Dark fairytales

Give the panto a swerve and head to cultural Stratford hotspot Swan Theatre to catch The Red Shoes until 19 Jan. It’s a new version of Hans Christian Andersen’s dark fairytale, a story of pride and vanity retold by playwright Nancy Harris. The show is about an orphaned young woman, taken in by some do-gooders who expect her to be seen but not heard. She finds a beautiful pair of shoes and sees the chance to be and do more, but her feet betray her and take her to places she does not wish to go. It’s a perfect one to go to with the whole family, suitable for ages 7 and up.

Shakespeare classic

If you’d prefer to see one of the Bard’s classics in his hometown then check out winter masterpiece Twelfth Night from 5 Dec to 17 Jan. It’s on at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and features BAFTA and Olivier nominated actor Samuel West (from All Creatures Great and Small) as Malvolio. It’s directed by Prasanna Puwanarajah, featuring music composed by singer-songwriter Matt Maltese.

Seasonal eats

The RSC’s Rooftop Restaurant is hands down one of the best value for money places to go in the town, serving up top notch food with breathtaking views across Stratford. Menus are seasonal and served from 11.30am with everything from a Croque Monsieur or fish finger sarnie as a light lunch, to a three-course slap up meal. We recommend you go for the latter, or if dining before a show opt for the fixed price menu with everything from a smoked salmon and dill tart to start to mains of roast turkey Warwickshire roulade and slow cooked Long Compton pork belly. On Sundays the roasts are super popular too, as are the delicious afternoon teas.

Hidden trails

Looking for some free fun and to kill an hour or two with the kids? Shoes from past productions have been hidden around The Swan and Royal Shakespeare Theatre to celebrate The Red Shoes. It’s a great way to explore the buildings, and then head to The Welcome Space to design a pair. Make sure you leave some time to check out the installations on the ceiling of the Swan Theatre too.

Delicious drinks

Head to the Rooftop Cocktail Bar for gorgeous views while enjoying traditional drinks and some new surprises. The mixologists have developed a brand new cocktail and mocktail menu, perfect for enjoying a drink before a show or kicking back after work. Think everything from a Tiramisu (as decadent as it sounds, with Baileys, amaretto, cacao liqueur and cream) to a tropical Kiwi Daiquiri and a Coffee Negroni.

Shopping

Got a theatre-loving friend and want to get them a gift that doesn’t scream high street? There’s some gorgeous options at the RSC’s shop, from cards and books to decor, clothing and ornaments. Perfect to pair with some tickets to an upcoming show!

Want to find out more about what’s on at the RSC this winter? Click here.

Dark fairytales & delicious food – what not to miss this winter in Stratford

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