Bicester Leisure Centre is saying hello to an unexpected guest next week as Little Monster makes his way into an unsuspecting cast's Christmas performance. There's A Monster In Your Christmas Show adapts Tom Fletcher's interactive book into a stage spectacle for the whole family, as part of the Mill Arts' Centre's Out of the Mill initiative to bring arts performances to unconventional venues beyond the bounds of Banbury. We caught up with them to find out more about the show and Out of The Mill's plans for the new year.
Daily Information: So let’s start from the beginning; who is this monster and what is he doing in our Christmas Show?
Mill Arts Centre: Little Monster is a super-friendly, bright-eyed, bundle-of-energy troublemaker who has popped out of Tom Fletcher’s much-loved book and scampered straight into our Christmas show! He’s curious, excitable and far too enthusiastic to stay on the page, and before long he’s invited his magical friends to join him. Their playful mischief turns the show upside-down - in the loveliest possible way - as they help create a Christmas adventure full of giggles, songs and surprises.
DI: The show is based on Tom Fletcher’s interactive children’s book series; what changes can we expect in the jump from page to stage?
MA: Moving from book to stage gives the story the chance to grow brighter, bigger and even more interactive! Monster and his friends – including a special appearance by Elf - spring to life as colourful puppets and performers and Tom Fletcher’s brilliant new songs fill the theatre with a festive warmth. The books’ playful “shake, shout and wiggle” moments help create wonderful stage magic, wrapping children in music, movement and imaginative fun that they, and their families, can feel all around them.
DI: As the title implies, the show takes an unconventional approach to your traditional Christmas play - what makes it so special?
MA: This is a Christmas show that loves to play. Instead of a traditional sit-and-watch story, children are invited to shout, sing, laugh and help shape the adventure. The mix of puppetry, joyful chaos and friendly characters gives the performance a sparkly, anything-can-happen charm. It’s less like watching a show and more like being welcomed into a magical game where the audience and characters celebrate Christmas together.
DI: Tell us a little about the show’s relaxed performance approach and how the performance is made accessible for a younger audience.
MA: The production is designed to be gentle, inviting and completely child-friendly. Little ones are free to make noise, join in and respond however they feel – there’s no need to stay still or stay quiet. The show is 60 minutes of high-energy and filled with easy, guided participation so even very young children can follow along with confidence. Audiences will love the cosy atmosphere that feels safe, inclusive and welcoming for first-time theatre-goers.
DI: Describe There’s a Monster in Your Christmas Show in five words.
MA: Joyful, giggly, magical, musical, heartwarming.
DI: The performance is part of the Mill’s new Out of the Mill programme of activities; can you give us a bit of info on the project and what else we can look forward to?
MA: As the only professional arts venue in Cherwell, The Mill Arts Centre is passionate about reaching audiences beyond Banbury. Supported by Arts Council England, its Out of The Mill programme has been active in Bicester since 2018, testing new ways to bring high-quality arts experiences to the wider community.
One of the biggest challenges has been the absence of a professional theatre or performance space in Bicester. Over the past seven years, The Mill has brought a variety of performances to unconventional venues — from church halls and schools to community centres and even a circus tent. This festive season, The Mill will transform Bicester Leisure Centre into a fully equipped 200-seat auditorium, complete with tiered seating, sound and lighting systems, to host the UK touring production of Tom Fletcher’s There’s a Monster in Your Christmas Show! Keep your eyes peeled for more exciting performances coming to Bicester in 2026 - like Kizlar on Saturday 21st March, a visually stunning dance work from British Turkish choreographer Ceyda Tanc.
There's A Monster in Your Christmas Show will be playing at Bicester Leisure Centre from Tues 23rd - Mon 29th Dec (excluding Christmas and Boxing Day). Book your tickets here.