The Octagon is Bolton's theatre, and its best family offer costs nothing. Family Saturdays are free storytelling sessions through creative play, one for 3 to 5s and one for 5 to 7s, running from September to December with grown-ups joining in. There is youth theatre for 11 to 14s and 14 to 17s as well.
Christmas is Cinderella, which the theatre is keen to point out is a reimagining rather than a panto: songs, magic and a modern Cinderella. It is pitched at 5 and over, with a warning that some scenes may be a bit frightening for younger children, and there are audio-described, signed and relaxed dates.
What it costs: Family Saturdays are free but must be booked. Cinderella tickets are from £15, and the theatre says kids save up to £8 a ticket.
The Octagon's Christmas show, Sally Cookson's retelling of Cinderella rather than a traditional panto. The theatre pitches it at 5 and up, warns some scenes may frighten younger children, and does not admit babes in arms under 18 months. Relaxed, audio-described and signed performances are on the list.
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One email a week: what is on this weekend within a sensible drive, and the places worth booking before they go.