Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas’ festive delivery to children’s ward
Children at Derriford Hospital were in for a festive treat recently when Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas, stopped by with a festive delivery.
The star of Theatre Royal Plymouth’s (TRP) magical children’s show visited the ward accompanied by his faithful cat and puppeteer Christopher Finn.
Father Christmas spent time with the children, ranging from just a few weeks old to teenagers, giving gifts and spreading joy.
The visit aimed to share the magic of theatre beyond TRP’s stages, whilst bringing festive cheer to those who might not be able to celebrate at home this year.
‘Obviously, this is a very busy time for Father Christmas, but he was genuinely delighted to take time out of his preparations to visit the children at Derriford Hospital,’ says Ryan Wilce, Producer at Theatre Royal Plymouth.
‘Bringing a touch of Christmas joy to youngsters in our region and families experiencing challenges captures the true spirit of the season.’
‘Seeing the smiles on the youngsters’ faces reminds us of the power of theatre and how stories and characters have the power to lift spirits.’
‘Alongside this, the show has offered opportunities for us to engage with young people across the city; from toddlers discovering story time and theatre for the first time to teens navigating their career aspirations.’
Image provided by Theatre Royal Plymouth
‘Seeing the smiles on the youngsters’ faces’
The visit to Derriford Hospital was made possible through a partnership with Theatre Royal Plymouth and University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust.
The TRP team explains it’s also part of the theatre’s ongoing commitment to its community and young people which has seen them working to actively engaging with local audiences.
The theatre’s weekly interactive storytelling group for two to four year olds is called Tiny Tales.
It’s been taking the Raymond Briggs’ story to libraries across the city over the festive period, including Plymouth Central, Plymstock, St Budeaux and Crownhill. They’ve read to around 150 children in total.
Participants of Theatre Royal Plymouth’s Young Company, which runs termly sessions for youngsters interested in working in The Arts, were able to explore the Father Christmas set and speak to the producers about careers in theatre.
Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas is in The Drum until Sunday 28 December.
Breaktime News recently reported on Theatre Royal Plymouth’s fundraising programme for community projects, including the launch of Young Company – Our Space.
