Merry & More Mart pop-up brings festive artisan market and food to Shoreditch alongside Nutcracker Noir immersive theatre

The Merry & More Mart, a festive seasonal pop-up market, will open its doors at Protein Studios in Shoreditch, east London, from the 25^th of November to the 21^st of December. The event offers a curated selection of independent artisan stalls, food vendors, and festive treats, and serves as a companion experience to the immersive theatre production The Nutcracker Noir, also running at the venue during the same period.

The pop-up market will feature a variety of small businesses and local makers, including Burns by Burns candles, Soapsmith soaps, Novice Kitchen’s Sichuan Crunch Chilli Oil, and Mission Kitchen’s handmade food and drink products. Visitors will also be able to browse gifts and accessories such as tote bags, caps, and Santa sacks. For pet owners, Santa Paws will be the destination for dog-friendly drinks and toys.

Utter Waffle, an award-winning food vendor with a wide range of gluten-free offerings, will take up its first residency in East London as part of the Mart. The menu includes dishes the likes of James, Jules & The Giant Peach – a cinnamon sugar waffle topped with smoked bacon, caramelised peach, and rosemary honey – and The Wafflin’ Chicken, a mozzarella and thyme-stuffed waffle with fried chicken, pickles, and hot honey. The vendor will also sell branded merchandise such as Keep Cups, T-shirts, and waffle-themed dog toys.

The venue will be transformed into a festive setting with bold graphics, seasonal music, and themed decor. Hot drinks, including mulled wine, gingerbread lattes, and two varieties of hot chocolate, will be available, alongside nostalgic confectionery from Posh Pick’n’Mix.

The market functions as a prelude to Secret Theatre’s The Nutcracker Noir, which combines immersive storytelling, dance, music, and a five-course dining experience from Jenny McNeill of Gingerline and The Fat Duck. All ticket holders to the show will receive a welcome drink and festive treat at the Merry & More Mart. The pop-up aims to recreate a joyful and immersive environment for both theatre-goers and the general public.

Food Desk

The Merry & More Mart will take place at Protein Studios, 31 New Inn Yard, London, EC2A 3EY. For more information, visit The Nutcracker Noir’s website here.