King William’s College’s theatre hosted a festive screening of The Nutcracker, live from London’s Royal Opera House, with the sold-out event raising more than £220 for the Isle of Man Foodbank.

Guests were invited to drinks and food beforehand at the Abbey restaurant in Ballasalla, and upon arriving at the theatre for the screening they were greeted by Father Christmas, who was waiting with gifts for the youngest guests.

Theatre manager David Dawson said: ’Each year we like to say thank you to our patrons for their support, and the festive gathering at the Abbey restaurant allowed us to wish them all a merry Christmas, and Santa kindly accepted our invitation to attend, bringing along presents for our youngest patrons.

’It’s wonderful to see our events growing and the theatre becoming a loved venue by many within the community.

’During the interval guests enjoyed mince pies, hot chocolate and mulled wine before enjoying the final act of a wonderful performance of The Nutcracker - Peter Wright’s production for the Royal Ballet is probably the definitive version, and it was the perfect festive entertainment for all ages within our audience.’

From January, live screenings include the opera, Tosca, and the play, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.