Launching our enchanting Christmas programme
From the magical Cinderella – the Midnight Princess by Cahoots and the MAC, to free drop-in bauble making, there is something for everyone in the MAC’s 2022 Christmas programme when Christmas officially arrives at the venue from next week.
The centrepiece of the Christmas programme is a unique and magical adaptation of Cinderella which takes to the stage from 30th November, co-produced by the MAC and award-winning children's theatre company, Cahoots. Starring Belfast’s own Corrie Earley, Jayne Wisener as the Fairy Godmother and Richard Croxford as the King, Cinderella promises to be a heart-warming family show packed with magical moments, incredible illusions and stunning songs inspired by Mozart.
Paul Bosco McEneaney, director at Cahoots said: “Cinderella - The Midnight Princess marks Cahoots’ return to the main stage in the MAC for the first time since Christmas 2018, and after the past few challenging years we are thrilled to finally be back!
“A show now years in the making, we are delighted that it’s now finally possible to share it with young audiences and families in the hugely magical way it deserves to be seen.”
Anne McReynolds, Chief Executive at the MAC said: “We are thrilled to welcome audiences back fully this Christmas. It’s our most wonderful time of the year, and we’ve missed it. Cahoots' work is consistently fantastic and we are delighted to be working together again. Our theatres will be bouncing with spectacular shows, with the magical Cinderella and the naughty but hilarious Christmas show for adults On the Shelf.
As usual, we aim to be as inclusive as possible and will be operating our relaxed breakout space on the 6th floor for any child or young person who finds the experience of visiting the theatre overwhelming and have a host of accessible performances too. No matter your background, age or circumstances, we welcome you back to your special space this Christmas. There’s plenty of activity happening that doesn’t cost a penny, including our free playroom which is open every day and our magical Christmas tree in the foyer.”
Roisin McDonough, Chief Executive, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, principal funder of the MAC added, "The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is excited to see the new Christmas programme launched by the MAC today. With a wide range of exhibitions, theatre shows and family activities, this dynamic art centre in the heart of our city is the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit.
“I would encourage everyone who wants to enjoy some festive fun this year to have a look at what is on offer at the MAC, and go along to some of the fantastic shows and workshops."
Cinderella is just one highlight of the festive programme. Featuring star of Derry Girls, Tara Lynne O’Neill, ‘On the Shelf’ is a Christmas show strictly for grown-ups, chronicling the events of a night in for 40-something Paula who has just about given up on love. A one-hour show that packs a punch in more ways than one, audiences can experience the mayhem from 9 December.
