The Night Before Christmas in Epsom (From Wandsworth Guardian)

The Night Before Christmas at Epsom Playhouse

3:30pm Friday 30th November 2012 in Freetime By Alice Foster, Reporter

A little mouse sets off in search of Santa Claus to find out why only humans get to celebrate Christmas in a production at the Epsom Playhouse.

The Night Before Christmas runs until December 24 itself with children in the audience each getting a present and the chance to meet the cast.

The play opens with Emily looking out of the window as she waits excitedly for Christmas Day to come. But a mouse in the corner can't understand why he is left out of festivities and starts on a journey to ask Father Christmas.

Along the way he encounters the family cat, a cowardly toy soldier and a fairy on top of the tree.

The Night Before Christmas is the latest production from Big Wooden Horse Theatre Company, creators of the hit show Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! and is a co-production with Brighton Dome.

Writer Adam Bampton-Smith said: "It has been great to be able to write a show all about what a wonderful time Christmas can be - the story is about Eddie the mouse’s adventure but is also about friendship, sharing and the real spirit of Christmas.

"The show is aimed at families with children 2-7 years old, who are too young to sit through a full length pantomime.

"The production features original music, some audience participation and a wonderful surprise at the end of the show!"

Epsom Playhouse, Ashley Avenue, Epsom, December 6 to 24, 10.30am, 1.30pm and 4pm; are £10-£12.50; call 01372 742555/742227; visit www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk