Cosy up in a dressing gown and slippers, grab a fresh cup of cocoa and prepare to be swept away into a heartwarming holiday story like no other.
‘Twas the night before Christmas
When all through the land
The sick were still cared for, by an NHS hand.
This year, Thackray has been transformed into a delicate winter wonderland straight out of a picture book. Step into the Night Before NHS Christmas.
While most of us snuggle down in our beds on Christmas Eve, waiting for the big day to arrive, there are dedicated NHS staff across the country preparing for another long night shift to keep us healthy and happy.
Inspired by stories shared with us by NHS staff across the Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust, renowned paper artist and illustrator Andy Singleton will be decking out our halls with ornate paper sculptures. As you wander through the museum, these intricate creations will bring the stories of hardworking NHS heroes to life — with care, creativity, and a great big dollop of festive feeling.
But the magic doesn’t stop there! Every weekend, local award-winning theatre company Wrongsemble will add an additional dose of medical magic to the narrative, bringing these extraordinary experiences to life through pop-up performances of theatre and song across our building.
Prepare to be immersed in a unique and heartwarming take on a festive classic, The Night Before Christmas.
This project is made possible by the generous contributions of the National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players.
About our Collaborators
Andy Singleton is a paper artist and illustrator based in Wakefield. His work is an exploration of the natural and manmade world through intricate paper cuttings, paper sculpture, hand drawn illustrations and large-scale installations. Andy has produced work for variety of clients, including Harrods, Kensington Palace, Manchester Art Gallery and The Hepworth.
Wrongsemble is a Leeds-based theatre company specialising in working with and creating work for young people, schools and families. They are Resident Company with Slung Low at Temple, and have worked with the likes of The British Library, Leeds Libraries and Gala, Durham.
Access
If you have any specific access requirements you would like to discuss in advance of your visit please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected].
