Z-arts knows how to make Christmas truly magical, and this year’s festive offering, Christmas Lights, is a sparkling treat for the tiniest theatre-goers! Created by the brilliant Filskit Theatre, this enchanting show is perfect for children aged 1-4 and their families. Blending playful storytelling, stunning visuals, and integrated BSL/Makaton for an inclusive and immersive theatre experience. Christmas Lights promises a cosy, joyful start to the holiday season, and for many young ones, it’s their first step into the wonderful world of theatre.
The story follows Alvie and Kit, two lovable friends on a whimsical quest to light up their house in time for Christmas. But, as they quickly discover, their twinkling lights have a mischievous mind of their own! The story unfolds with minimal dialogue, making it easy for little ones to follow. With themes of friendship, problem-solving, and the beauty of working together, the narrative is simple yet deeply engaging for young audiences. My children, Alice (7) and Leo (5), were utterly captivated by the glowing house and its playful surprises, and they couldn’t stop giggling at the light antics. The story radiates warmth, teaching little ones about the magic of companionship and creativity.
The sensory-rich set design is a winter wonderland brought to life. Soft green rugs resembling grass welcomed us into the “garden,” setting the tone for an immersive experience. My son Leo couldn’t resist running his fingers over the plush textures, and the snowy cabin backdrop, adorned with glistening lights, was picture-perfect. The lighting design stole the show, as the cabin’s lights flickered and danced in a rainbow of colours. Leo gleefully called out each colour change, while Alice sat wide-eyed, mesmerised.
The twinkling lights and glowing effects enchanted both children and adults, while the gentle, original music provided a soothing backdrop. Costumes were simple but effective, allowing the focus to remain on the vibrant storytelling and sensory elements. enhancing the cosy, magical atmosphere. The post-show play session was a delightful addition, with snowballs, colourful organza scarves, glow-up balls and hidden treasures in the cabin that kept the children giggling and exploring.
The cast of two, playing Alvie and Kit, delivered heartfelt performances. Their ability to communicate through physicality and Makaton ensured every child felt included. Their warmth and energy were infectious, making the audience feel like part of the adventure. The gentle, interactive approach was perfect for engaging even the youngest viewers, and the performers' genuine enthusiasm shone through in every moment.
Christmas Lights at Z-arts is a sparkling gem of a production that perfectly captures the wonder of the festive season. It’s a sensory feast designed with love for the littlest theatre-goers, blending playfulness with a heartwarming story about friendship. While the recommended age range is 1–4, my children, Alice (7) and Leo (5), absolutely loved it. Both are on the autistic pathway, and the show’s sensory-rich design—with its glowing lights, interactive play elements, and gentle music—was perfect for them. It kept them engaged from start to finish and demonstrated how this production transcends age brackets, creating a truly magical and inclusive experience for all.
Alice and Leo adored every moment, from the mesmerising light show to the snowball-filled playtime. If you’re looking for a magical, family-friendly Christmas outing, this is it. Whether it’s your child’s first trip to the theatre or a cherished family tradition, this show is a must-see.
Z-arts and Filskit Theatre have truly created something special—Christmas Lights isn’t just a show; it’s an experience filled with joy, laughter, and festive cheer. Don’t miss this dazzling Christmas adventure!
Christmas Lights is at Z-Arts until Monday 30th December 2024. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.
Photo Credit - Sarah Monaghan
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.
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