Festive Ice Skating Adventure Comes To Theatr Clwyd

Mold’s first outdoor ice rink opened this week, bringing adventure on ice to an exciting line-up of Christmas entertainment at Theatr Clwyd.

The launch ceremony features Ken Skates Economy and Infrastructure Secretary and Tamara Harvey, Theatr Clwyd’s Artistic Director.

They are joined by the Flintshire Youth Jazz Band and figure skaters from the Deeside-based GB Ice Skating Youth Development Squad, who perform a demonstration on the ice.

The outdoor ice rink, the only one in North Wales or Chester this Christmas, is open every day (except Christmas Day) until Monday 2 January with 45 minute sessions costing from just £5- £8, including skate hire.

It is open to children aged 4 and upwards. It offers adventure for everyone: there are penguin skate aids, and ice bananas for families, available to guarantee that beginners can get onto the ice and share a Christmas experience to remember.

The ice rink is under cover, with one side opening to reveal the beautiful view on nice days and is made of real ice.

Opening the Theatr Clwyd rink, Economy Secretary, Ken Skates said:

“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to support this exciting festive development at Theatr Clwyd through Visit Wales’ Tourism Product Innovation Fund – it’s a perfect combination of adventure taking place against the stunning backdrop of the Clwydian range. The Nutcracker event is a fantastic opportunity for people to see what Theatr Clwyd has to offer and will give people compelling reasons to visit and stay in the area. We’ll also look forward to a further development here later this month, which will be an added bonus for the start of The Nutcracker production.”

Located on the hill next to Theatr Clwyd, with views over the Clwydian range towards the landmark of Moel Famau, the ice rink offers a complete day out.

It also has a funfair for children, with rides, a family fun house and a twister.

To complete a magical winter experience there are cabins from which refreshments, including mulled wine and mince pies and food from local artisan producers, can be bought.

Louise Duncan ‏@loubird123

Tamara Harvey explained

“When I arrived at Theatr Clwyd, I was told that one of the young people from our weekly workshops, when asked what the new Artistic Director should do, said ‘build an ice rink’. I loved the wild ambition of the idea but more than that, I loved the notion that it could bring people up the hill to our building who might otherwise think the theatre isn’t for them. We’re not just a place that makes plays, we’re a space to eat and drink, to meet friends, to spend time with family surrounded by colourful and engaging art and artists. Thanks to support from Welsh Government, the ice rink has become a reality and we’re hoping it will encourage visitors from near and far to come and hang out on this beautiful Welsh hilltop, to visit our warm and welcoming building. And alongside the ice rink, we have a unique offer for families and children (we’re saying 11 and under but I think it’s just as magical for those who are young at heart!) – a theatrical version of the much-loved story of The Nutcracker by award-winning writer-director Joe Bunce, taking you on a thrilling adventure into the hidden corners of our building. Plus there are penguins! And Christmas stalls! And a funfair! And a giant Christmas tree! And hot chocolate! What more could you want for the festive period?”

The ice rink has been made possible by a partnership involving the Welsh Government, Flintshire County Council and Theatr Clwyd in partnership with the local tourist industry in North East Wales. The ice rink will provide impetus for increased numbers of seasonal visitors to the area, with ensuing economic benefits.

The ice skating adventure in Mold brings to an end the Welsh Government’s themed Year of Adventure 2016, to promote Wales as the world’s capital of adventure tourism.

Alongside the ice rink, The Nutcracker is a new interactive play for children aged 11 and under and their families, inspired by the classic story, which combines storytelling, puzzles and music. Exploring various locations around the Theatr Clwyd building this enchanting Christmas story ends with a free skate on the ice, which is included with the ticket for the show.

Christmas entertainment at Theatr Clwyd also includes Aladdin – The Wok ‘n’ Roll Panto, The Tommy Cooper Show featuring the gags, magic and story of the legendary Welsh comedian and, for one night only, musical midwinter charm with voice, violin and virtuoso guitar in Richard Durrant’s Candlelit Christmas. The ice rink and all Christmas events can be booked at www.theatrclwyd.com