7 November 2008, 08/252
The Wonka Factor at Skelmersdale Christmas
lights!
Famous children’s characters and popular ‘X Factor’ TV show
contestants will help to put the magic into this year’s
Skelmersdale Christmas lights switch-on.
Celebrity pop duo Journey South, who were finalists in the X
Factor in the 2005 series, will be performing at the festive event
at the Concourse Shopping Centre on Friday 21 November. The
brothers Andy and Carl Pemberton will then help the Council’s
Chairman, Cllr Cyril Ainscough, to turn on the town’s Christmas
lights.
Before the pair arrive, there will be plenty of other
entertainment when the event kicks-off at 4pm.
Characters from the much-loved story Willie Wonka and the
Chocolate Factory will bring the stage alive with their illusion
show. There will be appearances from Slugworth and the Umpa Lumpa’s
too.
The Gingerbread Man, Candy Fairy and Chocolate Toy Soldier will
also be walking around the shopping centre to meet and greet the
children.
Zero Limited Crew, a professional break-dancing team, will show
off their dancing skills. The Black Eagles, a spectacular acrobatic
group from Africa, will also excite the audience with their raw,
energetic routines. Then FusionIV will get everyone in the party
mood with their funky Christmas moves.
Cllr Geoff Hammond, Portfolio Holder for Community Services,
said:"There are plenty of acts on this year to make the switch-on a
lively, exciting festive occasion for both young and old to enjoy.
Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is a popular children’s
favourite that’s bound to be a hit with the crowds when the
characters come on stage. Journey South and the dance groups will
be sure to get the crowds going too - so don’t miss this great
event."
Watch out for the piper at 5.45pm for the start of the parade as
the procession of the clergy, choir and local dignitaries make
their way towards the shopping centre. Skelmersdale Brass Band and
Aughton Youth Choir will then break into the rendition of
traditional carols at 6pm.
Following this the grand countdown will begin to the switch-on
of the colourful lights at 6.30pm.
The event is also an ideal time to do some Christmas shopping as
there will be plenty of charity stalls around the Concourse and the
shops will be open until late too.
And don’t forget the following week is Ormskirk’s Christmas
lights switch-on, on Friday 28 November, where all the action is
centred around the town centre and clock tower. Details will be
published nearer the time.
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