Snapped: Wyvern Theatre Fmaily Fun Day

Following last year's highly successful event the Wyvern Theatre another Family Fun Day on Saturday the first of November. TGtS was there to enjoy the theatrical delights on show...

Basil Brush made his guest appearance at 11am, ahead of performing in Swindon next year. He said “the Swindon family fun day is going to be booming marvellous fun, and I'm so excited to meet folks of Swindon I could burst BOOOOOOM! But any advice for tackling the 'magic roundabout' will be great fully received.. It could be 'boom' 'boom' ‘crash’ ‘wallop’ on my way in…ha ha... See you there for jelly babies and bring your cameras for a selfie!”

Basil was joined by other characters throughout the Sunday – such as; Octonauts’ Captain Barnacles, Head Elf from Dear Santa, as well as Dick Whittington himself.

“The Wyvern has always been a great place for families to enjoy time together,” said Theatre Director Derek Aldridge. “I really look forward to throwing open the doors to children of all ages to come and see – for free – what their local theatre has to offer.”

In addition to the characters from upcoming shows, there were number of free events taking place – which parents and children can book in advance by calling the Ticket Office on 01793 524 48101793 524 481. These events included:

• Mini Mover taster sessions in The Place at 10am and 10:45am, suitable for developing babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers;
• Dick Whittington story time on stage at the Wyvern Theatre with Dr Clare Taylor and a special appearance from this year’s pantomime star, Dick Whittington. This event is suitable for 6 to 10 years old and their parents;
• Sixth Sense Theatre Company will lead workshops throughout the day – a 3-hour play workshop for 13+, plus two drama workshops split into age groups 5-8 and 9-12;
• Traditional entertainment from Punch and Judy will be performed in The Place at 11:30am and 12:30pm;
• At 11:30am, Sir Roger Gifford will be speaking to a small audience in The Pantomime Suite about The City of London and Career Opportunities for young people aged 18 and over;

Sixth Sense Theatre Company’s Artistic Director, Mark Powell, said “as well as running Swindon Youth Theatre at the Wyvern Theatre, we’re thrilled to be able to be part of this year’s Family Fun Day and work together to offer remarkable opportunities for local young people.”

HSBC was also at the Family Fun Day handing out free piggy banks to children so they can start saving early; students from Swindon New College’s Production Arts (Make-Up) BTEC was using make-up to provide families with bogus bruises and sham scars; and there was even the chance to decorate (and devour) some cupcakes in the Wyvern Theatre’s café!