Little Manfred At The Polka Theatre – Wimbledon!
It’s been many years since we went to the Polka Theatre, more’s the pity but I feel soon I shall have to rectify this. I used to take the big two when they were little all the time, not because Wimbledon was close to where we lived, far from it, but because it was always so absolutely excellent that it was worth the journey across London and venturing south of the river (something I rarely did) for! We saw some absolutely terrific shows there and had many wonderful experiences of immersive theatre, family theatre and simply just being in this gorgeous setting which was friendly, inclusive and always such a wonderful full day out rather than just a trip to the theatre. They have a new venue now and so I really couldn’t tell you what it’s like but it used to be fun with play areas and the most wonderful cafe – all of which are still advertised so I’m sure they are still just as much fun!
I was invited to their half term show this October, Little Manfred, as a guest of the theatre but sadly we can’t make it this time. I wanted, however, to share with you the details as it looks brilliant (as per I imagine if it’s anything like it used to be and by all accounts it’s not actually even better) and this one looks great because it’s aimed at the age 7-12 category, sometimes I feel the middle ones do get a bit left out when it comes to live performance but obviously Polka, the pros, do think of everyone!
Little Manfred is a Michael Morpurgo story adapted for the stage:
It is the summer of 1966. Charley and her little brother Alex are walking their dog Manfred on the beach when they notice two older men staring out to sea. A chance encounter brings them together. Slowly, Charley and Alex learn of their mother’s past, and of the friendships that can be formed in difficult circumstances. In 1945, their farmstead home was a posting for German prisoners of war, and their mother Grace was just a little girl…
Interestingly the cast for this production includes serving and veteran military personnel and their family members working alongside stunning puppetry and original storytelling. Sounds wonderful, sound very Polka, sounds like if you’re close you should definitely be booking! Especially as tickets begin at just £10 per head which is so inclusive isn’t it. I do like it when things don’t cost the earth and everyone has a fair chance of going!
Performances are running from the 22nd of October until the 30th and last 1 hour and 40 minutes (including interval time).
I’ve been having a look at what’s on at Polka and have my eye on so many things but at the forefront is Grandad, Me and Teddy Too which is funning from the 2nd of December until the 29th of January. I think I may take Raffie out of school for the day (they don’t have to legally be there until the term after they turn 5) and the little two and I might have an adventure for a run up to Christmas treat!
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