Get Involved this February Half Term

Ignite your imagination this February half term at the Corn Exchange Newbury and The Base Greenham 

This February half term, we invite children and families to escape the ordinary and dive into a world of creativity, fun, and imagination. With a mix of hands-on workshops and a captivating theatre production, there’s something magical in store for everyone. 

For a family theatre experience this half term, Four Seasons (Fri 21 – Sun 23 Feb) is set to enchant audiences of all ages. This innovative production is a theatrical love letter to nature, brought to life by the Olivier Award-winning company Little Bulb. Audiences will join a fearless team of magical gardeners as they tend to a marvellous menagerie of flora and fauna, exploring the wonders and weirdness of nature through puppetry, physical theatre, and clowning fun. With a lively score inspired by the changing seasons, including Vivaldi’s iconic masterpiece, Four Seasons is a celebration of our place in the natural world. There is also the opportunity to join a special free storytime event at Newbury Library two weeks before the show on Thursday 6 February at 11am. 

Join our popular holiday club Create and Make (Mon 17 – Fri 21 Feb) offering children a fun-filled experience where, under the guidance of professional practitioners, they can explore the arts, develop new skills, and build friendships. This term’s exciting theme, 'A Day...', promises a series of imaginative adventures. Whether it’s the thrill of a day at the beach, the excitement of a theme park or the wonder of the theatre, each session will spark curiosity and creativity while encouraging children to dream big. 

Over at The Base Greenham, children aged 6 – 11 can take part in all the creativity of Half Term Art Club (Mon 17 – Thu 20 Feb) where young artists will have the chance to explore a variety of materials and methods. Each session is designed to encourage self-expression and creativity, making it an exciting way to develop artistic confidence and learn new skills while having fun. 

On Thursday 20 February, The Base is hosting its first ever Family Day for visitors of all ages to experience the vibrant world of Yinka Shonibare CBE: Ritual Ecstasy of the Modern in a fun and welcoming way. At the heart of the Gallery, a creative space will be set up where children can get hands-on with art and craft activities inspired by Shonibare’s bold and thought-provoking work. Little artists can make their own masks or crowns, and then step into a playful photo frame to capture the moment. They can also craft a simple mobile to take home, bringing a piece of the exhibition into their own space. Around the building, art trails will guide families through the stories and influences behind Shonibare’s work, while open artist studios offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process. Under-12s are free to enter the exhibition, whilst full price tickets are £8.25 - or purchase a Family Base Pass and enjoy unlimited access to The Base’s exhibitions for 12 months for a family of four for just £45. 

For young people who enjoy crafting, Children’s Concertina Book Workshop (Sat 22 Feb) offers a hands-on introduction to bookmaking. Designed for children aged 7 and over, this engaging session will guide them through the process of creating their own concertina-style book, complete with decorative covers and a ribbon tie. Once their book is assembled, children can choose to fill it with drawings, poetry, or stories, making it a unique keepsake to take home. Families will also have the opportunity to explore the artwork of Yinka Shonibare CBE by taking part in the Base Greenham’s 'Citizens of the World’ Children's Hybrid Printmaking (Sat 22 Feb) workshop, where they will join artist-printmaker Hannah Cantellow for a hands-on creative workshop inspired by the exhibition. Using recycled materials and meaningful objects from home, participants will explore identity and culture through the art of printmaking. 

Whether your child is getting hands-on with arts and crafts, diving into drama, or being transported by the magic of theatre, we have plenty to make this February half term unforgettable. 

Tickets for all events mentioned are available now and can be purchased on our website or by contacting the Box Office on 01635 522733.