A screen shot of the TV series of Box Delights showing an elderly man with a bushy grey beard standing behind a young boy in a brown jumper, his left hand on the boy's right shoulder. They are in a church and behind them are a choir, a bishop and numerous lit candles.

Kaleidoscope: A Box Of Delights!

About Kaleidoscope: A Box Of Delights!

TV archivists Kaleidoscope get into the festive spirit with a collection of tinsel draped televisual rarities, including footage from ITV’s Armchair Theatre and a compilation of Christmassy moments from Blue Peter over the years. Audience members can also enjoy a special presentation from Box Of Delights expert Dr Phil Errington on the different adaptations of John Masefield’s novel, including the much loved 1984 TV series.

10am: Billy Bunter's Christmas Box
Originally transmitted 1956

10.30am: It’s a Knockout
Untransmitted edition which has never been seen in public until this screening.

11.25am: Armchair Theatre
Hear the Tiger, See the Bay (1962)

12.25pm: Tiswas
11 minutes of this lost 1981 edition found by Bryan Bath on a VHS tape donated to Kaleidoscope.

12.35pm: The Prime Minister Broadcasts
Edward Heath MP appeals for calm during industrial unrest at Christmas. Followed by a special Christmas greeting from Jim Hacker (Yes Minister).

12.50pm: Lunch

1.20pm: Christmas Peter
A compilation of Christmas moments from Blue Peter throughout the years.

2.10pm: Doctor Phil Errington on The Box Of Delights
A world expert on The Box of Delights gives a presentation about the various book, radio series and TV adaptations of the John Masefield novel.

3.10pm: Afternoon Tea

3.30pm: Queen of Hearts
Danny La Rue panto originally transmitted 25/12/1973

5pm: Close


Booking info

To book Accessible tickets and free Companion tickets, please visit our Accessible Bookings page. Companion tickets will initially show a standard ticket price, but once your account is set-up and you are logged in, this will be reduced to £0 at checkout.

Duration includes trailers, adverts and any Q&A/panel. For events such as NT Live, Colour Box and Reel & Meal there will be minimal advertising. We do not admit latecomers after the main feature has started and we have a limited food & drink policy.

MAC’s cinema programme has been generously supported by BFI Film Audience Network and Film Hub Midlands.

Dates and times

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