Polka Theatre Brochure Feb - Aug 2014

Box Office: 020 8543 4888 For information visit: www.polkatheatre.com Box Office: 020 8543 4888 For information visit: www.polkatheatre.com

snapyour polka donation

will be matched

Design: Eureka! w

ww

.eureka.co.uk

February - August 2014

World-class theatre

for children aged 0 -14

Box Office: 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com /polkatheatre @polkatheatre

donate todayJust text POLK22 £5 to 70070, or visit www.polkatheatre.com and click DONATE NOW. For more information on how you can support or sponsor Polka, contact Sonja Lahiff, Fundraising Officer on 020 8545 8368 or email [email protected]

thank you!

© Moomin Characters ™With the support of the Culture programme of the European Union.

Polka is a registered charity no. 256979

Help us light up the imagination in every child – whatever their background or ability.

As a registered charity, we rely on the generous donations from our supporters to ensure we continue to reach over 90,000 children each year.

Every donation you make by June 2014 will be matched £1 for £1 thanks to our Catalyst Arts Award from Arts Council, England. For example your £10 will be worth £20 to Polka children and with Gift Aid potentially as much as £25.

20 FEBRUARY - 8 MARCH Main Theatre • Running time 50 minutes, no interval

Engine House and Lakeside present

A fantastical fairytale adapted by Mike Kenny

Once upon a time there was a young girl who went to spend the night at Grandma’s house… and her little brother came too! She wanted to go to sleep but he was having none of it. Grandma’s attic is far too exciting for sleeping!

Following a sell-out run in 2012 this delightful adaptation of the children’s classic by the Olivier Award-winning Mike Kenny returns to Polka, directed by Matt Aston with songs by Julian Butler.

Tickets £12.50 • Concessions £9 £1.50 transaction charge per booking

4 - 7years

Please refer to our policy on children under this age range (p17)

Join our e-mail list at www.polkatheatre.comBox Office 020 8543 4888 • Book online @ www.polkatheatre.com

A breathtaking musical fantasy based on the novel

by Michael Ende, author of The Neverending Story

In a town not so far away, a friendly orphaned girl called Momo has a mysterious enemy to fight. Creeping through the alleys are the sinister Men in Grey, intent on stealing as much time as they can. With the help of Professor Hora and his clairvoyant tortoise, Momo must save her friends before the world she knows is lost forever.

Momo’s inspirational story comes to life with dazzling vocals, beautiful original songs, puppetry and storytelling.

Adapted from the novel by Michael Ende. Devised by Osnat Schmool and Sabina Netherclift with Annie Siddons. Lyrics and music by Osnat Schmool. Directed by Sabina Netherclift. Written by Annie Siddons. Stage rights: Verlag fuer Kindertheater Weitendorf, Hamburg.

Tickets £12.50 • Concessions £9£1.50 transaction charge per booking

12 - 22 MARCH Main Theatre • Running time 2 hours approx, including interval

Filament Theatre and Greenwich Theatre present

Performance diary p17 -18

Younger than 7? Join us for an All Ages Welcome performance on Sat 22 Mar 11am See p17

welcome!There’s plenty to spark the imagination this spring and summer at Polka. Why not get creative and try something new with one of our Take Part activities? See p10 -12 for a great selection of workshops and courses.

For the Easter holidays, ages 8 -14 are transported to another time and place in the gripping adventure Minotaur.

Moominmania hits Polka in June. Bring the whole family to meet some very cute and curious creatures as Tove Jansson’s much-loved characters come to life in Moominsummer Madness. For younger children this summer, we are excited to bring back our critically acclaimed puppet opera Skitterbang Island.

And that’s not all – take a peek at our Visiting Adventures, showcasing the best children’s theatre from around the country.

See you at Polka soon!

7+years


For exclusive news, games and competitions:

/polkatheatre

@polkatheatre

/polkatheatre

the polka blog Zone!Check out the Polka Blog for the latest behind-the-scenes news, competitions and activities. Visit www.polkatheatre.com/blog

Half-term

holiday fun!

2Box Office 020 8543 4888 • Book online @ www.polkatheatre.com


Younger than 4? Join us for an All Ages Welcome performance see p17 -18 for dates and times

“An imaginative treat to warm the heart” Nottingham Post

© Moomin Characters ™

What’s coming up?

Minotaur p3 - 4

Moominsummer

Madness p5 - 6

Skitterbang

Island p7 - 8

I, Peaseblossom

I, Caliban p9

Take Part p10 - 12

Creative Courses & Workshops

Visiting

Adventures p13 - 15

6 mths -7 yrs

3 - 13years

8+years

3 - 6years

4 - 8years

8 -14years

3 4Box Office 020 8543 4888 • Book online @ www.polkatheatre.com

MinotaurBy Kevin Dyer

Myth meets modern day in a boy’s heroic quest to save his dad

Freddie receives a mysterious text message from his dad, a soldier fighting in a faraway war. He is in trouble and only his son can help.

Transported to the twisting, turning labyrinth of ancient Minos, Freddie must travel through time to fulfil his destiny. Can he slay the half-bull, half-man Minotaur and rescue his father?

The award-winning writer of The Monster under the Bed fuses a modern-day war story with Greek mythology to create a gripping high-stakes adventure.

A co-world premiere by Polka Theatre, Clwyd Theatr Cymru Theatre

for Young People (Wales) and Young People’s Theatre (Toronto, Canada)

Tickets £13.50 • Concessions £9 • Previews £9 £1.50 transaction charge per booking

#minotaur2014

8 - 14 years


take part! Act, sing, dance and create at Polka. See p10 - 12 for our holiday workshops and creative courses.

4 ApRil - 24 MAYMain Theatre • Running time 1 hour and 40 minutes approx, including interval

Polka Theatre and Clwyd Theatr Cymru Theatre for Young People present

Illus

trat

ion

by E

amon

O’D

onog

hue


£9 Saver ShowsFri 4 Apr 7pm, Sat 5 Apr 2pm

After-show TalkSat 19 Apr 2pm

Integrated Sign Language Performance Sat 10 May 2pm Signed by Russell Aldersson and Jacqui Beckford

Audio Described Performance Sat 17 May 2pm

Box Office 020 8543 4888 • Book online @ www.polkatheatre.com

MoominsummerMadness

MoominsummerMadness

MoominsummerMadness


Tove Jansson


11 JUnE - 16 AUgUsT Main Theatre • Running time approx 1 hour 35 minutes, including interval

Polka Theatre and Royal & Derngate, Northampton in association with Little Angel Theatre present

5


£9 Saver ShowsSat 14 Jun 11am & 2.30pm

After-show Talk Sat 26 Jul 2.30pm

Relaxed Performance Sat 28 Jun 11am

Integrated Sign Language Performance Sat 5 Jul 3.30pm Signed by Jacqui Beckford and Martin Fox-Roberts

4 - 8years

Meet the Moomins on a summer adventure

Breathtaking puppetry, live music and humour bring Tove Jansson’s much-loved Moomins to life on stage. When a huge flood sweeps through Moominvalley, the Moomins find an exciting new home… a floating theatre! But why is there a door in the floor? Why does the scenery start changing? And where do Moomintroll, Little My andSnork Maiden disappear to? As strange things start to happen it seems the only way to bring the family backtogether is to put on a play! Tove Jansson’s adorable Moomins have charmed children for generations. Now one of her most popular stories jumps from page to stage, for the perfect summer family treat.

Tickets £13.50 • Concessions £9 • Previews £9£1.50 transaction charge per booking

#moominmadness

Produced by special arrangement with Agency North Ltd, www.agencynorth.com


Moominsummer MadnessBy Tove JanssonTranslated by Thomas Warburton Adapted by Phil PorterDirected by Peter Glanville and Dani Parr


Younger than 4? The whole family can enjoy the show, whatever their age, at an All Ages Welcome performance. See p18 for dates and times

take part! Act, sing, dance and create at Polka. See p10 - 12 for our holiday workshops and creative courses.


Summer Special Offer! SAVE £2.50 per ticket on Moominsummer Madness when you also book for Skitterbang Island**Subject to availability. Not available on concessions, saver shows, previews or school performances. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Please note that under 4s can only be admitted to All Ages Welcome performances of Moominsummer Madness.

7

Illus

trat

ion

by K

risti

na S

war

ner


25 JUnE - 16 AUgUsT Adventure Theatre • Running time 45 minutes, no interval

Polka Theatre and Little Angel Theatre present

A heart-warming puppet opera for children

Storm! Shipwreck! Adventure! Lost on an island in the very north of the world, a brave little girl meets a shy, curious creature… Not only does he look odd, he sounds different too!

Meet the Skitterbang. In his cave full of metal and junk washed up from the sea, he shows her his newest treasure which sounds so beautiful. But who does it really belong to?

Join us for an exciting tale of discovery and friendship as we journey to a magical world full of music, song, rhythm and harmony. Following sell-out performances at Polka in 2010, the critically acclaimed Skitterbang Island sails back for an enchanting summer treat with a difference.

“Delightful in every way… a real treat for

both parents and children” The Guardian

Tickets £11 • Concessions £8.50 £1.50 transaction charge per booking

#skitterbang

Skitterbang IslandBy Phil Porter and Martin WardBased on an original idea by Danny Vice-HoltDirected by Peter Glanville

3 - 6years


Relaxed Performance Sat 19 Jul 11.05am

Phot

ogra

phy

by L

udov

ic d

es C

ogne

ts


take part! Puppets and Sails Workshop

Thu 24 Jul • 10 -11.30am A family puppet workshop inspired by Skitterbang Island for ages 4 - 6 and their parents/carers.

See p10 -12 for more holiday workshops and creative courses.

Summer Special Offer! SAVE £2.50 per ticket on Moominsummer Madness when you also book for Skitterbang Island**Subject to availability. Not available on concessions, saver shows, previews or school performances. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Please note that under 4s can only be admitted to All Ages Welcome performances of Moominsummer Madness.

1212

Act, sing, dance, direct and create at Polka! Whatever you’re interested in, experience life behind the scenes at a real working theatre. Polka has opportunities for everyone to get involved, have fun and learn new skills with top theatre professionals.

playmakers 5 - 9years

Use drama and creative play to develop communication and social skills, build confidence and encourage self expression.

Get creative and develop your own performances over 10 weeks.

9 12Box Office 020 8543 4888 • Book online @ www.polkatheatre.com

creative explorer courses 3 - 5

years

summer schools

Polka’s Summer Puppet TheatreMon 4 - Fri 8 Aug10.30am - 3.30pm

Step onto the Polka Main Stage! At this week-long summer school you will work with a professional puppet maker, director and musician to design and create your own puppet and perform a musical story live. £100

Musical Theatre Summer SchoolMon 11 - Fri 15 Aug10.30 am - 3.30pm

Led by theatre professionals, get set to create songs and dance moves in your very own musical theatre production to be performed on the Polka Main Stage to family and friends at the end of the week. £100

book visit www.polkatheatre.com or call 020 8543 4888For more details and to 1212

Act, sing, dance, direct and create at Polka! Whatever you’re interested in, experience life behind the scenes at a real working theatre. Polka has opportunities for everyone to get involved, have fun and learn new skills with top theatre professionals.

come along and...

take part

10

the pop up tea room In partnership with Tea Dance for Little People

The only cafe that serves you art instead of food! Order what you would like from the menu – your very own story, art activity or musical serenade – and enjoy having it delivered by our especially talented tea ladies and waiters who love to get everyone up and dancing!

Please book a ticket in advance, online or at the Box Office, to avoid disappointment.

0 - 5years

WEd 28 MAY - sAT 31 MAYMain Theatre • Running time 1 hour for each performance

Company of Angels presents

By Tim Crouch

A magical introduction to Shakespeare

Shakespeare’s most popular stories come to life in two fresh, fun shows. Meet Peaseblossom and Caliban as they draw you into A Midsummer Night’s Dream and The Tempest.

I, PeaseblossomA funny, enchanting journey through the world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, brought to life by Peaseblossom, Shakespeare’s most neglected fairy.

I, CalibanA sweet and sorry tale of injustice, magic and missing your mum, as told by Caliban, a puppy-headed monster alone on Prospero’s island at the end of The Tempest.

Both shows are self contained, so you can enjoy just one or both. Why not make a day of it and stay for lunch at Polka in between the two performances.

Tickets £12.50 • Concessions £9 Per show. £1.50 transaction charge per booking

special offer – book both shows for £18* *Subject to availability. Not to be used in conjunction with other offers

8+years



Younger than 8? Join us for an All Ages Welcome performance on Thu 29 May (see p18 for times)

Half-term

holiday fun!

summer schools

Polka’s Summer Puppet TheatreMon 4 - Fri 8 Aug10.30am - 3.30pm

Perform on the Polka Main Stage for friends and family! At this week-long summer school you will work with a professional puppet maker, director and musician to design, create and perform with your own puppet. £100

Musical Theatre Summer SchoolMon 11 - Fri 15 Aug10.30 am - 3.30pm

A whole week of music, dance and drama led by theatre professionals, with the chance to perform on the Polka stage for friends and family at the end of the week. £100

6 - 9years

8 - 13years

book visit www.polkatheatre.com or call 020 8543 4888

New!

Opening Hours:Fridays 31 Jan, 28 Feb, 28 Mar10 - 11am, 11.15am - 12.15pm, 1.30 - 2.30pm, 2.45 - 3.45pm

£10 child, £5 for each extra childAn adult must accompany children, but there is no charge for adult tickets.£1.50 transaction charge per booking

For more details and to book visit www.polkatheatre.com or call 020 8543 4888

Paint Splash SploshTue 25 Feb - 25 Mar

Five fun-filled weeks of multi-sensory messy play sessions as children explore colour, painting, movement and music. Wear old clothes as you will get dirty! £35 for 5 weeks 3 - 4 yrs (foundation) 3 - 3.45pm4 - 5 yrs (reception) 4 - 4.45pm

Summer Safari Tue 3 Jun - Tue 1 Jul

A five-week drama, play and creative movement course to inspire young imaginations. Get out your binoculars and see what animals you can spot under the setting sun as we discover the wildlife, stories and music from Africa.£35 for 5 weeks 3 - 4 yrs (foundation) 3 - 3.45pm4 - 5 yrs (reception) 4 - 4.45pm

Ocean Motion Tue 22 Apr - Tue 20 May

Move and groove to the rhythm of the ocean in a creative movement course exploring what lies beneath the waves. Become scuttling crabs and galloping sea horses; do the eight-legged octopus dance and the jelly fish jive! £35 for 5 weeks 3 - 4 yrs (foundation) 3 - 3.45pm4 - 5 yrs (reception) 4 - 4.45pm

Create and Perform Wed 23 Apr - Wed 2 Jul (excluding 28 May)

4 - 5.30pm

Join us for a 10 week course exploring all aspects of theatre and make your own show. You will create characters, scenes and stories; make the props, the music, songs and dances, to perform at the end of the course for family and friends.

£85 for ten weeks

10

Skitterbang Island: Puppets and Sails

Thu 24 Jul10 -11.30am

A family workshop inspired by Polka’s summer show Skitterbang Island. Kids and parents work together to create puppets, paper boats and sails, led by our professional puppet maker. £18 for child and parent/carer

Quirky Characters: Play in a DayFri 25 Jul10.30am - 3.30pm

We’ve raided the Polka wardrobe so you can create original new characters based on our old props and costumes. Everything you need for a play in a day. £30

Summer FiestaTue 29 Jul10.30am - 3.30pm

Get the party started at this summer style workshop. Create colourful Carnival masks and headdresses and show them off in a parade through Polka. £30

Blue Sky Flying HighWed 30 Jul3 - 4 yrs (foundation) 9.30 - 10.30am 4 - 5 yrs (reception) 11am - 12pm

Shine like the sun or fly away with the birds in a lively movement and drama workshop inspired by the wide blue sky, designed to get children up and moving. £18

Beaches, Bubbles and BoatsThu 31 Jul3 - 4 yrs (foundation) 9.30 - 10.30am 4 - 5 yrs (reception)11am - 12pm

Let’s hit the beach with an imaginative storytelling and drama workshop exploring what we see at the seaside. £18

summer holiday workshops

4 - 6years

6 - 9years

3 - 4years

4 - 5years

3 - 4years

4 - 5years

7 - 11years

Spring Sing SongTue 27 May 3 - 4 yrs (foundation)9.30 - 10.45am4 - 5 yrs (reception)11am - 12.15pm

Calling all songbirds, create stories and sing along to the sounds of spring in this music and storytelling workshop. £18

West End Work OutWed 28 May10.30am - 3.30pm

Sing and dance to your favourite show tunes and flex your musical theatre muscles as you prepare to perform for family and friends at the end of the day. £30

Telling TalesThu 29 May10.30am - 3.30pm

Can you spin a good yarn? Explore ways to bring your stories to life on stage in this drama and storytelling workshop, then perform your ideas for family and friends. £30

Acting UpFri 30 May10am - 1pm

An essential workshop for all budding actors. Get expert advice from a professional actor, learn real acting techniques and devise your own short scenes. £25

may half-term workshops

3 - 4years

4 - 5years

6 - 9years

7 - 11years

8 - 13years


If you take part in a Polka workshop or see a show at Polka, it counts towards your Arts Award.

Polka’s Young Voices Panel has been working hard to guarantee that our workshops for ages 8+ are fun, lively and engaging.

Nursery Rhyme, Story Time, Music MixTue 8 Apr 9.30 - 10.30am11.15am - 12.15pm

This is one for tots and parents. Join us for a family music and story workshop giving a fun new twist to your favourite nursery rhymes and stories. £18 for child and parent/carer

Spring in Your Step!Wed 9 Apr10.30am - 3.30pm

Step, bounce and leap into spring! Bring your coolest moves and work with a professional choreographer to create a movement and dance piece inspired by spring. £30

Physically Funny! Thu 10 Apr10.30am - 3.30pm

Bit of a joker? Then you’ll love this downright hilarious physical clowning and slapstick workshop for all budding comedians and class clowns. £30

Act DirectFri 11 Apr10.30am - 3.30pm

If you love drama, then this is the class for you. Work with a professional theatre director for a day to direct and perform in a brand new piece of theatre. £30

Behind the Scenes: Miniature Theatre Model Box MakingTue 15 Apr10.30am - 3.30pm

Big theatre stage sets start life as a miniature model box. Discover how theatrical designs come to life and create your own small scale theatre in this art and craft workshop exploring stage and costume design.£30

Bouncing Bunnies Bumper WorkshopWed 16 Apr3 - 4 yrs (foundation) 9.30 - 10.45am4 - 5 yrs (reception) 11am - 12.15pm

Bunny ears at the ready… Get your little ones full of the joys of spring with an Easter-themed creative movement and craft workshop. £18

Awesome AdventuresThu 17 Apr10.30am - 3.30pm

Your story, your play, all in one day! Whether hero or villain, devise your own adventure and create a play to perform for family and friends at the end of the day.£30

easter holiday workshops

3 - 4years

4 - 5years

6 - 9years

7 - 11years

7 - 11years

8 - 13years

6 - 9years

0 - 5years

Box Office 020 8543 4888 • Book online @ www.polkatheatre.com11

Dancing DragonsTue 18 Feb10am - 12pm

Create your own Chinese dragon puppet and welcome in the Chinese New Year with a dragon dance! £25

Actor’s Boot CampWed 19 Feb10.30am - 1pm

Back by popular demand! Spend the morning working with a professional actor who’ll put you through your paces with games and exercises. £30

Gorilla Magic Thu 20 Feb

3 - 4 yrs 10 -11.15am4 - 5 yrs 11.30am - 12.15pm

Bring in your own treasured toy and work with our storyteller to bring it to life in a special story. £15

Writer’s LabFri 21 Feb10.30am - 3.30pm

Experiment with different characters, scenes, plots and endings and create your own unique story. £30

february half-term workshops

3 - 4years

4 - 5years

7 - 11years

6 - 8years

8 - 13years

Take Part supported by

Fri 2 - Sat 3 May50 minsFilskit Theatre presents

The Feather CatcherA playful story about friendship, working together and mischievous feathers. Freda loves feathers but there’s one special feather that she just can’t catch on her own. Can Greta help her quest and teach her about friendship at the same time? This non-verbal show uses live music and beautiful projection to tell a delightful tale of teamwork.

Sat 10 May50 minsNorwich Puppet Theatre presents

The Frog and the Princess An entertaining and musical retelling of the traditional Brothers Grimm story that follows the journey of a Princess and a Frog as they become friends. These humorous characters display traits that children can recognise and empathise with, in a puppet play that looks at what can happen when different cultures meet.

More Visiting Adventures over the page.

Thu 20 - Sat 22 MarThu 15 - Sat 17 May55 mins Word Pepper presents

The PoetryJoe Show Join PoetryJoe, star of CBeebie’s Rhyme Rocket, for his light-up world of fabulous foods, beastly bugs and peculiar pets! Meet lots of new friends – a naughty but nice hamster, a cheating cheetah and a whole family made out of paper and light. This magical introduction to poetry mixes interaction with live performance, giving children the chance to write their own poem.

Tue 25 - Sat 29 Mar45 minsLittle Angel Theatre presents

Dogs Don’t Do BalletBiff is not like ordinary dogs. He likes moonlight, music and walking on his tiptoes. You see, Biff doesn’t think he’s a dog, Biff thinks he’s a ballerina. Based on the popular picture book, this hilarious story of a small dog with a big personality and even bigger dreams comes to life with beautiful puppets, music and comedy.

Sat 5 Apr45 minsRipstop Theatre presents

A Real Fairy TaleA show full of wonder and mayhem for anyone who believes in magic. Follow the quest to uncover the exciting story about a child who has ventured into Fairyland and must be rescued from the clutches of the Fairy Queen. Inspired by the Cottingley Fairies, this fantastical tale blends shadow puppetry with stunning projections and animation.

Tue 8 - Sat 12 Apr45 minsHand to Mouth Theatre presents

Town Mouse Country MouseA tale of bravery and mousey heroics as Hickory goes into the Big Wide World and meets Lady Dickory the Town Mouse. Expect musical chickens and a guest appearance from The Man in the Moon in a thoughtful, funny and musical puppet play based on the well-known fable.

Tue 4 - Sat 8 Mar30 mins +10 mins playtimeSarah Argent & Theatr Iolo presents

Out of the BlueAn enchanting performance for babies and toddlers full of captivating images and intriguing sounds followed by playtime. He’s waiting for something to arrive… Ding, dong, doorbell. A parcel. “What’s inside?” There’s paper to play with – scrunch, crunch, rip, rustle. Hiding… “Peek-a-boo!” Then, out of the blue, the most special delivery of all…

Fri 14 - Sat 15 Mar45 minsCrooked Timber presents

Liang and the Magic Paintbrush Liang dreams of being a painter but is too poor to buy himself a paintbrush. Join him on a magical adventure where his wish can come true. An inventive and gentle show that uses puppets, origami, live painting and video images to bring this much-loved Chinese tale to life.

Polka showcase the best early years theatre from around the countryTickets for Visiting Adventures are £11, £8.50 concessions (£1.50 transaction charge per booking)

group discount – Book 10 tickets and get the 11th free See p17 - 18 for performance times

visiting adventures

3 - 6years

3 - 6years

3 - 6years

4 - 7years 2 - 6

years

4 - 7years

3 - 6years

3 - 6years

4 - 7years

4 - 6years

2 - 3years

6 -18mths

1413

Wed 19 - Sat 22 Feb40 minsMajor Mustard presents

Ugly Duckling Funky Feathers is feeling low. Can Major Mustard cheer him up? In this lively version of Hans Christian Anderson’s popular story, Major Mustard combines puppetry, music and storytelling to give a new flavour to a well-known tale.

Fri 28 Feb - Sat 1 Mar45 minsFreehand Theatre presents

Who’s Been Sitting in my Chair?A playful and musical interpretation of a tale that’s not too big and not too small, but just right. Everyone knows the story of the Three Little Bears, but when they won’t wake up, it’s not so easy to tell! Luckily one little girl is always a step ahead and when small bear gets lost, we all have to go on a bear hunt.

Tue 15 - Sat 19 Apr 45 mins + playtimeTell Tale Hearts presents

Yummm! An imaginative look at food through the eyes of a child using dance, comedy, live music and some amusing eating utensils. This interactive experience where tables can dance and plates spin includes a play session where the children get to serve the adults.

Tue 22 - Thu 24 Apr 35 mins + playtime

Yummm! Enjoy a tailor-made performance of Yumm! for ages 2 - 3 and celebrate all that is messy at meal times! Followed by a short play activity where the children get their own utensils to play with.

Fri 25 - Sat 26 AprThu 22 - Sat 24 May35 mins + 10 mins playtimeBirdsnest Theatre presents

WashJoin the adventures of a favourite toy needing its very first wash, with song, rhythm, puppetry and movement. From its first dip in the warm soapy water to styling his soft clean fur, this multi-sensory experience allows you to touch and feel each stage of the journey. With the support of the Small Size Seeding Fund

6 mths - 3 yrs

Box Office 020 8543 4888 • Book online @ www.polkatheatre.com Box Office 020 8543 4888 • Book online @ www.polkatheatre.com

Easter holiday

Easter holiday

world of stories and musicGet inspired with a free Saturday morning of storytelling

featuring some of the most dynamic spoken word artists and storytellers in the UK today.

How do I get tickets? Email [email protected] by 5pm on Monday 17 Februrary with your name, address, the date you would like (up to four per family). We’ll let you know if you have been allocated tickets by Monday 24 February.

Sat 1 MarchWe welcome Jeanette Barrett for some African Caribbean Stories with a twist.

Sat 5 AprilAcclaimed storyteller and musician Winston Nzinga joins us to share the Ghanian story of Kofi and the Lion and Mother and Baby Fish from Guyana.

Sat 3 MayJoin Christine Cooper for tales of the seven seas where you’ll fight pirates, visit the Sea King’s palace, board a ship of the dead, and sing plenty of sea shanties along the way.

Sat 7 JuneUsifu Jalloh entertains us with drumming, dancing and songs from Sierra Leone.

Sat 5 JulyWe welcome Samantha Adams with new and old tales from the African and Caribbean tradition. In this exuberant story performance, listeners are invited to share their own favourite story characters too!

3 +years

Small size, big citizens

As the UK partner within Small size, the network project funded by The European Community EACEA to promote the performing arts within early childhood across 12 countries, Polka receives funding to support our programme of visiting productions for early years and in particular to develop, promote and subsidise theatre for babies and toddlers. Two of our featured productions this season have benefited from the project’s Seed Fund and we are delighted to bring back Out of the Blue and Wash previously developed with the support of Small size and in collaboration with Polka.

27 May - 7 Jun35 minsTravelling Light and Bristol Old Vic present

How Cold My ToesA fun-filled journey through the seasons performed by the award-winning theatre company Travelling Light. From the seed-sprouting vitality of spring to the frosty frozen fingers of winter, this magical mix of performance, music and dance will captivate and delight young children and their families. Winter’s never been this hot and summer’s never been this cool!

“This charming show bursts with a heightened sense of fun”The Guardian

Fri 13 - Sat 14 Jun45 minsHand To Mouth Theatre presents

Jack at the Beanstalk CafeCustomers at the Beanstalk Cafe tell each other stories using anything they can lay their hands on, including the tables, tablecloths, food and cutlery. Watch as two full-grown adults play with their food and learn how many beans make five, using live animation, shadows, puppets and music.

2 - 5years

3 - 6years

general information

How to Find UsPolka Theatre is a short walk from Wimbledon Station for the Tramlink, Underground (District Line) and National Rail (14 mins from Waterloo) and South Wimbledon Underground Station (Northern Line). For a map and details on how to get to Polka please visit www.polkatheatre.com

ParkingThere are car parks in Wimbledon Town Centre and limited pay-and-display bays near the theatre. See www.polkatheatre.com for details.

Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway Wimbledon London SW19 1SB

Building opening hours:Tue - Fri: 9.30am - 4.30pm Sat: 10am - 4.30pm

access We are committed to making Polka accessible to everyone. If you have any access requirements, please let us know when booking.

15

How to BookOnline: Select your own seats atwww.polkatheatre.com

By Phone: 020 8543 4888Mon 9.30am - 4.30pmTue - Fri 9.30am - 5pmSat 10am - 4.30pm

In person: Opening timesTue - Fri 9.30am - 4.30pmSat 10am - 4.30pm

DiscountsConcessions are available for those registered unemployed or receiving benefits (includes Pension Credits). A 20% concessionary rate is available for workshops. For group bookings, every eleventh ticket is free. Reduced-price preview tickets, where available, are limited to four per family. Free carer/companion tickets are available.

Refunds and ExchangesWe are unable to refund or exchange tickets, so please do check your tickets at the time of purchase. We accept tickets for re-sale if a performance is sold out, but a small charge will be made.

Access at PolkaEnjoy free wireless internet access throughout Polka.

Hiring the TheatreThe Main Theatre and other rooms are available to hire for conferences, meetings, parties, film screenings and launches.Call Kim on 020 8545 8334 or email [email protected]

Mailing ListTo join our free mailing or email list, please contact the Box Office or sign up online www.polkatheatre.com

Pop in to Play at PolkaWhy not make time when you visit to use the café, playground or garden, see the Teddy Bear Exhibition or read in the book corner? Drop in any time we’re open – play facilities are free to use and you don’t need a ticket.

Box Office 020 8543 4888 • Book online @ www.polkatheatre.com Box Office 020 8543 4888 • Book online @ www.polkatheatre.com

With the support of the Culture programme of the European Union.

16

Polka Café and Children’s PartiesOpen Tue - Fri, 9.30am - 4.30pm, and Sat, 10am - 4.30pm, serving a delicious range of hot and cold meals and snacks. Children’s tea parties are also available. For more information call 020 8545 8330 or email [email protected] menus can be viewed at www.polkatheatre.com/editorial/polka-cafe

Babies and ToddlersBaby-changing facilities and a buggy park are available at the theatre and café staff will happily warm up baby food.

Wheelchair access

Induction loop

Integrated Sign Language Performances Audio Described Performances Working dogs welcome

Relaxed performances

Accessible toilet

Touch tours

Specialist workshops

Scripts available in advance

Large print brochure available by request.

Box Office: 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com

Mer

ton

sch

oo

l h

oli

day

s

Mer

ton

sch

oo

l h

oli

day

s

Mer

ton

sch

oo

l H

oli

day

s

Mer

ton

sch

oo

l h

oli

day

sM

erto

n s

cho

ol

ho

lid

ays

17 18

Diary Key

Reduced-price Preview Performance

£9 Saver Show

After-show Talk

All Ages Welcome

Relaxed Performance

Integrated Sign Language Performance

Audio Described Performance

Free Storytelling (see p 15)

Schools Performance Families are very welcome to attend schools performances. Please check times and availability in advance by calling the Box Office.

All Ages Welcome Designated performances where the whole family can enjoy the show, whatever their age. These performances are not altered in any way, but allow you to still see a show if you also have children under the recommended age range.

FEBRUARY 2014

We 19 Ugly Duckling 11.05/2.35

Th 20 Red Riding Hood 11.00/2.30 Ugly Duckling 11.05 / 2.35

Fr 21 Red Riding Hood 11.00 /2.30 Ugly Duckling 11.05/2.35

Sa 22 Red Riding Hood 11.00 /2.30 Ugly Duckling 11.05/2.35

Tu 25 Red Riding Hood

We 26 Red Riding Hood

Th 27 Red Riding Hood

Fr 28 Pop-up Tea Room See p9 Red Riding Hood Who's Been… 10.35/2.05

MARCH 2014

Sa 1 World of Stories Red Riding Hood 12.00 /2.30 Who's Been… 12.05/2.35

Tu 4 Red Riding Hood Out of the Blue 10.35/2.05

We 5 Red Riding Hood Out of the Blue 10.35/12.30/2.05

Th 6 Red Riding Hood Out of the Blue 10.35/2.05

Fr 7 Red Riding Hood Out of the Blue 10.35/2.05

Sa 8 Red Riding Hood 10.30 /2.30 Out of the Blue 10.35/12.30/2.35

We 12 Momo

Th 13 Momo

Fr 14 Momo Liang & Magic… 10.35/2.05

Sa 15 Momo 11.00/2.30 Liang & Magic… 11.05/2.35

Tu 18 Momo

We 19 Momo

Th 20 Momo PoetryJoe Show 10.35/2.05

Fr 21 Momo PoetryJoe Show 10.35/2.05

Sa 22 Momo 11.00 /2.30 PoetryJoe Show 11.05/2.35

Tu 25 Dogs Don't… 2.00

We 26 Dogs Don't… 10.30/2.00

Th 27 Dogs Don't… 10.30 /2.00

Fr 28 Pop-up Tea Room See p9 Dogs Don't… 10.30/2.00

Sa 29 Dogs Don't… 10.30/12.00/2.30

APRIL 2014

Fr 4 Minotaur 7.00

Sa 5 World of Stories Minotaur 2.00 Real Fairy Tale 12.00/2.05

Tu 8 Minotaur 2.00 Town Mouse… 11.05/2.05

We 9 Minotaur 2.00 Town Mouse… 11.05/2.05

Th 10 Minotaur 2.00 Town Mouse… 11.05/2.05

Fr 11 Minotaur 2.00 Town Mouse… 11.05/2.05

Sa 12 Minotaur 2.00 Town Mouse… 11.05/2.05

Tu 15 Minotaur 2.00 Yummm! 4-6yrs 11.05/2.05

We 16 Minotaur 2.00 Yummm! 4-6yrs 11.05/2.05

Th 17 Minotaur 2.00 Yummm! 4-6yrs 11.05/2.05

Fr 18 Minotaur 2.00 Yummm! 4-6yrs 11.05/2.05

Sa 19 Minotaur 2.00 Yummm! 4-6yrs 11.05 /2.05

Tu 22 Minotaur Yummm! 2-3yrs 10.35/2.05

We 23 Minotaur Yummm! 2-3yrs 10.35/2.05

Th 24 Minotaur Yummm! 2-3yrs 10.35 / 2.05

Fr 25 Minotaur Wash 10.35/2.05

Sa 26 Minotaur 2.00 Wash 11.05 /2.05

Tu 29 Minotaur

We 30 Minotaur

Fr 6 How Cold… 10.30/2.00

Sa 7 World of Stories How Cold… 12.00/3.00

We 11 Moomins

Th 12 Moomins

Fr 13 Moomins Jack… 10.35/2.05

Sa 14 Moomins 11.00 /2.30 Jack… 11.05/2.35

Tu 17 Moomins

We 18 Moomins

Th 19 Moomins

Fr 20 Moomins

Sa 21 Moomins 11.00 /2.30

We 25 Moomins Skitterbang… 10.05/1.35

Th 26 Moomins Skitterbang… 10.05/1.35

Fr 27 Moomins Skitterbang… 10.05/1.35

Sa 28 Moomins 11.00 /2.30 Skitterbang… 11.05/2.35

Su 29 Moomins 12.00/3.00 Skitterbang… 12.05/3.05

JULY 2014

Tu 1 Moomins Skitterbang… 10.05/1.35




Sa 5 World of Stories Moomins 12.00 /3.30 Skitterbang… 12.05/3.35

Tu 8 Skitterbang… 10.35/2.05

We 9 Skitterbang… 10.35/2.05

Th 10 Skitterbang… 10.35/2.05

Fr 11 Skitterbang… 10.35/2.05

Sa 12 Skitterbang… 11.05/2.35

Tu 15 Moomins Skitterbang… 10.35/2.05


MAY 2014

Th 1 Minotaur

Fr 2 Minotaur Feather Catcher 10.35/2.05

Sa 3 World of Stories Minotaur 2.00 Feather Catcher 12.00/2.05

Tu 6 Minotaur

We 7 Minotaur

Th 8 Minotaur

Fr 9 Minotaur

Sa 10 Minotaur 2.00 Frog & Princess 11.05/2.05

Tu 13 Minotaur

We 14 Minotaur

Th 15 Minotaur PoetryJoe Show 10.35/2.05

Fr 16 Minotaur PoetryJoe Show 10.35/2.05

Sa 17 Minotaur 2.00 PoetryJoe Show 11.05/2.05

Tu 20 Minotaur

We 21 Minotaur

Th 22 Minotaur Wash 10.35/2.05

Fr 23 Minotaur Wash 10.35/2.05

Sa 24 Minotaur 2.00 Wash 11.05/2.05

Tu 27 How Cold… 2.30

We 28 I, Peaseblossom 11.30 I, Caliban 2.00 How Cold… 10.30/2.05

Th 29 I, Caliban 11.30 I, Peaseblossom 2.00 How Cold… 10.30/2.05

Fr 30 I, Peaseblossom 11.30 I, Caliban 2.00 How Cold… 10.30/2.05

Sa 31 I, Caliban 11.30 I, Peaseblossom 2.00 How Cold… 10.30/2.05

JUNE 2014

Tu 3 How Cold… 10.30/2.00

We 4 How Cold… 10.30/2.00

Th 5 How Cold… 10.30/2.00



Sa 19 Moomins 2.30 Skitterbang… 11.05 /2.35

Tu 22 Moomins 2.30 Skitterbang… 11.05/2.35

We 23 Moomins 11.00 /2.30 Skitterbang… 11.05/2.35

Th 24 Moomins 2.30 Skitterbang… 11.05/2.35

Fr 25 Moomins 11.00 /2.30 Skitterbang… 11.05/2.35


Tu 29 Moomins 2.30 Skitterbang… 11.05 /2.35


Th 31 Moomins 2.30 Skitterbang… 11.05/2.35

AUGUST 2014

Fr 1 Moomins 11.00 /2.30 Skitterbang… 11.05/2.35




Th 7 Moomins 11.00 /2.30 Skitterbang… 11.05/2.35





Th 14 Moomins 11.00 /2.30 Skitterbang… 11.05/2.35



diary MAIN THEATRE SHOWS IN VIOLET

ADVENTURE THEATRE SHOWS IN PINK

To help you chose the most suitable show for your children please take note of age ranges. We cannot admit children under the recommended age range into the Main Theatre, except for performances marked All Ages Welcome.

Recommended Age Ranges

Relaxed Performances Aimed at children with autism, learning disabilities and sensory and communication disorders. Tickets for these performances must be booked by calling the Box Office.

Polka Theatre Brochure Feb - Aug 2014

Documents

Transcript of Polka Theatre Brochure Feb - Aug 2014