The Lyric Hammersmith has announced a whole season of children’s shows, including adaptations of fairytale classics Pinocchio, Peter Pan and Goldilocks And The Three Bears, which will open at the venue this autumn.
Aimed at children aged between two and 11-years-old, the season, entitled Little Lyric, will bring a different tale to the Hammersmith venue every Saturday from 12 September to 7 November, with a week of performances of one tale that’s “just right” over the October half term.
The season kicks off with a retelling of Carlo Collodi’s Pinocchio (12 September), when children aged four to nine-years-old can see the big-hearted tale brought to life with shadows, illusions, music and – no surprises here – puppetry.
Puss In Boots (19 September), which is suitable for ages four to seven, follows with its tale of the footwear-sporting feline who fools the king and the ogre to put his master at the top.
For children aged between two and seven-years-old, the interactive and playful adventure Ruby Flew Too! (3 October) is brought to life with original music, handmade puppets and storytelling.
Ages three to 10-years-old can join an acorn called Arnold for Arnold’s Big Adventure (10 October), a unique interactive show set in a custom-built tent that features puppetry, music and – the bit we’re most intrigued about – a smidgeon of synchronised swimming.
Next up is the classic tale of George and the Dragon, which is told as a flashback by the fire-breathing reptile as he’s accompanied by a very special damsel in distress on a hurdy-gurdy in The Dragon’s Tale (17 October) for ages four to eight.
The following weekend it’s all rollercoaster rides and mind-boggling mysteries in Olive & The Dream Train (24 October) as the nine-year-old title character takes the wheel of her very own dream train in a show for ages five to 11.
Then comes the October half term, when a certain young girl with iconic coloured curls gets into a touch of porridge-related trouble. Suitable for children aged two and older, Goldilocks And The Three Bears (27 October to 31 October) promises “A brilliant mix of mischievous moments” as the furry family returns from a stroll to find Baby Bear’s porridge has vanished completely.
The last Saturday in the Little Lyric season will see the enchanting world of Neverland arrive at the venue. The Boy Who Never Grew Up (7 November), which is suitable for ages four and older, will take young audiences on a special adventure in a show filled with imagination and magic.
The Lyric Hammersmith’s 2015 family offerings will then culminate with the return of the previously announced Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas. The festive favourite once again invites young audiences to join Santa on his busiest day for a Christmas run from 20 November to 24 December.
For full details about the Little Lyric season and to book tickets, visit the venue’s website.