The Siege of Christmas

Looking for a family festive show with a difference? Then the Siege of Christmas at the Contact Theatre is well worth a look.

I was invited along to review it tonight along with my 12 and 14 year old boys. To be honest I wasn't sure what to expect and I was worried they might find it a bit babyish. But I was pleasantly surprised as we all enjoyed it and came out smiling. It was lovely to see some of the young children really getting into the story and joining in. But looking around the adults all looked like they were enjoying it too.

Photo credit Joel Chester-Fildes

So what's different about it? Well for a start you don't have a seat. You stick on a pair of headphones and are taken on a magical mystery tour around the building on a mission to save the spirit of Christmas meeting various characters along the way.  Perfect for fidgety little ones with some audience participation to keep them interested

Photo credit Joel Chester-Fildes

Although the show isn't very long at only one hour, they manage to fit plenty in. What's really great is the small cast of young, enthusiastic actors who made the characters come alive and the well decorated scenes along the way. It was also quite interesting to see some of the backstage areas you wouldn't normally get to venture. What really sells the show though is the engaging story, that is simple enough for young children to follow, whilst still keeping the interest of the grown ups.

Despite having lived in Manchester for over 25 years I'd never been to the Contact Theatre before and to be honest wasn't really sure where it was - within the Manchester University complex of buildings in case you're wondering. My top tip - get the bus, or the train, or even the tram and walk - but leave the car at home. Trying to find our way to the car park caused major stress and a lot of driving in circles and u-turns - who knew you couldn't just drive down Oxford Road anymore. If you do decide to drive, bring a £2 coin with you - the nearest car park must be the only one in Manchester not to accept £1 coins.

Photo credit Joel Chester-Fildes

So if you fancy a change from the traditional panto, where you don't know what is going to happen next with a lovely story to enjoy, and if you want to avoid the crush and the queue for the loo at the big theatres and watch a show in a select group, The Siege of Christmas is the one to watch.




It's running at The Contact Theatre until Wednesday 20th December with shows daily at 11am, 2pm and 6pm. Visit the Contact Manchester website for more info & to book