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Make someone’s New Year sweeter

The Phoenix Sweetie Shop is now open at the MAC

Phoenix Natural Gas has launched its Christmas competition that promises to help one little visitor say thank you to that someone special in their life that’s helped make it a little bit sweeter.

As part of its sponsorship of the MAC’s Christmas show, Hansel & Gretel, the Phoenix Sweetie Shop will take centre stage on the ground floor of the arts venue. Over the next six weeks, the Phoenix Sweetie Shop is expected to attract close to 500 families who will interact, take photos and of course make lots of nominations.

This fantastic competition was launched yesterday (Sunday 19 November) at the annual Christmas light switch on at the MAC, where hundreds of families came out in their winter woollies to renew their family tradition and help celebrate the magic of Christmas at the MAC.

Speaking on their Phoenix Sweetie Shop, Geri Wright, Communications Manager at Phoenix Natural Gas said: “As a community-focused organisation, we are delighted to be partnering with the MAC once again and sponsoring its Christmas show, Hansel and Gretel.

“Our Phoenix Sweetie Shop is free for families to step inside and explore; and we are encouraging everyone visiting to nominate a sweetie in their life that deserves to be rewarded. This could be anyone from your teacher, lollipop warden, sports coach, mum and dad; to grandparents, siblings or even your favourite pet. From all the entries received we will choose one worthy person (or pet) to receive a much-deserved special treat in the new year.

“Last year, we called for Christmas wishes and were overwhelmed by the number of heartfelt wishes and stories received. As a result, we were able to donate £1,500 to The Welcome Organisation, as the biggest wish from the little visitors was to end homelessness.

“Whilst Christmas is the season for giving, I have no doubt we will receive a plethora of nominations that demonstrates the breadth of kindness and goodwill present all year round.

This weekend also saw the MAC switch on its fantastic Christmas tree display and stars of the venue’s Christmas show, Hansel & Gretel, popped up to treat families to a mini performance. The Christmas light switch on marks the start of a whole host of Christmas activities at the MAC for everyone to enjoy. Its Christmas show Hansel & Gretel, which is sponsored by Phoenix Natural Gas, opens Tuesday 28 November.

Performed with enchanting staging, a local cast and an original acoustic score, the MAC’s own production of Hansel & Gretel will take audiences on a fun adventure where they will discover why friendship, laughter and family are essential for the perfect Christmas.

The Phoenix Sweetie Shop will remain in place on the ground floor of the MAC throughout Christmas until 7th January 2018 and is completely free to visit. The MAC and Phoenix invites you to come along and nominate your sweetie.