Just the ticket: What's on this week

Christmas in Books
Discover the what, why and wherefore of Christmas celebrations in the literature of the past in this special festive talk by Richard de Peyer. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served. Tickets £5. Call 01296 331441 to book or email museum@buckscountymuseum.org.
20 December, 3pm, Bucks County Museum, Church Street, Aylesbury, HP20 2QP.

Santa's grotto at Eden Shopping Centre
As Christmas draws ever nearer, Santa Clause has packed his sleigh and is making his way to Eden Shopping Centre to meet the little ones of Buckinghamshire! This year’s grotto is absolutely free - children will receive a free tasty treat and there is also the chance to purchase photographs with the twinkly-eyed gent himself, for your family to treasure forever.The grotto (located opposite Mothercare) is open daily from 12th December through to Christmas Eve; customers can check Eden’s website for full opening times and details. Share your seasonal photos with Eden on Instagram (@edenshoppingcentre), Facebook (/edenshoppingcentre) or Twitter (@eden_shopping) and find out about all the Christmas events at www.edenshopping.co.uk. Please check the website for full opening times, as these vary from day to day. Free entry (option to buy photos).
Every day until 24 December, 10am, Eden Shopping Centre, Oxford Street, High Wycombe.

Ho Ho Ho! Johnny Wheeler Returns to Flackwell Heath RBL
Talented singer/guitarist Johnny Wheeler returns for the final time this year on this very special pre-Christmas social evening! Free parking. Tickets: A small fee on the door.
20 December, 8pm, Flackwell Heath R B Legion, Common Road, Flackwell Heath.

Santa’s Magical Adventure at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
The fun starts the moment you arrive! You will be shown to your reserved seats on the steam train where you will be joined by Santa himself. One of Santa's pixie helpers will pull your gifts from the huge toy sack and the magic begins! Please arrive 20 minutes before the advertised departure time and you should allow about 2 hours for your visit to include the train ride and live children's entertainment. Booking is essential on 01296 655720 (weekdays 9.30 - 4.30), or book online. Tickets: Adult/child £12.50 (3-15), child £3 (under 2).
20 to 22 December, 10.30am, Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury.

Christmas day morning swim
Take a Christmas morning swim in the heated outdoor pool at Chesham Moor Gym and Swim. A great way to start the festivities on Christmas Day, an outdoor dip has become a Christmas tradition in itself. Head to the pool for one of the two timed swimming sessions: 7am to 9am or 9am to 11am. Bacon buttie and a hot cup of tea or coffee, all included with your ticket and served by the Santa hat wearing staff! And the pool will be heated to a toasty 82/83ºF. This unusual, upbeat event is a truly unique way to spend Christmas morning and would be a perfect way to meet up with friends and family on the day. This is the second time the Christmas day dip has been held at the pool after a successful event last year – perhaps it could become your family's new Christmas tradition? Please book in advance at reception, by calling 01494 776 975.Tickets: £8 for adults (£16+), £5 for under 16s.
25 December, 7am, Chesham Moor Gym & Swim, Moor Road, Chesham.

All Saints Christmas Tree Festival
Come and enjoy a beautiful display of real Christmas Trees in All Saints Parish Church in the heart of High Wycombe. Email ashwtreefestival@outlook.com for more information. Free admission.
19 December to 21 December, 10.30am, All Saints Parish Church, Church Street, High Wycombe.

Santa's Special Steam Trains
Santa and Mrs. Claus made a brief visit to the Steam Railway recently to make sure all was ready for the busy December season - Santa noted that some trains are likely to be booked out already, however tickets are still available on many dates. Santa promised to be onboard and to provide presents for each child 1-15yrs (retail value of present about £5) and all can enjoy a complimentary spiced hot berry or cordial drink and biscuits or excellent mince pies. Mrs Claus reckons that the quality of the presents and the relaxed atmosphere will make it a very magical experience for everyone. The best way to book is through the website at www.ChinnorRailway.co.uk. Group discounts for eight or more people travelling together available from Don the Elf on 07718 003133. There is plenty of free parking at Chinnor station for cars and Santa's sleigh. Tickets: Tickets are £11 adult, £10 child (1-15yrs).
20 December to 21 December, 10am, Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway, Station Road, Chinnor Station, Chinnor, Princes Risborough.

Community Carols
Community Carols commences at 11.00am. Tea and coffee 10.30 to 11.00am. Soup and Mince Pies at 12.15pm.Entry is free.
23 December, 10.30am, The Salvation Army, Frogmoor, High Wycombe.

Christmas Pantos

Peter Pan
Everybody loves the story of Peter Pan – the boy who never grew up. Join Peter on his thrilling adventure with Wendy, Tinkerbell, Captain Hook, Smee, Tiger Lily, the Indians and the Mermaids … and don’t forget the Crocodile! You’ll be wowed by the flying antics of Peter Pan, charmed by the energy of the Lost Boys and thrilled by the hilarious antics of the Pirate Band. At the Kenton, we enjoy nothing better than the sound of laughter filling our beautiful theatre, and for the third year running we are expecting to be packed to the gunnels with families enjoying the most British of festive traditions – a wonderful, charming pantomime with songs, jokes and slapstick to keep your whole family entertained. Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the Kenton Traditional Pantomime! Tickets: Adult £20, Concessions £17, Child £12, Family £56, from www.kentontheatre.co.uk or by calling 01491 575698.
20 December, 2pm, Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley.

Cinderella
First Family Entertainment brings you the magical pantomime Cinderella! This classic rags to riches story sees Cinders transformed from a maid put upon by her wicked step sisters, to the belle of the ball - with a little help from her Fairy Godmother. This year’s sparkling pantomime Cinderella is to star the stunning Suzanne Shaw as Fairy Godmother, and returning due to popular demand having won the hearts of the Vale two years ago, Russell Grant as Baron Hardup. Russell and Suzanne are joined by Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Andrew Derbyshire as Prince Charming, Aylesbury’s very own Andy Collins as Buttons, and singer/songwriter Holly Brewer in the title role of Cinderella. With glittering sets, gorgeous fairytale costumes, big song and dance numbers, bags of audience participation and real Shetland ponies – fun and laughter is guaranteed for the whole family! Check the website for show times. Tickets range from £11.90 to £30.40 and are available from www.atgtickets.com/shows/cinderella/aylesbury-waterside-theatre or by calling 0844 871 7607.
18 December to 4 January, Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury.

Dick Whittington
TV soap-star, actor and comedian Shane Richie will star in this year's pantomime, Dick Whittington. Join Dick Whittington, Alice Fitzwarren and the lovable Tommy the Cat on an enchanting pantomime adventure. This dazzling production will be spectacularly brought to life with an abundance of comedy, stunning sets, fabulous costumes and the magic and audience participation you have come to expect from Wycombe Swan’s pantomime. Tickets are priced between £19.50 and £28, available from www.wycombeswan.co.uk or the Box Office on 01494 512 000.
18 December to 4 January, Wycombe Swan Theatre, St Mary Street, High Wycombe.

Jack and the Beanstalk
Come and enjoy this new take on the classic story in one giant of a panto! Full tickets are £15 (£12.50 Concessions, £11 children), available from the Box Office: 01494 582900, online at www.elgiva.com or email: boxoffice@elgiva.com 18 December to 3 January, The Elgiva Theatre, St Mary’s Way, Chesham. Beauty and the Beast Theatre Royal Windsor has assembled another star-studded cast for this year's fun-filled family friendly traditional pantomime. Beauty and the Beast is a classic fairytale and Windsor's pantomime version of the spellbinding story will entertain audiences of all ages. This tale as old as time is filled with spectacular pantomime magic, unforgettable characters and dazzling production numbers. The fun-filled traditional show promises to be packed with all the elements that make a Windsor pantomime so memorable such as an all-singing, all-dancing cast, live music and comedy fun as well as stunning costumes and lavish sets. And of course, it wouldn't be pantomime without plenty of audience participation. Book now to ensure the best seats. Tickets are available from the box office on 01753 853888 or book via www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk. Tickets range in price from £14 to £34.50.
18 December to 11 January, Theatre Royal Windsor, 32 Thames St, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1PS.

The Young Theatre's Aladdin
Join Aladdin and his brother Wishee-Washee (not forgetting their mum, Widow Twankee) as they battle the evil Abanazar to save Princess Jasmine from a fate worse than death. Along the way they meet genies, flying carpets and washing machines in an adventure unlike any other. The usual mayhem abounds with slapstick, splat, dancing skeletons and the infamous rock throwing! The Young Theatre's pantomimes, now in their 6th year, are written to be suitable for all ages. December 23rd at 3pm and 7pm, December 24th at 1pm and 4.30pm, December 27th at 1pm and 4.30pm. Email tom.mcgrath@youngtheatre.org.uk for more information. Tickets: Adult £13 Concession £8 Family Ticket £38.
23 to 27 December, 3pm, The Curzon Centre, Maxwell Road, Beaconsfield.

Comedy

Comedy Night at the Potters Arms
The Potters Arms’ famous comedy night returns for an extra date due to popular demand. Headline act is Zoe Lyons, MC is Martin Coyote and opening act is Jarred Christmas. Tickets are £25 and includes a festive meal of roasted turkey breast, parsnip mash, pigs in blankets, sage and onion stuffing balls and cranberry gravy, in the interval. Buy tickets by calling Richard on 01494 726 222 or online at www.wegottickets.com/event/297923.
22 December, 8pm, Potters Arms, Fagnall Lane, Winchmore Hill.

Children’s events

Christmas tree trail at The Roald Dahl Museum
For all ages: hunt for the Christmas trees throughout the Museum, and find out about Roald Dahl’s marvellous motherland, Norway. Call 01494 892192 for more information. Tickets: Free for Museum visitors.
23 December, 11am, The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden.

Cadets:

Air Cadets - 332 (High Wycombe) Squadron Air Training Corps
If you are between 13 to 17 and interested in flying, gliding, Aviation, music and band, canoeing, climbing, mountaineering, mountain biking, camping and DofE, radio comms teamwork and leadership/ citizenship, first aid, sports, skill at arms, art and photography, model making and model flying, making new friends and being part of something special. Then get in touch to find out more. Tickets: £20 per quarter.
Every Tuesday and Thursday, 7pm, 332 (High Wycombe) Squadron ATC HQ, Building No 1126 Off Daws Hill Lane, High Wycombe.

Air Cadets - 871 (Penn) Squadron
The Air Training Corps (or Air Cadets) offers a vast array of activities to young people aged 13 to 20 and is supported by its adult volunteers as well as the Royal Air Force. They parade on Wednesdays and Friday in their own purpose-built building on the school site. New members are always welcome so get in contact on 01494 256141. Email 871@aircadets.org or visit www.pennaircadets.co.uk for more information. Tickets: £9 per month.
Wednesdays and Fridays, 7.15pm, 871 (Penn) Squadron ATC, Sir William Ramsay School Rose Avenue, Hazlemere.

Brownies
Part of GirlguidingUK a group for girls aged seven to ten. We enjoy a variety of activities including craft, games and badges to help us learn more about us, our community and our world. Call 01494 440965 for more information. Tickets: sub's paid termly.
Every Monday, 6pm, Disraeli School, The Pastures, Downley.

Christmas Crafts for Under 5s
Come and be creative with your toddler in the family friendly atmosphere of the museum. Enjoy Christmas stories, crafts, music and coffee for the grown-ups (extra charge for refreshments) This Friday is Father Christmas’s Beard. No need to book. Adults not making anything are free! Drop in between 10am and 12 noon or 1pm and 3pm. All children must be accompanied by an adult for all activities. Lots more to enjoy! Free hands-on Toy Exhibition, Santa Trail (50p). For opening times and what’s on at Bucks County Museum and Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery call 01296 331441.Tickets: £2.50 per child, Adults are free.
19 December, 10am, Bucks County Museum, Church Street, Aylesbury.

Wondrous Christmas trees
Make a wondercrump Christmas Tree from tissue paper and willow. We recommend pre-booking for workshops as spaces are limited. You can do this by calling 01494 892192 to book Museum entry and workshops up until 4:30pm on the day before you visit. Tickets: £3 per participant plus Museum entry.
20 December, 12.30pm and 2.30pm, The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden.

Story time
Story times - bring your child to the library to listen to stories and interact with other children. Call 08452303232 or email cing@buckscc.gov.uk for more information. Tickets: free.
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10am and 2.15pm, Beaconsfield Library, Reynolds Road, Beaconsfield.

Meetings and Exhibitions

The Impact of Geology on Wine - Can we taste it?
Find out how the rocks underfoot can influence the wine in your glass and see if you can taste the difference. Join Dr Simon Grant, geologist and wine lover, for a fascinating talk and complementary wine tasting. Tickets £12, call 01296 331441 to book.
19 December, 6.30pm, Bucks County Museum, Church Street, Aylesbury, HP20 2QP.

Winter Wonders with Paper Panda & Friends at Obsidian Art
We are delighted to announce an exhibition of paper-cutting by the hugely talented Paper Panda, accompanied by invited artists and makers Amanda Clark, Kim Anderson, Marina Dieul, Marna Lunt, Marnie Makes and Russell Paige. During this exhibition we will also be selling a range of lovely Christmas cards, decorations and gifts. So this is a great event to get you into the Christmas spirit! For more details on the artists in this exhibition and to see a selection of their work please visit our website www.obsidianart.co.uk. Tickets: Free.
Every day until 31 December, 10am, Obsidian Art, The Bucks Goat Centre, Old Risborough Road, Stoke Mandeville.

Coffee Morning
Come along for a Festive morning with staff. Coffee and mince pies. Call 08452303232 for more information.Tickets: Free.
19 December, 10.30am, Beaconsfield Library, Reynolds Road, Beaconsfield.

World War One Wycombe
In this anniversary year, discover what The Great War meant for the men, women and children of Wycombe District. Find out where, how and why local men fought and how the War changed the lives of those at home. With plenty of hands-on learning for all ages. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sundays 2 to 5pm. Call 01494 421895 or email museum@wycombe.gov.uk for more information. Free entry.
Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm, Sundays 2pm to 5pm, Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe.

On the Radar

A Laugh a Minute – Nicholas Parsons
The host of BBC Radio 4’s Just a Minute, demonstrates his unique skills as a solo performer and raconteur. His anecdotes are based on his experience of working in an unpredictable and always fascinating profession. He has an ability to laugh at himself and see the humour in his early life and struggles to be an actor, building to anecdotes based on his varied work in so many branches of show business. A show full of humour, comedy and acutely observed characterisations. Tickets are £17.50, available from www. Nordenfarm.org or call the Box Office on 01628 788 997.
10 January, 8pm, Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Join Chesham Bois Catholic Players as they enter the magical world of Narnia. When four young evacuees leave London, they arrive at the mysterious house of Professor Kirk, where a wardrobe in a spare room starts them on an adventure to the winter wonderland that is Narnia. Come battle the White Witch with Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy as they join forces with the great lion Aslan and a host of mythical creatures. CBCP were first formed over 60 years ago and now have about 100 members of all ages, both catholic and non-catholic, from the local area. Tickets: Children £10, OAPs/concessions £12.50, Adults £15, Group discount – buy 15 tickets and get 1 free. Available from www.elgiva.com, 01494 582900 or in person.
22 to 25 January: 22 and 23 January at 7.30pm, 24 January, 2pm and 6.30pm, 25 January at 2pm, The Elgiva, St Mary’s Way, Chesham.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
The Henley Children’s Theatre perform in their annual traditional pantomime. Written by Mike Hurst for children (both cast and audience) it is a treat for adults too, as HCT always inject a good dose of upbeat, not corny, humour. And it’s all rather clever – you might need to watch it more than once to “get” everything! Children aged 4 to 16 appear in the cast, with some great music and laughter. The youngest appear as the National Elf Service, aiding the Well Fairy in her endeavours to protect Snow White against the evil Queen and her villainous, but soft-centred, henchman Black Bert. The whole cast of energetic, enthusiastic children make for a very happy Christmas outing. Tickets: Adult £12.50, Concessions £8.50, Group Rates available and under 3s free on your lap if notified in advance. Call 01491 575698 to book.
3 January, 2pm, Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley, RG9 2BP.

Mychael Barratt Solo Show at Obsidian Art
A welcome return to one of our favourite artists, Mychael Barratt. He is best known for his humorous and clever etchings and paintings, his series based on art history, artist dogs and cats, Shakespeare and pieces inspired by London, love, romance and popular culture. A selection of Mychael’s work is available to purchase through our online shop at www.obsidianart.co.uk. Email info@obsidianart.co.uk or call 01296 612150 for more information. Free entry.
17 January, 10am to 5pm, The Bucks Goat Centre, Old Risborough Road, Stoke Mandeville.

Storytelling for adults: The Kiss of Forgetfulness
Warm, witty, London-based storyteller Nell Phoenix tells stories of love, luck and sharp objects with the dark, the murky and the weird left lurking in the heart of the story. Friendly, welcoming venue with drinks at the interval (first drink free). This is the first of four storytelling performances here - buy a season ticket and save money! More details: www.storytellinginjordans.moonfruit.com or call Katy Cawkwell on 07762469059. Aimed at adults, unsuitable for under 12s. Tickets £8 (£6 conc. for over 60s, under 16s, students).
15 January, 8pm, Jordans Village Hall, Green West Road, Jordans, Beaconsfield.