Polka Theatre

A theatre dedicated to producing ground-breaking work for children. Our autumn season is as follows. 27 Sept – 26 Oct Polka Theatre and Tonic Theatre present The Planet and Stuff (KS2 and KS3) By Simon Daw, Joel Horwood and Lucy Kerbel One simple question: ‘How can we solve climate change?’ Get ready for a frenzied, fun-packed, interactive adventure, as we tackle the debate that continues to outfox scientists and world leaders. From what’s going on up in the atmosphere to where that sweet wrapper in your pocket came from, and where it might end up, climate change takes centre stage. Part live science demo, part hyperactive game show, The Planet and Stuff is the straight-talking climate change event with all the answers. Exploding with fun, facts and audience participation, this show will give you lots to talk about, and has been specifically created for ages 9 -13 in partnership with children from Polka’s Young Voices Panel. 16 Oct 2013 – 15 Feb 2014 Polka Theatre presents Gorilla By Anthony Browne Adapted by Rachel Barnett Hannah loves gorillas, but she’s never seen a real one. It’s the night before her birthday and something amazing is about to happen... When Hannah’s toy gorilla comes to life, dressed in her father’s coat and hat, they embark on a thrilling, moonlit adventure. Meet the world’s friendliest gorilla this winter as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the classic award-winning picture book by former Children’s Laureate Anthony Browne – brought to life with puppetry, music and a giant sprinkling of Polka magic. Toddlers can enjoy a special version of Gorilla tailor-made for children aged 1 - 2 years; Mini Gorilla runs at just 30 minutes. Early booking is strongly advised due to reduced capacity at these performances. Thur 7 - Sat 9 Nov Mind the Gap presents Treasure Island By Mike Kenny Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic story of young Jim Hawkins and Long John Silver, retold by acclaimed children’s writer Mike Kenny - with a twist. Modern-day and fantasy worlds collide as a supermarket becomes the scene for the greatest pirate story of them all; turning aisles into adventure and carrots into parrots. Jump aboard this swashbuckling adventure from Mind the Gap, the award-winning theatre company that works with learning disabled and non-disabled artists as equals. 22 Nov 2013 – 15 Feb 2014 Polka Theatre presents Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland By Simon Reade Based on the novel by Lewis Carroll Curiouser and curiouser... When Alice falls down a mysterious rabbit hole she stumbles upon a magical fantasy world where anything can happen. Based on the much-loved children’s classic, Lewis Carroll’s charming characters spring to life in an enchanting show full of music, madness and mystery. Take tea with the Mad Hatter, meet the White Rabbit, grin with the Cheshire Cat and play croquet with the Queen of Hearts, but whatever you do… don’t lose your head! Join us in Wonderland this winter for a thrilling adventure that’s bursting with laughter, imagination, original songs and stunning staging.