Polka Theatre has revealed a diverse programme of events, including productions and workshops.
Artistic director Helen Matravers and executive director Lynette Shanbury have planned the activities aimed at empowering and inspiring children.
The main attraction is the “Easter egg-stravaganza” production of “Chicken Licken”, set to run from April 5 to May 11 in the main theatre.
The show, a collaboration between Polka Theatre, Hiccup Theatre, and Derby Theatre, promises live music, songs, puppetry, and fun.
Helen Matravers said: “Polka’s work with Derby Theatre and Hiccup is leading the way in accessible performance for young audiences, and I am excited to be working with these incredible organisations at the forefront of what exceptional BSL-led work can be for our audiences.
“Polka works tirelessly to break down barriers so that all children can experience inspiring theatre, and this show not only offers incredible accessibility, but is a gorgeously inventive, fun and playful production for children and families to enjoy.
“The songs, puppetry and storytelling take us all on a familiar journey, and I can’t wait to share it on Polka’s main stage this Easter.”
The cast for Chicken Licken includes Laura Crow, Laura Goulden, Brooklyn Melvin, Phillipa Russell, and Ivan Stott, and is directed by Sarah Brigham.
Another production, “Sisters 360,” will run from March 22 to April 27.
Written by Asif Khan, it tells the story of two hijabi step-sisters, Fatima and Salima, as they aim to win a skateboarding competition.
Aside from the productions, Polka Theatre will host various creative workshops over the Easter period.
“Springtime Stories” is a sensory storytelling workshop for toddlers and their parents, set to be held on April 8.
“Musical Fun on the Polka Farm!” will take place from April 9 to April 10 for children aged five to eight.
This workshop will allow children to create an original farmyard musical theatre piece and make their own instruments.
For older children, a Street Dance Masterclass will be held from April 15 to April 16, aimed at nine to 12-year-olds.
This will focus on the foundations of breakdance and hip hop.
Finally, “Sing & Sign Playtime!” will take place on April 17 for those aged four and above.
This session will encourage movement and dance to the theatre’s Chicken Licken show songs, with a trained British Sign Language (BSL) practitioner on hand to teach signing.
Polka Theatre is one of the few dedicated children’s venues in the UK.
After reopening in 2021 following a major renovation, it continues to present a year-round programme of shows and creative learning activities for ages 12 and under.
Over the past year, more than 21,000 children have participated in these activities.
In addition to the productions and workshops, Polka Theatre is open six days a week, 50 weeks a year, with free-to-access indoor and outdoor play areas, a café, and a shop.
Tickets for the shows and workshops are on sale now via the Polka Theatre website.
