Polka Theatre has announced casting for its two festive productions, Peter Pan and Antarctica, alongside a programme of family events and workshops running throughout the Christmas season.
The Wimbledon venue’s Y C Chan Theatre will be transformed into Neverland for Peter Pan, which runs from 14 November 2026 to 24 January 2027.
Based on the classic story by J.M. Barrie, the production has been adapted for the stage by Conrad Murray, who also co-directs alongside Ria Parry. The musical features original songs and soundscapes performed live and entirely a cappella by a company of vocalists, beatboxers and rappers.
The cast includes Celeste Denyer as Pan, Conrad Murray as Hook, Aziza Brown as Tink, Khai Shaw as Smee and The Lost Boys, Alex Hackett AKA ABH as The Lost Boys, and Nadine Rose Johnson as Wendy.
The production follows Peter and Wendy on an adventure through Neverland alongside Tink and the Lost Boys as they attempt to stop Captain Hook from taking control of the magical island.
Helen Matravers, Artistic Director and Joint Chief Executive of Polka Theatre, said: “I am so proud of this festive line-up at Polka, working with some of the most talented artists, beatboxers, designers and makers from across the UK. It is so hard to stand out amongst the theatre crowd over the festive period with an offer that feels both magical and which pushes creative boundaries, but Peter Pan does just that. With Ria Parry and Conrad Murray co-directing, we are creating a Neverland like no other, and I know that children are going to love this new take on such a classic tale. It has every familiar beat of J.M. Barrie’s story, but takes a bold and wonderful leap into a style of storytelling which will capture the biggest imaginations of the youngest audiences. I know this show will open doors to children who have previously thought theatre isn’t a world for them, and that’s precisely why work like this needs to take centre stage. Inspiring children with theatre’s empowering live world at this young age feels more vital to the industry than ever before”.
The creative team for Peter Pan includes set and costume designer Liam Bunster, lighting designer Simisola Majekodunmi and choreographer and fight director Stephan Boyce.
Meanwhile, Polka’s Adventure Theatre will host Antarctica from 27 November 2026 to 17 January 2027.
Created by Olivier Award-winning company Little Bulb and originally produced with Bristol Old Vic, the show is recommended for ages three to seven and promises an adventure filled with clowning, puppetry and snowy surprises.
The cast features Grace Venus, Joe Boylan and Judy Barrington-Smuts.
Written and devised by Little Bulb, the production is directed by Alexander Scott with set and costume design by Verity Sadler.
Alongside the productions, Polka will present a range of festive family activities, including Winter Wonderland Adventure, Festive Family Sing-Along!, Musical Theatre Remixed and MiniJam House Party.
Matravers added: “Polka is so much more than just a theatre, at Christmas time especially. Our unique building, family workshops and free open invitation to all children make us one of the most magical places to spend a day and see a brilliant show. We’re a warm space and safe haven for families, ensuring our theatre has the widest, most open, most accessible and welcoming doors possible. The entertaining magic made on the stages is the cherry on top.”
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
