Midlands and Shropshire theatre round-up

Since 1976 SWA has supported thousands of women and children experiencing or fleeing domestic and sexual violence in Staffordshire.

In recent weeks, women and children from SWA have been participating in workshops, led by artists Helen Wilson and Mark Uttley from the Independent Community Arts Partnership (ICAP), in order to create 1D light catchers themed in the style of the Aladdin pantomime, which runs from Thursday (8th December 2016) until January 8.

Workshop facilitator Helen Wilson said: "Everyone who has participated in these workshops has done so brilliantly – drawing characters and patterns associated with Aladdin or Chinese art, which is no easy task. Each of the women and children involved has also cut out their designs to create templates in order to recreate their designs in vinyls, which are then attached to clear acetates. The work will look great once showcased collectively at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre."

Dickie James Chief Executive of SWA said: "We are so appreciative of this support from ICAP, made possible by Staffordshire County Council's Community Arts Fund and Stafford Gatehouse Theatre.

"The women and children we support so often have very low self-esteem, and creative, collective activities like this help rebuild their sense of belief in their abilities. The end product of the workshops gives them a strong sense of achievement, and the support given enables them to feel they matter. It's such a positive initiative."

Workshop participants will also be attending a performance of Aladdin courtesy of Stafford Gatehouse Theatre. The work will be on show at the Gatehouse for the duration of the Panto.

Staffordshire Women's Aid currently runs a 24-hour confidential helpline for women struggling with domestic violence. Those who need help or advice can contact the organisation on 0870 2700 123 or find more information at www.staffordshirewomensaid.org

Aladdin the "Wok 'n' Roll" Pantomime runs until January 8 and tickets can be booked by calling the box office on 01785 619080 or by visiting www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk.

Meanwhile, Lichfield's Garrick Theatre is providing the antidote to the festive season with Crimes Against Christmas.

Venue spokeswoman Rhiannon Brearley said: "Christmas is a time of year for family and children, but sometimes as an adult you just need to get away. This year the Lichfield Garrick is teaming up with critically acclaimed comedy company, New Old Friends, to present something a little different for adults only, an Anti-Panto if you will.

"Crimes Against Christmas is a new comedy thriller that sees a host of characters invited to a party in a mysterious house on a remote island.

"No sooner has the party started than the guests start dying in suspiciously Christmassy ways: the Lords they are a-leaping to their deaths, lead pipes are piping people's heads in and guest of honour Pete Artridge does not like the look of the rope in the pear tree one bit. Think Agatha Christie meets 12 Days of Christmas meets 39 Steps."

The show opens tonight and runs until December 31.

The theatre is also showing a traditional pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, which will run until December 31 and stars Cbeebies' presenter Rebecca Keatley, best known for her role in the smash hit TV show, Let's Play. Rebecca plays Fairy Moonbeam in Sleeping Beauty and is really looking forward to performing on the Lichfield stage.

Rebecca said: "I'm extremely excited about performing in Sleeping Beauty. The rehearsal process has been incredible. Working with such a talented cast and crew has been a dream come true. For those who have already bought a ticket you're in for a treat, the music, set and script are truly magical, witty and entertaining. And, if you haven't bought a ticket, what are you waiting for?!? They're selling out fast."

This year's cast also includes local Dame, Sam Rabone, children's author Ian Billings as the King, West End actress Siani Owen as Carabosse (yes you can boo her!), Lloyd Davies as the Prince, and a welcome return to Jo-anne Stevens who plays Sleeping Beauty.

Children's entertainer, Ben Thornton will also make his Lichfield Garrick debut as Jangles the Jester in the festive show.

Ben added: "It's been great to meet the people of Lichfield and I'm so excited to be spending Christmas in this beautiful city. I'm looking forward to bringing some fun, laughter and silliness to Sleeping Beauty. It's going to be an amazing few weeks, don't miss it!"