Father Christmas brings festive cheer to Derriford Hospital children

Children being treated at Derriford Hospital received a festive visit last week from Father Christmas, as part of an outreach visit by Theatre Royal Plymouth.

The character, from the theatre’s current production of Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas, visited the Children’s Ward with gifts, spending time with patients ranging from babies just a few weeks old to teenagers. 

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He was accompanied by his cat and puppeteer Christopher Finn.

The visit aimed to bring some seasonal cheer to children and families spending Christmas in hospital and to share theatre experiences with those unable to attend performances in person.

Ryan Wilce, producer at Theatre Royal Plymouth, said:

“This is a very busy time for Father Christmas, but he was delighted to take time out to visit the children at Derriford Hospital. Bringing a touch of Christmas joy to families facing challenges reflects the spirit of the season.”

He added:

“Seeing the smiles on young people’s faces is a reminder of how stories and characters can help lift spirits.”

The hospital visit forms part of Theatre Royal Plymouth’s wider community activity linked to the production. 

ABOVE: Puppeteer Christopher Finn and Father Christmas with Derriford Hospital staff (Image: Theatre Royal)

Over the festive period, the theatre’s Tiny Tales interactive storytelling sessions for children aged two to four have taken the Father Christmas story to libraries across the city, including Plymouth Central, Plymstock, St Budeaux and Crownhill, with around 150 children taking part.

Members of the theatre’s Young Company, which runs term-time sessions for young people interested in the arts, were also given the opportunity to visit the set and speak with producers about careers in theatre.

The visit to Derriford Hospital was made possible through a partnership between Theatre Royal Plymouth and University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust.

Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas is currently running at The Drum, Theatre Royal Plymouth, until Sunday 28 December.