CHRISTMAS just isn't the same without Raymond Briggs' The Snowman.

And you can make the animated classic even more magical with a trip to the Parr Hall on December 20.

Carrot Productions will be presenting The Snowman complete with a live orchestra.

Warrington families will also be able to see an animated film of the award-winning book The Bear and the Piano by David Litchfield.

This tale of music, friendship and adventure was first brought to the big screen in 2017, in a specially commissioned version by Carrot Productions.

It features music by Daniel Whibley played live by a professional orchestra, and a narration recorded by Joanna Lumley.

Joanna Lumley said: "In the tradition of Peter and the Wolf and The Snowman, The Bear and the Piano is an enchanting story told with glorious music and is a bewitching treat for all ages."

Dan Whibley added: “My inspiration came from the beautiful illustrations and heartwarming story – from the sounds and remoteness of the huge forest to the energy of the big city, and from the first tentative attempts playing the piano to the international superstar.

"I have interspersed my own music with a few well known piano pieces that I hope bring the story to life.”

The orchestra performing The Snowman and The Bear and The Piano have been drawn from some of the top musicians in the country, including members of The Hallé and the BBC Philharmonic.

A young soloist from the Warrington area will also be selected after auditions in autumn to sing Walking in the Air solo which lies at the heart of The Snowman.

Performances at Parr Hall will take place at 1.45pm and 7pm on December 20.

Click here to make a booking.