Family Matters

Thanks to the Enid Blyton Societyhttp://www.enidblytonsociety.co.uk

The Fringe is hardly a grown-up affair. Perhaps I'd better write that again - that first sentence is bound to be deliberately misinterpreted by someone or other. Buxton Festival Fringe is there to be enjoyed; it is fun. Some of the content is clearly aimed at an older audience - but happily there is plenty for families to enjoy together. This year's programme has a couple of dozen events that will appeal to audiences of all ages and there are six shows aimed especially at families.

The Young REC led and directed by Martin Beard are doing two shows. (Martin might question who does the leading but let's move on). Both shows are at the exciting new venue - The Marquee - in the grounds of Poole's Cavern. On 8-11 July they are performing The Darkest Angel and there is a musical comedy, Ye Gods!, on from 15-18 and 22-25 July. More details at http://www.nicevenues.com

Something of an annual tradition now is Black Box Theatre's gentle and affectionate spoof of Enid Blyton - Another Five Go Mad in Buxton, is in the Pauper's Pit between 15-18 July. More details at http://www.undergroundvenues.co.uk

What became of the red shoes? is a show for audiences aged 3+ and is presented by Little Pixie Productions - who are, I think, new to the Fringe. The show is described thus: Granny's attic is full of old junk... or is it? On a rainy day a curious child explores it. Discovering forgotten treasures including an interesting pair of shoes her imagination is sparked and she embarks on a magical journey told through original music, movement and more. Catch this at Buxton's Methodist Church (in the Market Place) between 17-19 July.

There is a one-off performance of Wind in the Willows in the Paxton Suite on Saturday 18 July (6-8pm). This is a production by a young Coventry-based company and ought to be fun.

Also on the 18th - but in the afternoon - the Buxton Festival Fringe readings, which take place in the Old Hall Hotel, will be chosen with children in mind. Two readings - each about 30 minutes - at 2.00pm and at 3.00pm. The readings and readers may not be announced until the day but they are free and recommended.

One other one-off is on the following Saturday, 25 July (10am-4pm). At Buxton Museum - which should be visited several times over the course of the Fringe, there is so much going on - there is a workshop event on the theme ofInvestigating the Ice Age and its impact on the Peak District 10,000 years ago. There is also a 'flintknapping demonstration.' Don't ask me - I've no idea. You'd better go and find out.


by Keith Savage - Published 11/05/2009