Next Door But One movement director Bailey Dowler, left, and artistic director Matt Harper-Hardcastle with When Robins Appear cast members Ceridwen Smith, centre, Annie Rae Donaghy and Emilly Chattle. Picture James Drury
NEXT Door But One brings a different kind of Christmas show to Explore York libraries from December 13 to 21, a show for those who have a different kind of Christmas.
This York theatre company and community arts collective is no stranger to making imaginative, accessible and fun-filled theatre for children and young people since 2013, but When Robins Appear will be NDB1’s first play for the festive season.
Since touring Philip Pullman’s The Firework-Maker’s Daughter in 2021, NDB1’s audiences and community groups have been asking the company when a Christmas show might be created.
However, Matt Harper-Hardcastle, NDB1’s chief executive officer and artistic director, was hesitant initially, saying : ‘York already has an abundance of festive activity, from pantomimes and touring shows, to light displays and infamous markets. What could we offer that was different yet complementary?”
Matt wrestled with the idea for a while, but with each new project or production over the past three years, it became ever more apparent what NBD1’s inaugural Christmas production could be.
“Our 2023 tour of Operation Hummingbird, a show exploring anticipatory grief, originally intended for an adult audience, was engaging more and more young people,” says Matt. “Our extensive work with York Carers Centre would always gravitate towards navigating Christmas as the end of the year approached.
Emily Chattle, left, and Annie Rae Donaghy in a down moment in rehearsal for When Robins Appear
“Finally, primary schools wanted more theatre that was fun but could explore big topics for young people, following our tour of How To Be A Kid. So, since January, NDB1 has engaged more than 70 young people, listening to their experiences about winter and Christmas to shape a new script.
“Stories of becoming a young carer, of being in new places, of feeling overwhelmed by changes, of first Christmases without loved ones and so much more.”
Overall, however, rather than stories of sadness, what emerged were tales of incredible resilience and hope in the form of When Robins Appear. “Our show celebrates how families and individuals can create meaningful celebrations that work uniquely for them, and that something different to other people can be cherished and revelled in,” says writer Matt.
“The core message is simple: Your Christmas doesn’t have to look like a greeting card. If it works for you and your loved ones, it’s beautiful and valid.”
When Robins Appear follows two 12-year-old friends as they face the big changes of moving house, starting new schools and a first Christmas without Grandma, when the snow has fallen, the winter stars are twinkling but the sparkle of Christmas seems to be missing.
Equipped with the help of a magical Robin (played by Ceridwen Smith), Ellis (Annie Rae Donaghy) and Lowen (Emily Chattle) are whisked away on a heart-warming journey through their favourite wintery memories to find the magic again.
The poster for Next Door But One’s tour of Explore York libraries with debut Christmas show When Robins Appear
From festive food and colourful fairy lights, to joyful songs and thoughtful gifts, they soon discover that the real sparkle of Christmas will not be found under the tree, but in the laughter, love and unforgettable moments we share together and that can live forever in our hearts.
Given the subject matter, will When Robins Appear still feel festive? “The answer is a big, red-feathered ‘yes’,” says Matt. “Our show is high-energy, packed with catchy songs, an enchanting design and plenty of audience interaction. It’s a festive celebration that gently explores big feelings around change, loss, friendship and what really makes unforgettable moments!
“Co-created with children and young people from across our community – including young carers, those in care, youth theatres and disability and mental health support services – this is as inclusive and meaningful as it is magical.”
Preceded by primary school shows today (11/12/2025) and tomorrow, the ten public performances have all but sold out (all except December 21, 11am, at York Explore): affirmation of the popularity of the £3.50 ticket price.
“We aim to make a heartfelt festive experience affordable to more families in York,” says Matt. “Teaming up with our fantastic friends at Explore York means we can bring affordable theatre right to the doorsteps of families across York this winter,” says Matt.
Making her first theatre appearance back home in York since graduating from East 15 Acting School with first class honours in contemporary theatre, Annie Rae Donaghy will be playing Ellis.
“Not only is When Robins Appear a beautiful story, but it will mean something to everyone in the room watching it,” says Annie Rae Donaghy
“Auditioning for this show really meant something to me,” she says. “I really wanted to be part of it and I rejoiced because I get to have Christmas at home and share mum and dad’s fridge!”
Her motive was more serious than that. “I think this show is the right way to address this subject. It’s all very well talking about it, but if you’re not helping the community you’re performing to, what’s the point of it?” says Annie.
“It’s brought my acting career and my own story and community life together. I grew up looking after my nan, and every Christmas we spend with lots of people at the Xmas Presence party [a festive appeal set up by dad Big Ian Donaghy in 2015 to stop 60 older York residents being lonely at Christmas each year].
“Not only is When Robins Appear a beautiful story, but it will mean something to everyone in the room watching it.”
Next Door But One presents When Robins Appear at York Explore, December 13, 11am and 2pm, and December 14, 11am to 2pm; Tang Hall Explore, December 15, 5.30pm; Clifton Explore, December 18, 5.30pm; York Explore, December 20, 11am and 2pm; December 21, York Explore, 11am (tickets available) and 2pm. Sold out unless stated otherwise.
BSL Interpreted performances are on December 14 at 2pm and December 20 at 11am. Age recommendation: Seven to 11 and their families. All except babes in arms requite a ticket to attend. Box office: www.nextdoorbutone.co.uk.
Annie Rae Donaghy, second from right, performing with Jess Steel, left, Heather Findlay and Beth McCarthy at Big Ian’s A Night To Remember charity fundraiser at York Barbican on November 12. Picture: David Harrison