Did you know there are 8 theatres in the Reading area?
If you choose to experience Christmas in the UK this winter break and stay in Reading, it’s a unique opportunity to explore the local area and connect with the local culture (did you know there are 8 theatres nearby?). Student Local Guide, Daria, shares her ideas for memorable festive-themed cultural events.
Christmas Classic Cinema Night: Shop Around The Corner
Friday 20th December 2024, 19:30
Set in the build up to Christmas the film explores love and loneliness and doesn’t shy away from the slightly darker side of the festive season. Alfred Kralik (James Stewart) and Klara Novak (Margaret Sullavan) are colleagues at Matuschek and Company, a general store in Budapest. Klara and Alfred dislike each other in person but love each other as pen pals.
Stand Up Cinema is a collaboration between The Rising Sun, Real Time Video and the Open Mind Group.
Free entry, free popcorn
The Deckchairs Christmas Party at Reading legendary bar Purple Turtle
Wednesday 18th December 2024, from 20:00 to 22:30 – free entry
And Christmas Eve Party– Tuesday 24th December, 20:00 to 03:00 – free entry
The Snow Queen at Reading Rep Theatre
29 Nov 2024 – 31 Dec 2024
Set against in the world of snow and magic, The Snow Queen follows Gerda as she undertakes a brave and heartfelt journey to find her friend Kai. Taken by the Snow Queen and trapped under her spell, Kai’s fate rests on Gerda’s determination, as she navigates challenges that test the depth of her love and courage.
Based on the Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless writing, Reading Rep’s production revitalises the well-known tale, gifting the audience a truly heart-warming experience.
Reading Rep is renowned for reinterpreting classics, championing new writing, experimenting with theatrical forms, and committing to community engagement. Its productions have gained national attention, with some transferring to prestigious venues across the UK.
Tickets: £5 for Reading University students with the promo code UOR5 or call the box office to reserve discounted tickets.
For those who speak English as a second language, it might be useful to attend captioned performance. The Snow Queen Captioned Performance is running on 18th December at 18:30.
Students are also welcome to volunteer as ushers, receiving two complimentary tickets per production. Find the application form on the website under the ‘Join Us’ section.
Candlelight: Christmas Movie Soundtracks
Thursday 19th December 2024, 19:30
Set in a historic venue illuminated by arrays of luminaires, this live music concert promises to transport you into a magical ambience. These concerts, held nationwide, are appreciated for the professionalism of the musicians, the live music experience, and their thematic concepts—such as Christmas movie soundtracks.
Check the programme on the website to decide if this could be a nice treat for yourself.
Tickets: £20 (unfortunately, no student concession available).
Candlelit Christmas Concert at the Minster
Saturday 21st December 2024, 17:00
Reading Male Voice Choir and Occasions Singers unite to provide a concert of joy and hope for Christmas. This family-friendly event is packed with festive melodies and sing-along carols.
Tickets: £7.50
For more events check Christmas in Reading and New Year in Reading pages