As the festive season draws closer and the twinkling lights begin to appear, we’re ready to wrap up the year in style – and there’s still time to join us for some seriously magical moments with three fantastic festive productions to brighten your December. At The Mill, families can enjoy the much-loved Stick Man (9th – 14th December), based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, and a beautiful family ballet version of The Nutcracker (17th – 24th December) from the Let’s All Dance Ballet Company.
Then just a short train ride away, we’re bringing the magic to Bicester as part of our Out of The Mill programme, where we’ll be transforming Bicester Leisure Centre into a full 200-seat auditorium for a very special Christmas show. There’s a Monster in Your Christmas Show (23rd – 29th December) is a high-energy production designed especially for younger children and their grown-ups. With catchy songs and colourful characters based on Tom Fletcher’s book series, it’s been described by Mother & Baby Magazine as ‘the perfect toddler theatre show!’ Whether you’re looking for a Christmas Eve outing or a joyful Twixmas treat, this is a must-see for families in Bicester and beyond!
As the tinsel comes down and we head into a brand new year, we’re turning up the volume with a line-up of live music that’s guaranteed to lift your spirits. For fans of classic rock, Dire Streets (3rd January) bring the unmistakable sounds of Dire Straits to life with an incredible level of detail and musicianship – it’s no wonder they’ve earned a reputation as one of the UK’s top tribute acts.
We’re also thrilled to welcome the return of award-winning Adele tribute artist Natalie Black with her stunning Hometown Glory Candlelit Concert (9th January). This heartfelt and intimate show sees Natalie take her globally successful production to a new level with her most vulnerable performance to date.
And if you’re in the mood for something soulful, Legends of Motown (17th January) deliver an electric celebration of some of the greatest hits ever recorded. With pitch-perfect harmonies and an infectious rhythm, this powerhouse show features songs from Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Smokey Robinson and many more – a night of nostalgia awaits!
For something a little different, step into the extraordinary world of mountain adventure with Simon Yates of Touching The Void: My Mountain Life (21st January). Best known for his role in the true story behind Touching the Void, Simon takes audiences behind the scenes of one of the most dramatic survival stories in mountaineering history. With wit, dry humour and breathtaking imagery, Simon reflects on his fateful decision on a remote Peruvian mountain, that saved both his and Joe Simpson’s lives, and shares tales from a lifetime of climbing in some of the most remote corners of the planet. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply a fan of true stories well told, this is an unforgettable evening of adventure and inspiration.
So whether you’re planning a festive family outing or an inspiring evening with friends, we can’t wait to welcome you through the doors this winter.
Be sure to book your tickets early, as these incredible events are selling fast. Visit our website or pick up our What’s On Guide to discover what’s on at your local theatre!
Full details of our programme are available at www.themillartscentre.co.uk. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone 01295 279002 – or pop into our Box Office in person at The Mill Arts Centre, Spiceball Park Road, Banbury OX16 5QE. The Mill is open 9:30am-4:30pm Monday-Saturday with hot and cold drinks and light refreshments available from the Café Bar.
