreativeWizKid party entertainment. Book a tailor-made party songs, story time. Classes are social, friendly and for football mad youngsters that packs in the fun. Kiddikicks Summer Holiday Football Coaching stimulating. Children take home a variety of creations We come to your venue too! Score a great happy 5 - 8 years. Keep up your tekkers over the summer they have made during the term. A single class trial is birthday party with your kids. South West London, holidays! Outdoor, weekly, 3 hour, football available. All classes run by arts professionals with DBS East London, North London, West London. (020 coaching sessions. July 16th to August 26th. South checks. Call (07956 592 142 7937 7965 *[email protected] West London, East London, North London, West 8www.creativewizkids.com 8www.kiddikicks.co.uk London. (020 7937 7965 *info@kiddikicks. Club Petit Pierrot (NW3/8/11) Fun French co.uk 8www.kiddikicks.co.uk/timetable Mystical Faires (NW3) provide amazing Immersion Programmes (Est 1993) including a entertainers to enchant your little ones at a venue Parent & Toddler group - Hampstead (NW3), After- Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged of your choosing. Providing characters and themed school classes - Hampstead (NW11), Immersion 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop their parties suitable for boys and girls of all ages, classes and advanced classes for 4-6 yr olds - St coordination, balance and agility through football including, Fairy, Princess, Batman, Willy Wonka John’s Wood/Maida Vale (NW8). Also all classes activity classes. and many more. call Meg Sussman on (020 7431 from 8 months old to 8 yrs old on Thursdays, Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders 1888. *[email protected] Fridays & Saturdays in St John’s Wood/Maida Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet: Julia Levene 8www.mysticalfairies.co.uk Vale (NW8) FREE TRIAL LESSON (020 7385 5565 (020 8201 1084 *[email protected] *[email protected] North Finchley, Southgate, Enfield town, Enfield St Perform (North London) Perform Parties are 8www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk Lukes: Emma Hanna (020 76847969 *ehanna@ high energy, fun and totally infectious. 4-7s are littlekickers.co.uk taken on a magical mission based on the chosen Music and Movement theme. 7-12 year olds work together putting on Colourstrings Enrol NOW for a discounted trial of Rugbytots (High Barnet and North Finchley) Book a fantastic show before performing it to a rapt 3 lessons! Call Yvonne on (020 8444 9435 Rugbytots sessions at Queen Elizabeth Girls school audience of family and friends. (020 7255 9120 email: *[email protected] (High Barnet) beginning Sunday 11th September, *[email protected] 8www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk by emailing *[email protected] Go 8www.perform.org.uk to 8www.rugbytots.co.uk

10 NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 Clubs, Classes & Activities

Swimming After School Club & Educational Support Aweswim (Golders Green and Colindale areas) Swimming lessons with Bilingual Nurseries (N1) French/English Mars Montessori Bilingual Nursery a difference. Children, parent & baby, adult & child, pre-school, non- is a small private nursery in the heart of Islington, offering Montessori swimmers up to competitive, Group/Private one-to-one lessons, instructor education and a bilingual environment, coupled with extended day care for in the water. No armbands/discs for quick learning. Join us anytime. children aged 1-4 years. We have only 24 children, and 6 members of staff. 8www.aweswim.co.uk The nursery is open from 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday for 47 weeks of the year. (020 7099 0452 8www.bilingualnurseries.com Poolside Manor (N3) Finchley Swimming lessons for children, babies & toddlers and adults. Camps: action-packed weekly programmes for Explore Learning Award-winning tuition with a difference. With over 120 kids aged 3 and upwards. A range of sports, arts & crafts, dance, drama centres across the UK, head online to find your nearest centre. Call (01483 & entertainers, not to mention a daily fun swim! All year: pool parties 447 414 to book your free trial session today. 8www.explorelearning.co.uk – membership swimming, Pilates, aqua fit, lifeguard & first aid courses contact us on (020 8349 1945 8www.poolsidemanor.com Fleet Tutors Run a 5-day or 3-day small group preparation small group preparation courses for 11+ or 13+ entrance exams. These are run by highly Theatre and Performing Arts successful Maths, English, Verbal reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning Artsdepot (N12) runs a wide range of courses and classes for all ages and during the week, with students sitting mock exam papers. Call (0845 644 abilities. This includes workshops for pre-school children, Youth Theatre and 5452 or go to 8www.fleet-tutors.co.uk Youth Dance companies, and a variety of classes for adults. The programme also has opportunities for learning with Q&A sessions and workshops linked Tops Tutors (All London) Excellent specialist tutors with full background to professional performances. Email *[email protected], Call (020 checks. primary, 11+, GCSE, A Level, degree, Special Needs including 8369 5455 or Go to 8www.artsdepot.co.uk Dyslexia. We help with revision and exams techniques to help calm nerves and build confidence, preventing last minute panic. Tutors build self-esteem Perform (N7) Perform is a different type of drama school. They use a with students in the classroom and in exam environments. covering London unique mix of drama, dance and singing - specially developed and written and Home Counties. Call (020 8349 2148 or visit 8www.tutors.co.uk by the team - to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention. Choose between Drama and Holiday Clubs and Camps ( Dance classes for 4 -7 year olds and 7-12 year olds. 020 7255 9120 email: Creative Wiz Kids (NW3) Holiday clubs, Ages 3-9 years * 8 [email protected], See more at: www.perform.org.uk Do you want your child to have fun and creativity in the holidays? Creative Wiz Kids has been offering three hours Razzamataz (NW3 &NW5) Razz Tots for ages 2-3 years, an exciting journey of art music dance and drama games daily in the school through the jungle, to space, under the sea and much more! Razzamataz holidays since 1990! Founded by professional artist/poet Frances Bildner hope to aid parents to ensure that their children can develop and achieve in New York City, it has seen many happy faces come through its doors! their full potential in a safe and enabling environment. Also, for ages 6-8 Clubs are fun and stimulating and great friendships are formed. Although Intro to Juniors and Razz Inters ages 9–11. Creative Wiz Kids have produced great work, the emphasis is on process 8 Go to hampstead.razzamataz.co.uk rather than finished product. In these times of increasing pressure on * email: [email protected] children, creative Wiz Kids continues to provide a much needed fun, stimulating environment for the young. All clubs are run by professionals in Stagecoach (Highgate) Help your child explore their creativity through the arts with experience with children and DBS checks. St Peter’s Church, performing arts and develop ‘creative courage’ through singing, dancing Belsize Square, London NW3 4HT 12th – 16th December and 19th – 23rd and acting classes. To find out about their two-week trial classes or for more December 8www.creativewizkids.com( 07956 592 142 information about Stagecoach Highgate visit their website at 8www.stagecoach.co.uk/Highgate or call on (07956 436 028. Perform (N5, NW1, NW3, NW8) Hansel and Gretel (for 4-7s). Put on a magical Christmas show, over 3 full days of drama, dance and singing fun. Dance 19 Dec - 21 Dec, 10am - 3pm. Call Lucy Quick on phone number or by email Chantraine Dance of Expression (South & West Hampstead) for all those for booking: (020 7255 9120 / *[email protected] who love to dance! Welcoming new and old pupils/ children from 5 years 8www.perform.org.uk to teenagers are introduced to an exciting new year of dance with a friendly and creative approach. All main styles – classical – contemporary – jazz. Willows Activity Farm Activity Day Camps every school holiday. Book the Term begins Sept 19th. kids into Willows Activity Farm for holiday adventures they love! With Contact: Patricia on (020 7435 4247 changing seasonal events there’s something new each school holiday. or email: *[email protected] Christmas Holidays 22nd- 23rd, 28-30th December 2016 and 3rd &4th January 2017. Diddi Dance (North London, Enfield, Potters Bar) Dance classes for girls Call (01727 829535 8www.willowactivityfarm.com and boys (18 months – 4 y/o). Various dancing games and exercises and props, such as hoops and dance ribbons, to pop songs to improve rhythm, coordination, social and gross motor skills. Different dance styles every half term. 8www.diddidance.com To include your Clubs and Islington Arts Centre (N7) Term-time after-school and w/end and classes. Ballet, contemporary and urban dance, Ages 4+ Classes here email: (020 7607 0561 8www.islingtonartsfactory.org [email protected]!

NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 11 How to createSeasonal a festive Celebrations! Family party to remember The thought of planning a festive party for family and friends can send us into a spin – especially if you’re fitting it in around your busy work and family life. But there’s no need to get hot under the collar if you follow our tips and advice for the best party ever! 1. Start early can always narrow it down later if you at the door. On the day itself, enlist the It’s never too early to start planning. have too many. And think about who help of your family to get everything Keep lists of ideas, inspirations and gets on with whom – you may decide done and don’t forget to save yourself recipes in a note book. As the date that two parties are necessary if you enough time for a relaxing bath and gets nearer, hone the list down so that have factions of your family or friends time to get ready so you can enjoy the you know exactly what you want and who don’t get on with each other! party too! need. Practice cooking any new dishes and order any hard to get items well 5. Creating the mood And finally… in advance. Don’t forget to book your Think about how your home will appear If your guests will be drinking, think grocery delivery too! to guests. Make it smell nice with about how they will get home (they can flowers, coffee and scented candles (out of course choose designated drivers) 2. Set the date–and tell people of the reach of kids of course). Don’t and organise local taxis for those who It pays to set the date early and let forget the bathrooms – there should would rather leave their car at home. others know, so send ‘save the date’ be toilet paper, a bin, hand soap and If you have the space, you may want to notices on Facebook and follow up with clean towels. Make it warm enough offer a bed to a few people overnight. a more formal invitation – make sure for comfort (but not stifling) and have Also, think about giving them a party you include the start and end times and a play list on your MP3 player. Just bag with a small bottle of mineral water details the guests need to know such as remember that everyone may be sick and a piece of cake or a biscotti in it. “it’s fancy dress”. Find out if there are of Slade’s Merry Christmas Everyone by They will thank you in the morning! dates your party might clash with - such now, so perhaps go for something a little as a work party, or even a birthday. You different. Frank Sinatra anyone? Get more fantastic party ideas from could even consider that quieter period Families Online: www.familiesonline. between Christmas and New Year! 6. Making guests feel welcome co.uk/party As your guests arrive, make them feel 3. Set a budget welcome. Designate one of the kids to Costs can get out of hand, so think take coats to a bedroom, have some about ways you can cut back. Doing a welcoming drinks on a tray ready to be shop at a budget supermarket, making handed out as people arrive and make food and freezing it is much more sure there are enough seats. Have some cost-effective than leaving it to the last canapés prepared and some simple minute and grabbing whatever you can snacks for the children too, so that you from the ready-made aisles. Make a few don’t have to be in the kitchen rather simple dishes ahead and get decorations than mingling with your guests. Plus it and napkins from a 99p store. If you avoids any ‘hangry’ moments from the like fresh flowers, avoid red - the cost kids. of red flowers soars at this time of year! Choose another colour or gather 7. Get your house–and yourself–ready About a week before, give your home a By Sally J Hall evergreens from the garden. Drinks can Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for also be very expensive, so ask everyone good clean, so that on the day you can just run the hoover around quickly. Put all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent to bring a bottle while you provide a and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and welcome cocktail or glass of fizz – plus away breakables and have a count up – contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling soft drinks for the kids of course. do you have enough plates, cutlery and Kindersley). so on? Buy more or arrange to borrow 4. Think about who to invite some. Think about what you’re going to Write down the names of people you’d wear and try it on, so you’re not still in like to invite as you think of them – you your underwear as guests are knocking

12 NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 Edible ChristmasSeasonal gifts youCelebrations! can make with your kids Christmas gifts don’t have to be expensive and you can have lots of fun making foodie gifts for your friends and family. Here are a few quick, easy and delicious ideas for you to make with your children. Cheese Palmiers These quick and easy cheesy biscuits taste delicious and are great as a gift if you pop them in a little box. »»Packet of ready-made puff pastry »»100g cheese of your choice – gruyere or cheddar or great, or experiment with the different colours of white Cheshire, Red Leicester and yellow Cheddar. Method: Place the pastry flat on a floured baking tray. Grate the cheese on the large side of the grate so it’s not too fine, then help your child scatter it evenly across the pastry. Next, get your child to roll the pastry up from each end, so that the rolls meet in the middle. Press it all down lightly. With a knife that’s not too sharp, your child can cut slices through the pastry, about 0.5 cm wide. You’ll get quite a few out of the pastry. Place each on its side on a baking tray, leaving plenty of room as they will expand as they cook. Place in a hot over (200 C, 400 F Gas 6) for 10-12 minutes until golden. Leave to cool. To turn these into a lovely gift, take a box from an old packet of biscuits or crackers, cut off the top and cover the box with Christmas paper. Place the Palmiers inside laid one on top of each other at an angle. Finally, cover the top with clear plastic or cling film, then add a pretty ribbon or bow on top.

Snowballs Everyone loves chocolate and these little snowball shaped truffles are great as a Christmas themed treat. »»2 tbsp double cream »»2 tbsp desiccated coconut »»200g good white chocolate, chopped »»Mini cake cases »»Half tsp vanilla extract Method: Put the chocolate pieces in a pudding basin and set it over a pan of hot water, with the double cream. Bring to a simmer and then turn the heat down low. You’ll need to supervise your child at this stage, as steam can burn. Stir with a wooden spoon until the chocolate has melted into the cream. Add the vanilla, take off the heat and chill for one hour. It should then be firm but still loose enough to work with. With a teaspoon, each take a small amount of the chocolate paste and roll it in a ball between your palms. Then roll it in the coconut and you have little snowball shaped truffles. Place each completed one inside a mini cake case. Pop some inside a jam jar to give as a gift and add little playful touches such as tiny robins and Christmas trees that you use as cake decorations.

Mini Pretzels Embrace the inner European in you with these German snacks »»3 tsp honey »»6 tbsp olive oil »»1 and a half p[ackets dried yeast »»6 tbsp baking powder »»800g plain flour »»2 egg whites »»1 and a half tsp salt »»Coarse sea salt for sprinkling Method: Mix together one of the tablespoons full of honey with 500 ml warm water in a measuring jug and add the yeast. Stir it until the yeast has completely dissolved and becomes a little foamy. Then in a bowl, mix together the flour and the salt. Add the oil, the yeast and water mixture and the rest of the honey and work with a wooden spoon and then hands to make a dough. Now comes the fun part. Put the ball of dough onto a floured board or work surface and let the kids get kneading. It needs about ten minutes, adding a bit more flour as you go if it gets too sticky. Return the dough to the bowl and cover with a tea towel and set in a warm place to rise for about 1 hour. Take the dough out and knead all over again for five minutes this time. Then break the dough up into little balls – you should make 24. Roll each one out into a long rope, then bring the ends together and twist it twice near the top of the loop to make a pretzel shape. A little practice makes it perfect. Let them rest for 15 minutes. Next, you have to poach the pretzels – this is what gives them their fluffy inside. Put the baking soda in a large pan of water, brig to the boil, then poach each pretzel on each side for just around 15 seconds. Work in batches. Finally, lay them on a flat baking tray lined with baking parchment, brush with egg white and sprinkle with coarse salt and then bake at 450 F 220 C Gas 6 for 15 minutes.

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NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 13 Where’s Santa?

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out. You better watch out! You better not cry… Yes it’s that time of year where again where young and old alike look forward to sitting down with the jolly old man for a chat about wishes and wants. Call him what you will - Father Christmas, Santa, Pere Noel... – a visit with him is part of the magic and tradition that makes this time of year so special for families!

Now, you just need to decide which ones (and how many) you will make part of your Christmas story this year! Here’s our list of some of the best choices for North London Families…

Brent Cross Shopping Centre (NW4) Details TBC, but Santa will yet again be making an appearance in his Grotto at Brent Cross. Keep an eye on their website for further information. 8www.brentcross.co.uk

Christmas Wonderland (EN2) At Springtime Nurseries, Crews Hill. Take an enchanted train journey through magical lands on the Santa Express to the Willows Farm elves workshop to meet Santa. After you meet Santa himself, you’ll have the chance to experience many other wonderful attractions such as the giant snow globe and indoor skating rink. Pre-booking can be done online and large group bookings are available and catered for. Further Afield Bluewater Shopping Centre (DA9) From Thurs 24th Nov until Christmas Eve 8www.christmas-wonderland.co.uk why not enjoy a fun-packed day out for all the family with a real Ice Rink Lauderdale House (N6) ‘Santa in the House’ on Saturday 10th & Sunday outside beside the lake and meet Paddington™ and Father Christmas in the 11th December - your chance to visit ‘one of London’s top five Santas’ new grotto. (Time Out)! Santa will fly in for a weekend meeting, from 10am-4pm each 8www.bluewaterwinterwonderland.co.uk day, and is looking forward to meeting and treating the children of North Buckinghamshire Railway Centre (HP22) See Father Christmas in a ‘Grotto London! Go and meet him … and of course, leave with a present! Advance with a Difference’ - On a Steam Train!! The train will take you up and down booking advisable. Only children visiting Santa need a ticket - accompanying the 1/3 mile length of track whilst you wait for Father Christmas, who will adults don’t need to purchase a ticket. make his way along the train visiting all the children. When he comes to 8www.lauderdalehouse.co.uk your carriage, he will come and join you, and one of his elves will pull your The Enchanted Christmas House (N1) A 3 hour interactive theatrical gift from his huge toy sack! Afterwards, enjoy a live children’s show, face extravaganza that will delight the whole family, with this year’s show being painting, and free refreshments. See Thomas on 26th/27th Nov, 3rd/4th Santa’s Pink Pigeon and the Glitter Snatchers. Open from 26th November to Dec and 10th/11th Dec, or on 17th/18th Dec see Santa on a beautifully 24th December. restored steam engine. 8www.enchantedhouse.net 8www.bucksrailcentre.org

Santa’s Country Cottage and Woodland Trail (EN2) Santa will be making Hamleys Toy Shop (W1B) Meet Father Christmas at Hamleys between 26th three special appearances at Forty Hall on 3rd, 10th and 17th December. Nov and 24th Dec. Join him and his loveable elves at the finest toy shop You’ll find him keeping cosy in the historic Warrener’s Cottage in the Walled in the world for fun, magic and theatre at this very special time of year. It Garden this Christmas. Afterwards, take the whole family on the specially- will be an extra special experience where children will take part in seasonal designed Christmas Winter Woodland Trail around the pleasure grounds. games and activities, enjoy delicious snacks, spend time with Father 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk Christmas and receive an extra special gift bag to take home. 8www.hamleys.com The Mall Wood Green (N22) A brand new grotto will open on Saturday 26th November and will be open every weekend and weekdays from 5th Hatfield House (AL9) The annual Frost Fair will take place from 17th-20th December up to Christmas. Nov, with up to 200 stalls with gift ideas for all. Father Christmas will be 8www.themall.co.uk/wood-green there, along with choirs, dancers and street entertainers. 8www.hatfield-house.co.uk Wyevale Garden Centre Enfield (EN2) From Sat 12th Nov to Sat 24th Dec have breakfast or tea with Father Christmas in this special Christmas treat Hyde Park (W2) Open from 18th Nov – 2nd Jan, Hyde Park Winter for kids of all ages (and grown-ups too!). Wonderland is a spectacular festive event in the heart of the capital, 8www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk/breakfast-or-tea-with-father-christmas offering a dazzling array of activities and entertainment. See Santa in his Grotto, enjoy skating around the UK’s largest open-air ice rink, see jaw- ZSL London Zoo (NW1) Will have a ‘Meet Santa’ experience in a specially dropping circus shows, world-class ice dancing in The Nutcracker on Ice and decorated grotto, complete with helper Elves. Each child will receive a see stunning views across London in the Giant Observation Wheel. present and an opportunity for a photo with Santa. Dates TBC. 8www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com 8www.zsl.org

14 NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 Where’s Santa?

Paultons Theme Park & Peppa Pig World (SO51) Meet Santa in his magical Grotto and many of his animal friends along the way as they all get ready for Christmas Eve. Adorable animated characters greet you at every turn with twinkling lights and magical scenes brought to life. Includes a free gift for all children and a festive treat and hot punch for adults. 8www.paultonspark.co.uk

Royal Albert Hall (SW7) from Tue 6th – Sat 24th Dec, go us on a magical adventure through the Royal Albert Hall, solving puzzles and following clues to help find the key to Father Christmas’s grotto, where a wonderful visit awaits! Children of all ages will be delighted by this interactive festive experience. 8www.royalalberthall.com

Sutton House, Hackney (E9) Go along to the design and food market and playful pantomime experiences throughout 500-year-old Sutton House, every weekend from 26th Nov. Santa will be telling the secret of what makes reindeer fly and giving gifts from a surreal sleigh. 8www.nationaltrust.org.uk

WWT London Wetland Centre (SW13) Meet Santa and his huskies on Sat 3rd & Sun 4th Dec. Children will be thrilled to hop aboard for a husky sleigh ride and visit Santa in his magical grotto or take a ride on a donkey. Then head over to the northern pine forest where Father Christmas will be ready to welcome families in his cosy grotto among the trees. 8www.wwt.org.uk

Westfield London & Stratford City (W12/E20) This Christmas, from 19th Nov– 8th Jan, Westfield will unveil a brand new festive experience that will take families on an unforgettable journey to the North Pole accompanied by Po, the Kung-Fu Panda, and friends. Adventure to Santa’s Grotto, A DreamWorks DreamPlace – takes visitors through fun, interactive and personalised activities on their adventure to Santa. 8www.uk.westfield.com/london 8www.uk.westfield.com/stratfordcity

Willows Farm (AL4) There will be a Santa-tastic programme of activities at Willows Farm this Christmas, from 23rd Nov to 24th Dec. After meeting Santa and telling him what they would like for Christmas, Santa hands each child a golden key to his Toy Shop where they can choose ANY gift from the hundreds stacked from floor to ceiling. There will be a plenty of other Kew Gardens (TW9) From 23rd Nov to 2nd Jan head to Kew Gardens to festive activities on offer as well! enjoy a Victorian carousel, helter-skelter, and other family rides and don’t 8www.willowsactivityfarm.com forget to look out for Santa and his elves at the North Pole village along the way. Winterville (E9) Taking place at Victoria Park, expect to find Santa in his Grotto, an ice rink, pantomime, fairground rides, and much more! Knebworth House (SG3) Give your family an early Christmas treat with a 8www.winterville.co.uk fantastic lunch at Knebworth Barns, complete with a visit from Santa and a gift for every child. Special festive Sunday lunches will be held on 4th, 11th and 18th Dec. 8www.knebworthhouse.com

Lee Valley Boat Centre (EN10) A Santa Cruise on 17th & 18th Dec, including mulled wine & mince pies for the adults and a visit with a present from Santa for the children. 8www.riverleecruises.co.uk

Legoland (SL4) This year LEGOLAND Windsor are hosting Santa sleepovers enter the - a whole night of Christmas entertainment and festive fun for little ones, including meeting LEGOLAND Characters and joining them at their own PARTY PIECES disco. This is followed by a day of festive fun at the heart of the LEGOLAND Christmas Competition to WIN a Railway Advent Calendar!* Windsor Resort, with the highlight being meeting Father Christmas in his The UK’s leading party company, Party Pieces are offering readers the magical grotto. Sleepovers will take place on 3rd – 4th, 10th – 11th, and chance to win an alternative advent calendar by Meri Meri. 17th – 24th Dec. The charming railway set features embellished wooden pieces in a 8www.legoland.co.uk decorative box with drawstring keepsake bag. To enter just go to www.familiesonline.co.uk/competitions Leicester Square (WC2H) Christmas in Leicester Square is a new festival for 2016, which will transform the centre of bustling London into a wonderland Competition closes 28th November 2016 including traditional Christmas markets with hand-crafted goods and delicious food and drinks, a Santa’s Grotto where children will be able to meet the man himself, plus the return of Olivier Award-winning theatrical smash-hit sensation, La Soirée, for an 8 week run in this fantastic new location! From 11th Nov – 8th Jan. 8www.christmasinleicestersquare.com

Museum of London and Museum of London Docklands (EC2Y/ E14) From 2nd – 23rd Dec, see Santa in his Victorian Grotto, ready to hear all your Christmas wishes. Experience the Sailortown gallery, transformed with festive decorations and the sound of Victorian carols being sung in the distance. Find Santa in his grotto and receive a festive gift. *Terms & conditions apply. 8www.museumoflondon.org

NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 15

xmascomp.indd 1 06/10/2016 14:13 What’s On Listings for all the Family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out. Thu 17 Nov - Playtest UK: Games Design Night (E2) Try your hand at games design at the V&A Museum of Childhood with Playtest UK, a friendly group of board game designers and play testers. Newcomers and experienced gamers are invited to play exciting new games and win cool prizes in an evening inspired by the Museum’s board games collection and the exhibition, Game Plan: Board Games Rediscovered. 8www.vam.ac.uk/moc Fri 18 Nov - Kids in Museums Takeover Day (E2) Join local school children as they take over the Geffrye Museum for the day, running a programme of activities for families and visitors from 10.30am-12pm and 1-2.30pm. 8www.geffrye-museum.org.uk Sun 20 Nov - Family Jazz All Stars (N12) A sell-out triumph in previous years, this year’s Family Jazz All Stars at Artsdepot showcases the stunning vocals of Zoe Gilby in an unmissable and friendly show for all the family. Including songs from jazz down the years, as well as her distinctive take on popular classics, this promises to be perfect for all the family, from children to grandparents. So take along the whole clan and enjoy Forty Hall an energetic whistle-stop journey through jazz like no other! 8www.artsdepot.co.uk

Sun 6 Nov - Family Craft (NW3) An English Heritage Sun 20 Nov - Frost Fair with the Finchley November Women’s Institute (N3) Stephens House & Gardens Fri 4 – Sat 5 Nov - Alexandra Palace Firework Event bringing Kenwood House’s world famous paintings to life. Families will get to work together to try and Finchley Women’s Institute are hosting their 6th Festival (N22) Set against unrivalled panoramic views Annual Frost Fair. There will be lunches, tea, coffee and of London, this spectacular firework display will light up out different art and crafts whilst exploring the house and finding out more about its collections. Sessions will snacks served in the dining room and the W.I. will be the evening sky making the 2016 show an unforgettable running their delicious home-made cake stall. Along experience. Bigger and brighter than ever with an epic take place in the house. Just turn up between 12pm-4. pm to take part. 8www.english-heritage.org.uk with art and craft stalls there will be activities including laser show, this will be the place to be in the capital on a tombola and more. Fireworks weekend. You can also enjoy a Beer Festival, Sun 6 Nov - The Great Fire of London Fireworks 8www.stephenshouseandgardens.com Day of the Dead Parade, as well as ice skating and a Display (E3) The Mayor of Tower Hamlets presents The family area. 8www.fireworks.london/thedisplay Great Fire of London Fireworks display, when the skies Sun 20 Nov - The Housemaid’s Tour (WC1N) Step back in time to 1839…Dickens and his young family are Sun 4 – Sat 24 Dec – Santa’s Little Workshop (N1) over Victoria Park will be ablaze with light and colour at 7pm. The display is free. preparing to leave for a journey to a relaxing holiday in Crafty Festive fun and stories for 2–8 year olds and their Broadstairs. But during their absence, the housemaid families - leave behind the craziness of the high street Thu 10 Nov - ZSL London Zoo Fire Walk (NW1) is up to no good. She is taking a break from her many this Christmas and get cosy in the workshop. ’Twas ZSL London Zoo will be turning up the heat on when duties and invitng you to step through the original door the Night Before Christmas will be brought to life with fearless fundraisers prowl across red hot coals at the of 48 Doughty Street and discover the secrets of the a touch of magic and sparkle plus some very festive charity’s annual Fire Walk. Those brave enough to esteemed young writer and his growing family. Walk puppet making, getting you and your family in the hot foot it over smouldering embers will help to raise in the footsteps of the celebrated young author as you Christmas spirit. You’ll even get a chance to meet the funds for the Zoological Society of London’s (ZSL) work enjoy an exclusive tour of Dickens’s ‘house in town’, own puppet Santa, who has a little surprise for all good for wildlife around the world. Friends and family are his only surviving London residence. Early booking is girls and boys encouraged to go along and lend their support to the recommended to avoid disappointment. 8www.littleangeltheatre.com fire walkers. While the lion-hearted wildlife warriors are 8www.dickensmuseum.com preparing their minds and feet, spectators can test their Sat 5 Nov - The Walker Ground Grand Firework Tue 22 Nov - Fri 25 Nov - Shakespeare Schools Event (N14) The annual grand firework event at the own daring with a torch lit tour of the Zoo. 8www.zsl.org/firewalk. Festival (N12) Shakespeare Schools Festival is proud to Walker Cricket Ground with a bar, food and drink, rides present a series of unique performances at Artsdepot and stalls. 8www.thewalkerground.co.uk Sat 12 Nov - NCT Enfield Nearly New Sale (EN2) by children from all over North London. Whether you Sat 5 Nov - Barnet Scouts Firework Display (NW7) A Charity Nearly new sale at Enfield Grammar Upper are a parent, friend or another local school, SSF is a The annual Barnet Scout’s Firework Display at Frith School from 11am-12.30pm. There will be quality pre wonderful way to experience the language, magic and 8 Grange Scout Camp, with food stalls, games and a loved baby and children’s items for up to 90% off the possibilities of Shakespeare. www.artsdepot.co.uk high street price, so go along and grab a bargain for bonfire! The display will be professional, with qualified Sat 26 Nov - Door Dog Presents Barnet Arts staff letting off over £4,000 worth of fireworks! It’s the Christmas! The first 150 people get a goody bag packed worth local information. Entry is £2 on the day but if &Crafts Fair (EN5) A local fair at Lyonsdown Hall, with perfect family friendly display. No need to pre book, pay arts and crafts, warming food and a chance to buy some on the gate. Gates open at 6pm. you go with a flyer entry is 2 for 1! *[email protected] original Christmas presents. * Sat 5 Nov - Finchley Cricket Club Fireworks and [email protected] Sat 12 Nov - Cheeki Monkeys BIG Baby and Bonfire Night (N3) Put on your winter warmers and Sat 26 & Sun 27 Nov - Pigfest (E1)Celebrating a pack up the family to join in a great evening supporting Children’s Market (N22) A pop-up Baby and Children’s Market at Heartlands High School in Wood Green. Fun fantastic year at Stepney City Farm, and the delicious your local Cricket Club at their Annual Fireworks and high welfare pork they raise, talking about some piggy Bonfire evening. FCC have a great bar with local ales, Family Day Out. Save up to 90% on quality pre-loved goods. There will be free parking and entertainment issues and raising awareness of the different farming new world wines and treats for the kids. Delicious systems – how well do you know your labels? Piggy food will be on offer as well as a raffle with fantastic to keep children occupied, safe and happy so you can browse in a buggy friendly space. belly rubs, games and more. 12-3pm. prizes! Fireworks will start at 7pm, tickets can only be 8www.stepneycityfarm.org purchased on the gates. 8www.cheekimonkeys.co.uk/london-wood-green 8www.finchley.play-cricket.com Sat 12 Nov - Lord Mayors Show (Various) The day Sun 27 Nov - Family Variety Acts (NW1) Do you love to dance, sing and have fun with your family? Then Sat 5 Nov - Pyromusical Fireworks Show (N16) If will include a River Pageant, when the new Lord Mayor will arrive in a splendid flotilla which will set off from head along to the British Library where they will turn you want to make your family Bonfire night filled with your family party piece into a Victorian variety act - be it sparkling magic and memorable mesmerization, you Westminster, and Tower Bridge will open in salute at 9.25am. At 11am the world-famous Lord Mayor’s magic, dance, wise-cracking, singing or tombola-turning. won’t want to miss out on this year’s amazing night of Learn how to improvise, entertain and own the stage! music synched in with the most spectacular fireworks Procession sets off from Mansion House. Then at 5.15pm the new Lord Mayor will complete his first day From 2-3.30pm, suitable for ages 5 – 11 years. display in Clissold Park, Hackney! Gates open at 5:30pm, 8www.bl.uk be inside the park for 6:30pm at the latest. The display in office with a magnificent fireworks display over the will last 20 minutes and there will be a kids fun fair Thames. 8www.lordmayorsshow.london (with rides), live street performers, thirst - quenching drinks and yummy food stalls!

16 NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 What’s On

December Sun 4 Dec - St John’s Hospice Christmas Fayre Christmases across the centuries. Step in to the comfort Thu 1 Dec - Festive Open Evening (E2) Kick off (NW8) Go along to the Christmas Fayre on St John’s of the Hall and back in time to enjoy sights, sounds and your Christmas celebrations with the popular Crafty Fox Wood High Street, and help raise vitals funds for scents of festive times past. An atmospheric Christmas Christmas market at the Geffrye Museum. There will be patients and their families at St John’s Hospice. There experience not to be missed! 11am - 4pm on weekdays, crafts, greenery demonstrations, talks, music, a bar and will be fairground rides and local stallholders selling and 12pm - 4pm at weekends. street food. 5-9pm. 8www.geffrye-museum.org.uk clothing, food, jewellery and festive goods. You will also (020 8807 6680 *[email protected] get the chance to meet Peppa Pig, visit Santa’s Grotto, 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk Sat 3 Dec - Magical Children’s Christmas (EN2) as well as other festive attractions. Open 11am-6pm Step back in time to experience Christmas throughout and entry is free. 8www.stjohnshospice.org.uk Fri 9 – Sun 11 Dec & Thu 15 – Sun 18 Dec – 1940’s the ages as sights, sounds and scents fill the Forty Hall Candlelit Tours (EN2) Take a trip back to the 1940’s Estate with atmosphere. Enjoy story-telling, traditional Sun 4 Dec - Hoxton Hall Christmas Fair (N1) Pop and wartime Christmas at Forty Hall. Take a tour of this Christmas arts and crafts, spectacular festive lights and in to peruse the 20 plus unique stalls offering fabulous historic house to the past, present and future. As the air welcoming characters who will bring the Hall to life for affordable items not available on the High Street, which raid siren sounds and you hear the calls of ‘turn those this fun festive treat. Suitable for ages 4-11 years. With will include Vintage furniture and clothing, hand crafted lights out!’, Forty Hall will turn to candlelight once more Horse and Cart rides around the lake (£1.50 per person) stitched gifts, homemade preserves and cakes, hand for this year’s festive tour. Ticket includes a glass of and a Christmas woodland trail around the Pleasure crafted mosaics and Christmas decorations and much mulled wine. (020 8807 6680 Grounds. Christmas all wrapped up for you! 12-4pm, more! Admission is free, open from 11am – 4pm. 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk free (children’s activities £3.50). Tue 6 Dec - London Santa Dash for Brainwave Sat 10 Dec - Cockpit Christmas Family Crafts (020 8807 6680 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk Children’s Charity (E1) For one night only, join (NW8) Create arty gifts for Christmas with the Cockpit Sat 3 Dec - Open Day at West Hampstead Fire hundreds of others dressed as Santa and run 5k around Crafty Crew! Create glittery, papery, and arty gifts for Station (NW6) An Open Day between 12-6pm, to the streets of London passing some of the most iconic Christmas, as well as eco-friendly snowflake mobiles celebrate London Fire Brigade’s 150th year. Children sites on the way. All money raised will go to Brainwave and pop-up cards. Expect to do fiddly folding, cutting big and small can meet real firefighters and life-sized Children’s Charity helping those with disabilities and and gluing. Suitable for 4 yrs up, 2-4pm. PLAYMOBIL ones, plus explore a real life fire engine, as additional needs. Over 18’s only. 8www.thecockpit.org.uk 8www.brainwave.org.uk/south-east-santa-dash/ well as enjoy toys and activities galore. Their aim is to Sat 10 Dec - Tinsel Toes Christmas Fair (EN2) teach future generations what our firefighters do and Thu 8 Dec - Annual Friends and Neighbours The Christmas Fair at the Dugdale Centre promises ensure little ones know to call 999 in an emergency. Christmas Party (WC2N) Celebrate the festive season a wonderland of performances, activities, stalls, There will also be the chance to look around the at the Benjamin Franklin Museum with friends of the demonstrations and appearances spread over two station and check out the equipment used by Brigade House and the Craven Street neighbours. In the great floors. There will be fun and entertainment for the firefighters. 8www.london-fire.gov.uk British holiday tradition, enjoy a mince pie, and a glass whole family and the promise to bring Christmas to you Sun 4 Dec - Christmas Carols at Keats House or two of homemade mulled wine! with the help of Father Christmas and his friends! (NW3) Get in the festive spirit with the New London Free – RSVP to *[email protected] 8www.clairewoodevents.co.uk/tinsle-toes-christmas- Children’s Choir. Admire the beautiful Christmas tree 8www.benjaminfranklinhouse.org fair and enjoy a special performance of all the Christmas Fri 9 Dec - Tue 3 Jan - Bygone Christmases! classics. Little poets can try their hand at making (EN2) Forty Hall was a family home from 1629 to the a regency silhouette Christmas decoration in Mrs 1950s and this magnificent building has seen many Brawne’s Kitchen. Children and adults welcome, from Christmases, celebrated by the people who have lived 3-3.45pm. Free with admission to Keats House, no there throughout the years. This is your chance to booking required. experience this beautiful building decked for different What's On continued on page 18... 8www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/keats-house

Crafty Christmas and creative New Year! 22, 23*, 28–30* December 10:00am–4.30pm *Museum open 10:00am–1:00pm Free admission

Holiday courses for children aged 7–13 who love to sing. A unique opportunity to learn about and perform a range of classical music with a dedicated team of choral professionals. Get creative this Christmas with a selection of Museum inspired crafts to design and decorate. Gold bar moneyboxes, door hangers and masks, the choice is yours. There’s a chocolate coin for every child. December 2016 10:00am–5:00pm Share your experience 19th & 20th Worcester College, Oxford Monday to Friday. 21st & 22nd St Catharine’s College, Cambridge Closed weekends and boemuseum Bank Holidays. Entrance 22nd & 23rd Heath St. Baptist Church, London, NW3 IDN in Bartholomew Lane, T: 020 7601 5545 London EC2R 8AH www.oxbridgesingingschool.co.uk www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum

NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 17 What’s On

Brick Flicks

Sun 11 Dec - Thats Entertainment: Make your Sat 17 Dec - A Celebration For Christmas Gift Day Fri 30th - Sat 31st Dec - It’s Party Time at the own Stage (NW1) Create a 3D pop-up theatre & Craft Fair (N10) A community event at St Mary & Museum of London (EC2Y) Take inspiration from the displaying your own fantastical stage show at the British St George Hornsey Parish Church, to prepare for the historical clothes on display in the museum’s collections Library. Using colour, collage and drawing, you could coming of Christmas. There will be illustrative art work to create your own party outfit! Grab some paper, some show a magician performing a mind-boggling illusion, and decorative items. Browse through the stalls to art straws, and get inspired. Will you wear yours at New an acrobat doing a jaw-dropping stunt or a juggling select perfect gifts, for yourself or someone special. Years? This is a drop-in workshop, so stop by anytime giraffe! Drop in between 2 & 3.30pm, suitable for ages [email protected] between 12.30-2pm, 2.30-4pm. 5 – 11 years. 8www.bl.uk 8www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sat 17 Dec - The 12 Days of Christmas Treasure Sun 11 Dec - Pop Up Vintage Fair (NW3) A Xmas Hunt (WC2H) The 12 Days of Christmas Treasure Hunt January Vintage fair at St Stephens in the heart of Belsize Park will take place at the National Portrait Gallery and is Fri 6 Jan - Farewell to Christmas (E2) Join in the & Hampstead High Street, with live vintage-style music based on Christmas carols. This is not a race, so you Geffrye’s own traditional burning of the holly and the and vintage tea rooms. Open from 11am-4pm. can take your time to explore in teams of 2 to 4 people. ivy, with carol singing, stories about Epiphany and a 8www.popupvintagefairs.co.uk Festive drinks and prizes included. Tickets must be pre- taste of mulled wine and Twelfth Night cake. This event booked. Over 18’s only. Starts at 2pm. takes place in the garden, so wrap up warm! Sun 11 Dec - Little Red Riding Hood (WC1R) This 8www.scavengerhunts.london/treasure-hunts 8www.geffrye-museum.org.uk classic fairytale is brought to life by musicians from the London Mozart Players and actress Rebecca Kenny, set Sun 18 Dec - Family Day: Festival of Lights (NW3) Thu 19th - Sun 22nd Jan - Frosted - A Family in Paul Patterson’s colourful setting at Conway Hall. A Hear wintry folktales from around the world with Pantomime (N13) The Saint Monica’s Players return magical children’s concert which is suitable for those storyteller Olivia Armstrong at Keats House. You can to the Intimate Theatre with Frosted – A Family aged 5-10 years, but open to all! also help light up the darkening nights by making a tea Pantomime. The story tells the tale of two Princesses as 8www.conwayhall.org.uk light holder using recycled materials. 1-4pm (Stories at one struggles to come to terms with the magical powers 1.30, 2.30 and 3.30pm) free, no booking required. she has been given. Can they survive the snow storm? Sun 11 - Sat 31 Dec - Brick Flicks (N12) Brick 8www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/keats-house Will they ever find true love? Or will their kingdom be Flicks is an exhibition of some of the most iconic and taken over by a wicked Prince? Watch the show to find memorable film moments of all time recreated by Mon 19 – Tue 20 Dec - Pokemon: Symphonic out how strong the bond between sisters can be and Warren Elsmore, the well-known artist in LEGO bricks. Evolutions (W6) Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions is that they’ll stop at nothing to look after each other. Enjoy large-scale images of LEGO recreations of iconic the must-see video game concert of the year at Eventim 8www.smptheatre.co.uk film scenes and movie posters, from Wayne’s World Apollo, giving fans and newcomers of all ages the to West Side Story, The Matrix to Mary Poppins. Each chance to experience the evolution of the Pokémon Thu 19 Jan – Sun 26 Feb – The Magical Lantern familiar scene has been carefully photographed to franchise like never before. Don’t miss this amazing Festival (W4)The historic Chiswick House Gardens will mimic the staging and lighting of the original movie, but opportunity to meet up with friends to catch, battle be transformed into a fairytale world of light sculptures, with the scenery, actors and actresses recreated with and trade Pokémon from your favourite games. Brought Chinese arts, Virtual Reality, games and food with a everyone’s favourite building blocks. How many can you to life by London’s own Royal Philharmonic Orchestra funfair and 600 square metre ice rink and ice bar. recognise - without reading the captions? At Artsdepot. performing all new arrangements and carefully timed 8www.magicallantern.uk 8www.warrenelsmore.com visuals from recent and classic Pokémon video games. 8www.pokemon.com/symphony. Fri 20 – Sun 22 Jan – The London Model Wed 14 Dec - The Sick Children’s Trust Christmas Engineering Exhibition (N22) Go along to Alexandra Carol Service 2016 (NW1) Enjoy a wonderful evening Tue 20 - Wed 21 Dec & Tue 27 – Wed 28 Dec Palace and see the full spectrum of modelling, from of traditional carols, seasonal readings, and musical - Winter Quest & Craft (NW3) Families will get to traditional model engineering, steam locomotives and performances at St Marylebone Parish Church; there’s work together to try out different art and crafts whilst traction engines through to the more modern gadget no better way to celebrate the festive season. This year exploring Kenwood House and finding out more about and boys toys including trucks, boats, aeroplanes, Barbara Windsor MBE and renowned soprano Margaret its collections. Just turn up between 12pm-3.30pm to helicopters and robots as featured on “The One Show”. Keys will be appearing alongside a host of other stars. take part. 8www.english-heritage.org.uk Visitors can travel between the show’s different zones, There will also be performances from the choir of trying the activities and watching fascinating and Thu 22 – Fri 23 & Wed 28 – Fri 30 Dec - Crafty Boutcher Primary School and guests are invited to stay technical demonstrations. Christmas and Creative New Year! (EC2R) Go along for wine and mince pies after the service finishes. 8www.londonmodelengineering.co.uk 8www.sickchildrenstrust.org to the Bank of England Museum this Christmas and get creative with a selection of Museum inspired crafts to design and decorate, including gold bar moneyboxes, door hangers and masks. There’s also a chocolate coin for every child. 8www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum

18 NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 Ice Rinks Compiled by Anna Blackshaw We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out. Get your skates on! Whether an ‘old pro’ or new to the sport, ice skating is a great family activity for a bit of fresh air and winter fun - and North London families are spoilt for choice of venues! Try one or try them all, but don’t delay as they are only here for a short time.

Dates TBC – Winterville Ice Rink (E9) Winterville is back for 2016, and will best international clubs and festivals at exclusive Club Nights. Everyone can be turning on the magic this winter with their very own sparkling outdoor brush up their skills at Skate School and young children can take their first Ice Rink. Open every day from 10am until late, creating memorable magic steps on the ice with Polar Cub Club. 8www.SomersetHouse.org.uk moments for families and friends. If you’re not one for gliding around the rink, then kick back with a winter warmer at the Boathouse Cafe, which Fri 18 Nov – Mon 2 Jan – Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland (W2) Experience offers superb vistas of all the action. 8www.winterville.co.uk the essence of Winter Wonderland as you don your skates and glide around the spectacular, glittering ice rink. Set around the Victorian bandstand and Thu 27 Oct – Sun 8 Jan – Natural History Museum Ice Rink (SW7) Set illuminated with over 100,000 lights, the Ice Rink provides a beautiful setting against the backdrop of Hintze Hall, the Ice Rink is one of the most magical for ice skating. 8www.HydeParkWinterWonderland.com places to be this winter. Experience the thrill of skating surrounded by fairy lights nestled in frost-covered trees, with the smell of mulled wine and Fri 18 Nov – Mon 2 Jan – Ice Rink at Wembley Park (HA9) Enjoy spectacular toasted marshmallows in the air. Soak up the atmosphere from the Café Bar ice skating next to the iconic Wembley Stadium and London Designer and balcony which has a bird’s-eye view of the rink and is open daily until Outlet. The outdoor sparkling ice rink is open to everyone, and there will the Ice Rink closes. 8www.nhm.ac.uk also be traditional family fairground rides offering something for everyone! An Alpine Cabin bar will be open every day serving mulled wine, and other Fri 4 Nov – Sat 25 Feb – Ice Rink Canary Wharf (E14) LUMINOCITY @ seasonal alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks which you can enjoy in a warm Ice Rink Canary Wharf is brightening up Canada Square Park this winter undercover marquee. 8www.IceSkatingatWembleyPark.co.uk with more than 8 km of LED lights laid beneath the ice. LUMINOCITY will showcase more than 16 million different colours every session and swathe Wed 18 Nov – Sun 3 Jan – Westfield London (W12) The approach of winter skaters in an abundance of magical light to create a truly immersive skating heralds the return of Westfield London’s coolest indoor ice rink presented experience. The ice rink is also fully covered by a clear roof to guarantee by, fashion and leather goods brand, Coach. The ice rink will be located in skating sessions whatever the weather. 8www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk the Atrium event space, boasting an impressive festive backdrop and after dark, sumptuous lighting and live music, makes late night skating a special Sat 5 Nov – Sun 15 Jan – Royal Pavilion Ice Rink (BN1) The most beautiful experience for friends and family. 8www.uk.westfield.com/london rink in the South East, Brighton’s Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is stunning, twinkly, romantic, and child-friendly... all topped off with beautiful food in the Wed 23 Nov – Sat 24 Dec – Willow’s Farm Village Festive Farm Fun (AL4) As rinkside bar and restaurant. 8www.royalpavilionicerink.co.uk part of their Santa Spectacular Grotto and Festive Farm Fun, Willow’s Farm will have a Magical Ice Rink (with synthetic ice). Great fun for the whole Wed 16 Nov – Tue 3 Jan - Ice at the Tower (EC3N) Say Hello to London’s family! 8www.willowsactivityfarm.com ‘coolest’ ice destination, and skate against the most dramatic backdrop in the city. For the very first time, in the heart of this world-class landmark, Sat 26 Nov – Sun 15 Jan - The BIG Skate (WD17) Crack open the mulled wine shrouded by mystery will be the immersive pop up Eis Haus Ice Experience. and heat up those mince pies - Watford’s Big Skate is back to fill you with Step into the glistening bar made completely from ice, as you are served in a festive cheer. You can sip on a hot drink and chow down on a sweet treat glass made of real ice and take in the jaw dropping views across the Tower. while watching the gliding skaters from the wooden ski lodge. 8 8www.toweroflondonicerink.co.uk/experience www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Thu 17 Nov – Mon 2 Jan – Bluewater’s Winter Wonderland (DA9) This Sun 11 Dec – Sun 8 Jan – JW3 Ice Rink (NW3) Head along to JW3’s ice rink, year the ice rink will be located in a brand new lakeside setting outside the as it returns for a fourth spectacular year! Whether you’re a complete West Village, with hot drinks and refreshments available from one of the newbie or you know your Double Lutz from your Triple Salchow, it’s a alpine cabins and a dazzling, giant Christmas tree at the centre. Perfect for wonderful day out with family, friends or a special someone. As well as the beginners or experienced skaters and skating lessons will be available. skating area, Zest café is open to all visitors (including non-skaters), so go 8www.bluewaterwinterwonderland.co.uk and warm up with a full range of tasty food and refreshments. 8www.jw3.org.uk Thu 17 Nov – Sun 15 Jan – Somerset House (WC2R) Skate at Somerset House with Fortnum & Mason and enjoy memorable winter experiences on and off the ice. By day, skate in the splendour of the stunning Somerset House courtyard, or head along after dark, when the rink hosts some of the

Hampton Court Palace

NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 19 Pantos & Seasonal Shows!

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out. The Ambassadors Theatre Wed 7 Dec – Mon 2 Jan - We’re Going On A Bear Hunt West Street, London, WC2H Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly (020 7395 5405 8www.theambassadorstheatre.co.uk (and noisily!) to the stage in this fun-filled adaptation. Join the intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick Fri 2 Dec – Sun 8 Jan – The Very Hungry Caterpillar oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on One of the most iconic characters in children’s literature will make his West End adventure – plus a few special surprises! Ages 3+ debut this Christmas! The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show will feature a menagerie of 75 enchanting puppets during a magical 60-minute show that faithfully adapts four Sun 18 – Wed 21 Dec - Comedy Club 4 Kids - Christmas Cracker of Eric Carle’s best loved books for the stage: The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse, All the fun of Comedy Club 4 Kids with a Christmas twist. Expect the finest Christmas Mister Seahorse, The Very Lonely Firefly and, of course, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Cracker jokes, tinsel tomfoolery, festive funnies and even Santa doing stand-up! Artsdepot Starring Comedy Club 4 Kids’ regular host Tiernan Douieb hims-elf, Howard Read of 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 Little Howard and CBBC fame, and a special guest – another of the comedy circuit’s (020 8369 5454 8www.artsdepot.co.uk finest – this show will be jam-packed with a whole heap of Christmas Comedy Fun to get you in the mood for the BIG DAY (you know, when the big red jolly guy comes down the chimney). Ages 6+ Cadogan Hall 5 Sloane Terrace, London SW1X (020 7730 4500 8www.cadoganhall.com

Sat 12 Nov - Family Jazz All-Stars featuring Zoe Gilby Zoe Gilby lends her stunning vocals to this fun-filled tribute to jazz singers past and present. Perfect for all the family, from children to grandparents!

Sat 17 Dec - The Snowman & We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Join the Orchestra of St Paul’s for the perfect festive family treat. The concert will begin with We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, an interactive retelling of the traditional children’s rhyme, with music by Ian Stephens. Take your favourite teddy, and prepare to join in with the story! This is followed by the ultimate Christmas Mr Popper's Penguins experience: a screening of The Snowman, shown on the big screen with Howard Blake’s instantly recognisable score played live. Wed 30 Nov – Sun 4 Dec – Mr Popper’s Penguins Sun 18 Dec - Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Christmas Cracker Painter and decorator by day, Mr Popper spends his time dreaming of Antarctic New for 2016 there are several additions to the Christmas Cracker programme, adventures. He is astounded when one day a packing crate arrives on his doorstep, including arrangements of Michael Bublé’s Christmas (Baby Please Come Home), out of which waddles a penguin! With songs, puppets and a family of performing the 1980’s festive favourite Last Christmas by Wham! and Mariah Carey’s immortal penguins, this delightful musical adaptation of Richard and Florence Atwater’s ballad All I Want For Christmas Is You – not forgetting the sing-along carols! popular book is brought to you by the producers of The Tiger Who Came to Tea and With special guest vocalists, this fun, festive concert is back for two delightful We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. Ages 3+ performances of sparkling festive songs and music. With Sloane Square lit up in all its Christmassy glory and the smells of mulled wine and mince pies, Christmas Sat 3 – Sun 4 Dec - The Night Before Christmas Cracker is sure to fill you with good cheer and get your Yuletide celebrations off to a On the night before Christmas, Emily stares out of the window, hugs her teddy and joyful start. waits excitedly for the morning, while in the corner a little mouse called Eddie can’t understand why only humans are allowed to get presents. So he sets off in search Thu 22 Dec - Father Christmas of Father Christmas to find out for himself. Along the way he dodges the family cat, A Christmas Treat for all the family! Raymond Brigg’s animated film Father Christmas gets directions from a cowardly robot and is given some unexpected advice from the is brought to the big screen this Christmas at Cadogan Hall with the Mozart magical fairy on top of the tree. Will Eddie get an answer? Will Emily get her wish? Symphony Orchestra supplying a live accompaniment. Featuring the voice of Simon And what is that funny-shaped present sitting under the tree? A magical festive tale Murray as Father Christmas this irreverent glimpse into Santa’s personal life will brought to you by the team behind Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! and Aliens have you and your kids rocking with laughter. Love Underpants. Ages 3+

HE’S BACK! A Wonderful New Musical

23 Nov - 7 Jan For ages 5+

LIVE LYRIC THEATRE SHAFTESBURY AVE BASED ON THE PICTURE BOOK BY JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER Box Office: 020 8292 9222 The Gruffalo © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffl er Scheffl and Axel © Julia Donaldson Gruffalo The Gruffalolive.com www.chickenshed.org.uk MONSTROUS FAMILY FUN Registered charity no 1012369

20 NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 Pantos & Seasonal Shows!

and Ojo the Unlucky Munchkin. We will travel along the famous Yellow Brick Road with a brave band of friends on a quest to release Ojo’s Uncle from an enchantment that has turned him to stone. Chickenshed’s famously large and diverse cast will wow and entrance audiences in this musical spectacle! Ages 5+ Cockpit Theatre Gateforth Street, London, NW8 (020 7258 2925 8www.thecockpit.org.uk

Sat 12 Nov - The Wonderful World of Lapin Tania has just arrived from Paris for a very special occasion: The World’s Tastiest Carrot Competition! In her leather trunk, she carries her very own garden, from which a whole world is revealed... A world of Tania’s animal friends, each of them desperate for a taste of her prize carrot. The wonderful world of Lapin! Narrated in English with French sentences from the puppets, the show is a fun and heart- warming bilingual piece of theatre, accessible to all non-French speakers. Ages 3-8 years

Sun 13 Nov - CHAT! Weary of the domestic comfort, a fat and naive cat goes on an adventure on the Parisian roofs. The indoor cat then experiences the hard-knock life of gutter cats: Underneath a Magical Moon he has to seek his food on his own through thick and thin. But that is the price of freedom! Following Zola’s Cat’s Paradise from which it is adapted, ‘Chat!’ deals Chickenshed with the topic of dependence, easy and comfortable, and freedom, exhilarating but Chase Side Southgate N14. challenging. A family show providing musical fun and storytelling for all ages. (020 8292 9222 8www.chickenshed.org.uk Criterion Theatre 218-223 Piccadilly, Piccadilly Circus, London. W1V Sat 5 Nov - A Winter’s Tales 0844 815 6131 www.criterion-theatre.co.uk Cosy up at Chickenshed with an entertaining outing for all the family to enjoy Tales from the Shed performances and interactive workshops around the theatre, Thurs 15 Dec – Sat 31 Dec – Mr Popper’s Penguins whether you’re familiar with the Tales world or coming along for the first time. Painter and decorator by day, Mr Popper spends his time dreaming of Music, dance, storytelling and games with Lion Down, The Thing That Goes Blurgh Antarctic adventures. He is astounded when one day a packing crate arrives and many other much-loved Tales characters will warm you up a treat! on his doorstep, out of which waddles a penguin! With songs, puppets Ages 0-6yrs and a family of performing penguins, this delightful musical adaptation of Richard and Florence Atwater’s popular book is brought to you by the Wed 23 Nov – Sat 7 Jan - Adventure to Oz producers of Hetty Feather (2015 Olivier Award nominee). Ages 4+ The world premiere of a brand new musical! In this dazzling production, we will meet familiar faces like Dorothy, the Scarecrow and the Tin Man, and we will also be introduced to new and memorable characters such as the incredible Patchwork Girl Continued on page 22..

NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 21 Pantos & Seasonal Shows!

Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 (020 7226 1787 8www.littleangeltheatre.com

Tue 1 – Sun 20 Nov – Let’s Fly Can you fly? Just Imagine if you could. What does your home look like when you’re as high as the birds and the aeroplanes? Or even a spaceship… let’s find out! Emily has a secret; she knows how to fly and she wants you to come on an adventure with her. Hold her hand and soar over cities, float above oceans and glide across mountains. You’ve never seen the whole world until you’ve sat on top of a cloud. Ages 2-6 years

Thu 24 – Sun 27 Nov - The Lost Things A boy falls and finds himself in a dark and terrifying new world. It’s a world of lost things: car keys, wedding rings, dads, and a mysterious girl who is building an amazing machine. Performed in a unique dome structure, The Lost Night Before Christmas Things is about losing things and finding things you didn’t even know you were looking for. This is a dark fairytale set in a fantastical world, where nothing is quite as it seems. Dugdale Theatre Ages 8-12 years 39 London Road, Enfield, EN2 (020 8807 6680 8www.enfield.gov.uk Sat 26 Nov – Sun 29 Jan - A Very Old Man With Enormous Wings The world’s been sad since Tuesday. Wed 30 Nov – Fri 30 Dec - Christmas Tales Presented by Chickenshed The child has a fever and is hotter than a fish on a spit, the dog chases its tail, Christmas Tales is an amazingly fun and festive show from the creative team behind Mother dreams of a new broom and Father gazes out to sea. The whole village is on the hugely popular Tales from the Shed. The show is a full-on family Talesomime the brink. Then the sky gets frisky, the sea rears up and, in a bolt of lightning, a very (a pantomime starring all the favourite Tales characters) and it’s going to be high old man with enormous wings crashes to earth in a flurry of feathers. Nothing will energy, interactive and brilliantly entertaining... Oh no, it’s not! Oh yes, it is! So take ever be the same again! your little ones to The Dugdale Centre this festive season and Can-Can, The Thing Ages 7+ That Goes Blurgh and the Tales team will be right ‘behind you’! Ages 0-6 years Thu 8 Dec – Sun 29 Jan - Me… The world is a very big place, especially for a tiny baby penguin who is just finding Jacksons Lane her feet. The shimmering stars and glistening snow spin around our little hero, while 269a Archway Road, London, N6 the mountains tower high and the wind rushes to and fro. (020 8341 4421 8www.jacksonslane.org.uk And although baby penguin may be small, her family know she’s the biggest thing of all. This early years favourite is a lovely and touching story about a parent and their Sun 6 Nov - Underneath A Magical Moon love for their child by much loved children’s author Emma Dodd. Through her open window Wendy Darling gazes out at the night sky dreaming of Ages 2 to 6 years blue lagoons, magical moons and the stories that she can tell. But tonight, like no other, has magic in the air... Tutti frutti and York Theatre Royal team up with leading playwright Mike Kenny to re-imagine the enchanting story of Peter Pan as told by Wendy. A sparkling new production with exquisite music, enthralling movement and a sprinkle of tutti frutti magic. Suitable for ages 3+

Tue 6 – Sat 24 Dec - We’re Going On A Bear Hunt A family go on an expedition of a lifetime – running down the grassy bank, wading through the cold river, squelching over the oozy mud, stumbling into the dark forest, then peering into a cave… what will they find? Little Angel Theatre brings Michael THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TRADITION FOR ALL THE FAMILY Rosen’s thrilling and funny adventure to life in this entrancing puppetry production directed by Peter Glanville and with music and lyrics by renowned singer-songwriter Barb Jungr. NUTCRACKER Ages 2+

FESTIVE KENNY WAX FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT & TC BEECH PRESENT FAMILY FUN

BASED ON THE NOVEL BY RICHARD & FLORENCE ATWATER ★★★★★ ‘PURE THEATRICAL MAGIC’ London Theatre 1 14 DEC – 7 JAN

Children go half-price!* *T&Cs apply. CRITERION THEATRE ballet.org.uk/nutcracker THU 15 - SAT 31 DEC BOOK TICKETS 0844 815 6131

Illustrations Copyright © Kenny Wax Family Entertainment 2015 Illustrations Copyright © Kenny Wax criterion-theatre.co.uk For ages 4-104

22 NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 Pantos & Seasonal Shows!

London Coliseum The Peacock Theatre St Martin’s Lane, London, WC2N Portugal Street London WC2A 020 7845 9300 www.ballet.org.uk 020 7863 8222 www.peacocktheatre.com

Wed 14 Dec – Sat 7 Jan - Nutcracker Wed 23 Nov – Sun 1 Jan - The Snowman Over 100 dancers and musicians bring Nutcracker to life with exquisite dancing, A perennial family favourite. The Snowman has transported a generation of children beautiful sets and Tchaikovsky’s glorious score played live. and their families into the wintery world of a boy and his magical snowman. As a On a sparkling Christmas Eve in a frost-dusted Edwardian London, Clara and her friendship is kindled, the two embark on a starry-skied adventure to the North Pole, enchanted Nutcracker doll discover a magical world, where she battles with the where they meet dancing penguins, reindeer, Father Christmas and escape the Mouse King and meets a handsome stranger. Nutcracker returns in 2016 following clutches of Jack Frost. hugely successful performances last year, where over 73000 audience members, young and old, made it part of their holiday celebrations. Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 Lyric Theatre (020 7249 6876 8www.puppetbarge.com Jacksons Lane, 269a Archway Road, London, N6 5AA 020 8348 0080 www.GruffaloLive.com Sat 3 Dec – Sun 8 Jan - A Christmas Carol See Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future brought to life by Until Mon 16 Jan – The Gruffalo Live the puppets. Ages 4+ Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaption of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel The Shaw Theatre Scheffler. Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old 100-110 Euston Road, London, NW1 Owl and the party mad Snake. (0844 248 5075 8www.shaw-theatre.com Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? Sat 10 – Fri 30 Dec - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Pantomime After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there? Go and join in the festive fun and excitement, including a Good Fairy, a Magic Mirror and the silliest Seven Dwarfs you’ve ever seen. A pantomime bursting with great Millfield Theatre songs, fantastic dance routines and plenty of laughter, this is a tremendous treat for Silver Street, London, N18 all the family you won’t want to miss! Heigh-Ho… Heigh-Ho… It’s off to panto we go! (020 8807 6680 8www.enfield.gov.uk The Unicorn Theatre Thu 24 Nov – Sat 31 Dec - Aladdin 147 Tooley Street, Southwark, London An Aladdin’s cave of unmissable entertainment is guaranteed in a show packed with 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com spectacular special effects, stunning costumes, beautiful scenery and, of course, lots of comedy that will have the whole family laughing long after the curtain comes Tue 15 Nov – Sat 31 Dec - Baddies - The Musical down. Complete with a magical flying carpet, Millfield audiences can expect a wish- The Big Bad Wolf’s in trouble – he’s been ripped out of his story and thrown into granting genie, an evil sorcerer and a lamp-full of laughter, music and dance in the jail for being too good at being bad. But playing the villain’s the best part. Everyone north London’s biggest family pantomime. knows that… Along with fellow offenders Rumpelstiltskin, The Ugly Sisters and Captain Hook, the Big Bad Wolf is determined to find out who’s decided to change the fairytale rulebook and why. How are you supposed to tell who the good guys are when there are no baddies around? Ages 6+

The magical Christmas show for all the family FESTIVE FAMILY FUN!

Adapted from the book written by LIVE ON STAGE Michael Rosen and illustrated based on Raymond Briggs’ by Helen Oxenbury The Snowman Music and lyrics by Howard Blake ‘Ingenious’ ‘Enchanting’ Daily Mail BBC Radio Bristol

© Snowman Enterprises Ltd 1982, 2012 1982, Ltd Enterprises Snowman © “Sheer theatrical magic. Go see The Snowman and melt” The Times

Featuring ‘Walking in FAMILY TICKET ONLY £115 the Air’ 4 tickets, must include at least one child Transaction fee applies. Max £3 23 Nov - 1 Jan WED 7 DEC - MON 2 JAN www.artsdepot.co.uk artsdepot does not charge booking fees

020 8369 5454 North Finchley // London N12 bearhunt live .com 020 7863 8222 peacocktheatre.com Holborn

NORTH LONDON November/December 2016 23 HHHHH ‘The Unicorn has a big hit on its hands’ Evening Standard HHHH HHHH HHHH The Guardian The Sunday Times The Stage

15 NOV – 31 DEC

THE HIT SHOW RETURNS THIS CHRISTMAS - BOOK NOW!