Has your Child Experienced the Theatre
For many people the idea of going to the theatre with their family conjures up images of dragging reluctant kids on school trips to see Shakespeare, or over-excited kids at the annual visit to the Panto. But it doesn't have to be like that and the Birmingham Repertory Theatre has just been given a special award for putting on theatre that families with children of all ages can enjoy and learn from.
The Family Friendly Kitemark was awarded to the theatre by Birmingham City Council in recognition of The REP's programme of work for young people and the next few months offer a host of plays that families can enjoy together.
For older children the theatre is currently staging an epic production of Philip Pullman's award-winning trilogy, His Dark Materials. Featuring all sorts of fantastical creatures, puppets and an acting company of 25, plus some 100 costumes, this show promises to be a mighty theatrical treat. The show is in two parts which can be enjoyed separately or in one day and runs throughout the Easter holidays until April 18.
The forthcoming programme also features plenty of plays for younger children. In May there is a delightful new play curiously entitled Looking For Yoghurt. Yoghurt is a cat who has disappeared into a dangerous building site, and whilst the cat never appears in the play, the story follows three young children as they set off on an adventure to rescue it. The play is a unique collaboration between The REP and theatres in Japan and Korea and gives a brilliant and often funny insight into the imaginations and wisdom of children. Suited to those aged 6+ the play opens from 15 – 30 May with performances taking place at 10.30am, 1.30pm and 7pm on different days.
The REP also runs a selection of shows for younger children age 3+. The First Stages series are the ideal way to introduce your little ones to the delights of theatre. The shows run once a month on a Saturday, and prior to the morning performance there's a free storytelling session in the foyer of the theatre. Look out for old favourites such as Goldilocks and How Many Bears?, on July 4 and The Boy Who Cried Wolf on June 6.
If your kids love Roald Dahl, then The BFG is a must for them. The stage version of this whizzcracking story, which is at The REP from 23 to 27 June, promises to mix up heart-pounding adventures with life-long friendships, jumbly words and even some whizzpopping in front of the Queen! And whilst The BFG will thrill the kids it certainly won't bore the adults either!
For further details on The REP's programme for families visit birmingham-rep.co.uk or call 0121 236 4455
