JN Junior: Seder night, a dragon in sight plus holiday fun reaching a new height

Genius Jenna

Pesach is nearly here, which means people all over the world will be eating matzah, digging out the hagadahs and having a seder night, or two.

The Jewish holiday centres around the retelling of the biblical story of the Jewish people being freed from slavery in Egypt and this miraculous exodus. We will drink four cups of wine (or grape juice!), taste the bitterness of slavery with a bite of maror (bitter herbs), and sample the sweetness of freedom with a mouthful of charoset (a sweet mixture of wine, apples, and nuts).

It is also tradition for the youngest child at the Seder to present ‘the Four Questions’ (Mah Nisgtanah) where we ask about certain Passover rituals that make ‘this night’ different to all other nights. These questions include: why is matzah eaten? Why do we eat maror ? Why is the meat that is eaten exclusively roasted?  And why do we dip food twice?

Questions are such an important way for us to find out about people and the world. If I could ask anyone a question, it would be David Attenborough. I would ask: “What’s your favourite animal?” and “Do you have any pets?”

Who would you ask a question to and what would it be?

JACOB LEWIS, Age 9, North London

My family and I are big Star Wars fans, and we love watching the films together. In 2012 Disney brought the Star Wars franchise and made films 7, 8 and 9.  For some people, Disney has ruined Star Wars. My question would be to George Lucus; “If Disney hadn’t brought the Star Wars franchise, how would you have ended the films and what do you think of Disney’s interpretation?

Just for Laughs with Ivor Baddiel

What did King Arthur say when Sir Lancelot turned up to the round table in a purple and orange suit of armour?

Why is this knight so different to all other knights?

Good News for… How to Train Your Dragon fans

‘Hot’ news – there is going to be a new live-action How To Train Your Dragon film. Unrelated to the animated trilogy, this film, based on the book by Cressida Cowell is expected to hit our screens in March 2025. It will be produced by Marc Platt Productions and distributed by Universal Pictures, with Dean DeBlois, who also directed the animated films in the series, set to return to write and direct this one too! Popcorntastic!

What’s on in April… Easter Holidays!

Circa at the Southbank Centre

A symphony of acrobatics, sound and light is taking place at the Southbank as the unique circus by Circa brings it Humans 2.0 to London. Directed by Yaron Lifschitz it will run at the Southbank Centre’s Queen Elizabeth Hall from 12-16 April. For those aged over 8.

www.southbankcentre.co.uk

BBC Earth Experience

Experience an unforgettable journey through the natural world, exploring the seven continents on an epic scale as the BBC Earth Experience has just opened in Earls Court, London (30 March). With narration from David Attenborough, this transformative audio- visual experience for all the family will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the natural world, connecting with animals from different countries. No passport required!

www.bbcearthexperience.com

London Children’s Ballet – Snow White

Young audiences will enjoy watching young performers in The London Children’s Ballet performance of Snow White. Taking place at the Peacock Theatre  (Sadlers Wells) 13 – 16 April.

www.sadlerswells.com

Easter Run Regent’s Park

The London Easter Run that’s perfect for families returns to Regent’s Park. There’s a main 10k race, an Adults Fun Run plus a shorter Children’s Race, with Easter goodies waiting on the finish line, along with a special bespoke Easter themed medal. Dressing up is optional! Monday 10 April.

www.nice-work.org.uk/races/london-easter-10k

Peter Rabbit Easter Adventure

Beatrix Potter’s much-loved characters come to life a live immersive outdoor experience for families in London’s Covent Garden. The Peter Rabbit Easter Adventure runs until 16 April.

www.peterrabbiteasteradventure.com