Magic of Christmas 2026
About the Show
This exciting Christmas show sees the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company return to Snape Maltings Concert Hall with a bold new reimagining for their 20th anniversary at the world-famous venue, which draws audiences from across East Anglia.
High-energy choreography across a range of styles, ensuring there’s truly something for everyone. With a talented young cast of almost 100, the show promises a huge variety of musical moods and rhythms, making it the perfect outing for the whole family.
Magic of Christmas is set to be bigger and bolder than ever. The stage set has been enhanced with the latest lighting technology, promising a production packed with surprises — and plenty of fun for all ages.
18-23 December 2026
Snape Maltings Concert Hall
Book tickets now
Magic of Christmas 2025
Audiences were delighted at Magic of Christmas 2025, and if you joined us at Snape Maltings, we hope you enjoyed it. We’re grateful for your support.
Here are some of our favourite images and quotes from the reviews.
Gallery from Magic of Christmas 2025
Review from Andrew Clarke | EADT
“It’s fast, it’s slick – it has more than a thousand costumes adorning over 90 talented performers – it provides the perfect precursor to the big day itself.”
See Andrew’s full review here…
Meet the Directors
Ellena Bacon
Read Ellena's bio
Ellena trained at the Italia Conti Theatre Academy of Theatre Arts and graduated with a Trinity National Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre, after having completed a foundation year at Evolution Foundation College.
Ellena’s professional credits include: Rapunzel (UK Tour), Fairy Fortywinks in Sleeping Beauty (Weymouth Pavillion) Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz (UK tour), Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz (The Shaw Theatre, London), Linda Manero in Saturday Night Fever (Avondale Theatre).
Ellena is a choreographer and Technique Class Tutor for the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company and has enjoyed working with them on Christmas Spectacular! 2021-23, Cats, Oliver JR, Matilda JR, Moana JR and Magic Of Christmas. Ellena also teaches Commercial, Jazz Technique & Contemporary Dance for the Co-op Juniors Theatre Academy.
Harriet Bacon
Read Harriet's bio
Harriet trained at Performers College and graduated with a Trinity National Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre.
Since graduating, Harriet’s professional credits include; Mother Gothel in Rapunzel (UK Tour), Carabosse in Sleeping Beauty (Weymouth Pavilion), The Wicked Witch of The West in The Wizard of Oz (UK Tour), The Wicked Witch of The West in The Wizard of Oz (The Shaw Theatre, London), Princess Jasmine in Aladdin (Dorking Halls, Surrey), Snow White in Snow White (Ipswich Regent Theatre), Jack and the Beanstalk (Truro, Hall for Cornwall), Sleeping Beauty (Truro, Hall for Cornwall), The X Factor (ITV), the FA Cup Final (ITV).
Harriet joined the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company for Barnum in 2018 playing the role of Charity and again in 2019 for Peter Pan – A Musical Adventure in the role of Mrs Darling. Harriet has worked with the company in a creative capacity for the Creative Warehouse Project, Christmas Spectacular! 2021-23, Cats, Oliver! JR, Matilda JR, Moana JR and Magic Of Christmas.
Oliver Brett
Artistic Director
Coop Juniors Theatre Company
What People Say
Hear from our dedicated audiences, about the Co-op Juniors experience.
Our Audience
June from Claydon
Regular audience member
“Once you watch the Co-op Juniors, you never stop! I have to remind myself constantly that they are an amateur organisation because the standard of everything is so high”
Paul from Ipswich
Theatre enthusiast
“What’s not to love about this company. The energy and enthusiasm of everyone is what makes them so special, as well as the amazing costumes and set design.”
Helen from Woodbridge
Group booker
“I organise a group booking every year to see the Coop Juniors and we’re never disappointed. What we love about going to Snape is that we can shop and have a meal as well…such a treat!”
About Co-op Juniors
We are one of the largest youth musical theatre groups in the UK, proudly working with young people aged 7-21, from any background, to produce vibrant, innovative and original theatre.
Our performances take place across Suffolk’s top venues, giving our young performers the chance to experience professional-standard productions whilst developing their skills, confidence and passion for the arts.
Ages 7-21
We welcome young people from all walks of life, whether they’re seasoned performers or stepping on stage for the first time. Auditions are held for every production, and anyone with enthusiasm and commitment can take part.
Professional Quality
For more than 80 years, we’ve inspired young performers and delighted audiences across Suffolk. Guided by a passionate team of tutors, crew and volunteers, we’re proud to run a professional company that puts care, creativity and community at its heart.
100+
Young Performers