Press Contact: Natalie Thomas
December 2025
Derriford Hospital Children’s Ward had a special visitor last week as the star of Theatre Royal Plymouth’s (TRP) magical children’s show, Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas, stopped by with a festive delivery.
Accompanied by his faithful cat and puppeteer Christopher Finn, Father Christmas spent time with the children, ranging from just a few weeks old to teenagers, giving gifts and spreading joy. The visit aimed to share the magic of theatre beyond TRP’s stages, whilst bringing festive cheer to those who might not be able to celebrate at home this year. It is also part of TRP’s ongoing commitment to its community and young people which has seen the team behind the show actively engaging with local audiences. TRP’s weekly interactive storytelling group for 2-4 year olds, Tiny Tales, has been taking the Raymond Briggs’ story to libraries across the city over the festive period, including Plymouth Central, Plymstock, St Budeaux and Crownhill, reading to around 150 children in total. Participants of TRP’s Young Company, which runs termly sessions for those interested in working in the arts, were able to explore the Father Christmas set and speak to the producers about careers in theatre.
Ryan Wilce, Producer at Theatre Royal Plymouth, said: “Obviously, this is a very busy time for Father Christmas, but he was genuinely delighted to take time out of his preparations to visit the children at Derriford Hospital. Bringing a touch of Christmas joy to youngsters in our region and families experiencing challenges captures the true spirit of the season. Seeing the smiles on the youngsters’ faces reminds us of the power of theatre and how stories and characters have the power to lift spirits.
“Alongside this, the show has offered opportunities for us to engage with young people across the city; from toddlers discovering story time and theatre for the first time to teens navigating their career aspirations.”
The visit to Derriford Hospital was made possible through a partnership with Theatre Royal Plymouth and University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust.
TRP’s Father Christmas is starring in Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas in The Drum until Sunday 28 December, with limited tickets still available: https://theatreroyal.com/whats-on/father-christmas-2025/