Thursford Christmas Spectacular variety show returns to village near Fakenham for festive extravaganza

An annual family-run variety show has returned to Norfolk to kickstart the festive season.

The Thursford Christmas Spectacular – which has attracted almost six million visitors to date – is a three-hour extravaganza of singing, dancing, comedy, speciality acts and festive fun.

Every November and December, the Thursford Steam Museum (which houses the world’s largest collection of steam engines and organs) is transformed into a winter wonderland, offering audiences the opportunity to escape into the world of Christmas.

Since opening its doors in 1977, the show has grown from being a small carol concert in an old farm shed to the biggest Christmas show of its kind in Europe.

WIth a new show every year, the team say they continually strive to push the limits in terms of performance and production, becoming “bigger and better” than the last.

Preparations for 2023’s show started with planning in February and continued throughout the year up until rehearsals, which started in September.

The Thursford Collection has recently undergone a huge restoration and installation project with a new state-of-the-art sound system being installed.

The new system uses revolutionary object positioning software and creates a more immersive experience for audiences.

With a cast of more than 120 singers, dancers, orchestra, and speciality acts, a 130ft stage, and 1,400 audience members, this is a show like no other.

Not only does the talent come from afar, with many performing on the West End, but audiences as far as the USA make the special trip to this Christmas spectacle.

With the show’s run having started on Wednesday this week and continuing until December 23, audiences are invited to book their seats, grab a mince pie, and be transported into a Christmas spectacular – now in its 46th year.

John Cushing, director and producer of the Thursford Christmas Spectacular, said: “Whilst we can’t give too much away, what I can tell you is that we have been working hard to install a brand-new state-of-the-art sound system that will rival some of the best shows in London.

“The show continues to grow and develop each year, and we couldn’t be more excited for this one.”

The speciality acts for this year include acrobatic rollerskaters, a multi-British and European Mountain Bike Trials champion, and a juggling duo.

The compere and comedian is Lloyd Hollett – The Comedy Wordsmith, who is bringing his unique style of comedy to the Thursford stage.

John added: “There’s something for everyone in our show; whether it’s classic Christmas or all-out theatre, there is an abundance of festive fun to enjoy.

“This is a must-see show with tickets selling fast. Book now to avoid disappointment.”

Thursford is also home to the Father Christmas and Lantern Light Trail, Santa’s Magical Journey and Enchanted Journey of Light.

Tickets are available online at www.thursford.com or via the box office 01328 878477.

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