I have come back from a fantastic family afternoon of fun and laughter, coffee and cakes, wonderment, ballet, bowler hats, flashing lights and lots of ‘JumpIn’ ….did you see what I did there? 😉

Where have we been?

The Lakeside Arts Centre : University Park, Nottingham NG7 2 RD Box Office: 0115 846 7777. Check out this link with a full diary of all the Jumpin and Wheee events over the next 9 days.

Our first stop saw the amazing Aracaladansa (an international dance theatre group) performing Nubes. We were all spellbound. A mixture of modern dance and ballet, accompanied by foot tapping and atmospheric music. It took you on a journey of clouds, sheep, shadow puppetry, snow, dancing in flippers and on ladders. It was truly extraordinary. I must admit I was doubtful as I sat down, but was definitely proved wrong. Even Miss A, only just three years old watched open-mouthed, and didn’t move a muscle for the full 50 minutes, as she was so enthralled.

Miss N and I then gave a little interview as we were filmed by Film City productions, giving our thoughts on Nubes and children’s theatre of this kind, together with what it is that we both love about Lakeside.

We then split up as Miss A and I had a date with the Planet of the Beetlebuns (for under 5 year olds) and Tall Dad and Miss N were desperate to get inside the Luminarium.

Miss A was very hesitant at first, but once she got over her shyness she loved chasing the flowers and bees, the Pacman and Hexbug type creatures along the mat. I would definitely recommend this. Miss A fell asleep at 6.30 tonight and that is unheard of, so it must have tired her out!

Tall Dad and Miss N, returned most impressed with the Lumninarium. Tall Dad, even wondered if the Architects of Air would take commissions for smaller installations, as he would love one he said, for parties!

How cool does N look with her satchel!