Polka Theatre has unveiled a vibrant and inclusive programme for Summer 2025, promising fun for all the family with a trio of exciting productions and a host of creative workshops.
Leading the season is the world premiere of The Boy With Wings, adapted by Arvind Ethan David from Sir Lenny Henry’s debut children’s book. This action-packed adventure, co-produced with Birmingham Rep and directed by Daniel Bailey, runs in the Main Theatre from 21 June to 16 August and is recommended for ages 7–12.
Wings? Check. A super-cool, super-secret past? Check. An impossible mission to save the entire galaxy. Check.
When Tunde sprouts wings and discovers his father is a ferocious alien warrior, he becomes the galaxy’s last hope. With his loyal friends by his side, Tunde must embrace his destiny—no pressure!
Also taking flight this summer is I Want My Hat Back Trilogy, based on Jon Klassen’s beloved books. This Little Angel Theatre production, featuring Ian Nicholson and Sam Wilde’s signature cardboard designs, plays in the Adventure Theatre from 9 July to 10 August and is perfect for ages 3–8.
A bear has lost his hat. What if he never sees it again? WAIT! He has seen his hat.
A fish has stolen a hat. And he’ll probably get away with it. Probably.
Two turtles have found a hat. The hat looks good on both of them. But there are two turtles. And there is only one hat.
For the youngest audiences, Counting Sheeps offers a sensory, musical journey for 0–3-year-olds and their grown-ups. Produced by Herd Theatre, this gentle and imaginative show runs from 13 to 24 August in the Adventure Theatre.
Two sheep think they know everything about sleep.
They’re experts in the field.
But tonight they’re wide awake.
Polka’s summer also features a wide range of themed workshops from 23 July to 15 August. Highlights include interactive storytelling in Animal Adventures, puppet play in Summertime Stories in the Garden, and a From Sketch to Screen Masterclass inspired by The Boy With Wings.
The popular Polka Youth Theatre Summer School returns from 28 July to 1 August for ages 8–12, while younger children can enjoy the Polka Puppet Summer School from 12 to 14 August.
Polka’s monthly Saturday Club continues with creative sessions on 7 June and 5 July, offering activities like Saturday Stretch and Summer Style Headdress making.
Polka’s Artistic Director, Helen Matravers, said:
“I am incredibly proud that Polka is delivering for such a wide and diverse community of audiences with our programme of theatre and workshops. Summer at Polka is a vibrant and inspiring hub of creative activity; a place all children can explore and create memories, and this feels more of a vital offer than ever. It is a constant drive with our work to remove barriers so that every child can access our programmes. We continue to provide £10 tickets for all Main Theatre shows, thousands of free tickets through our Curtain Up! and Polka Invites programmes, plus free play spaces for all to enjoy.
I’m so excited to see our stages come to life with two titans of titles from the children’s literary world. Lenny Henry’s first ever children’s book premieres in our Main Theatre, with Arvind Ethan David and Daniel Bailey leading an exceptional creative team through an adaptation of action-adventure for slightly older children. They’re bringing together a wonderfully physical, fast paced and rap-battle filled production. It’s a book that directly addresses the importance of identity, self-discovery, friendship, and learning to forgive, which makes it the perfect story to stage for children.
Whilst over in our Adventure Theatre, Ian Nicholson, Sam Wilde and Little Angel’s gorgeous interpretation of John Klassen’s I Want My Hat Back Trilogy takes centre stage. Already a firm family favourite, the puppetry and playful storytelling make this the perfect Summer outing, full of giggles, inventive design and magical moments. Then prepare to fall in love with two sheep who have forgotten how to fall asleep. The Herd have woven beautiful music, interactive play and cosy storytelling into this perfect introduction to theatre for very small ones and I’m delighted Polka are staging its first London outing.
And our packed programme of brilliant holiday workshops means that there is something to entertain and inspire for children of all ages, across the whole (hopefully!) sunny period!”
Listings and ticket information can be found here.