Stage: Children’s ballet Goldilocks and the Three Bears and classic Sooty & Sweep

In a world dominated by electronic gadgetry it’s good to see that live theatre is still producing material for kids. Never was it more important to develop the love of live performance arts to future generations than now so here are two easy to access and enjoy productions specifically amied at children.

Northern Ballet brings the much-loved children’s story Goldilocks and the Three Bears to life in an enchanting and heartwarming production which will be performed at The Hawth. This is the perfect opportunity for little ones to enjoy live ballet music and theatre for the first time.

Goldilocks is a mischievous little girl with hair as bright as gold. Always on the lookout for an adventure, one day her curiosity leads her to a house full of many surprises, a family of friendly bears, a beautiful blue bird and of course bowls of delicious porridge.

This new ballet follows on from Northern Ballet’s hugely successful Ugly Duckling, Three Little Pigs, The Elves & the Shoemaker and Tortoise & the Hare. The wonderful storytelling and memorable characters combined with the magic of live ballet music and theatre will delight the whole family.

Northern Ballet, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Tue 4 April; 12.30pm and 2.30pm, The Hawth Theatre
01293 553636, hawth.co.uk

IZZY WIZZY LET’S GET BUSY!

Some of us will remember enjoying Sooty in our childhood and now Sooty is back in the brand-new The Sooty Show with guaranteed giggles for the whole family! Direct from CITV, Sooty, Sweep and Soo are heading to Eastbourn.

Mr Slater has put Richard in charge of running the show but nothing is going to plan! Sooty’s magic tricks turn very messy and Sweep’s escapology act has him all tied up. Maybe Soo and her tap dancing will save the day? Or will it be special guest stars Butch and Ramsbottom.

The Sooty Show is the longest running children’s programme in the world. Harry Corbett originally bought Sooty for his son Matthew Corbett whilst on holiday in Blackpool in 1948. Sooty first appeared on our screens in 1952. Following Harry Corbett’s retirement in 1976, Sooty was operated by Corbett’s son Matthew, and enjoyed a new wave of popularity on stage and TV. Matthew Corbett retired in 1998, giving Sooty to then co-star Richard Cadell who presented the show ever since. Expect magic, music and mayhem from The Sooty Show with buckets full of audience participation.

See The Sooty Show, a spectacular treat for Sooty fans old and new – plus a chance to meet Richard and Sooty after the show!

Devonshire Park Theatre, 26 March 11am and 2.30pm. www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk 01323 412000