The Lyric Hammersmith will stage an unusual new family show as part of its spring season. Hang On, which plays from 15 to 25 April, is a circus-inspired aerial show in which daring performers create a giant human mobile high above the theatre’s main stage.
Created by Theatre-Rites, the acclaimed company behind last year’s family dance show Mischief at the Peacock theatre, Hang On is billed as a perilous and playful contemporary circus show which explores balance, boundaries, fear and bravery.
Director Sue Buckmaster has gathered an international ensemble that includes an Italian juggler and a Japanese Taiko drummer. Japanese percussionist Nao Masuda also joins the line-up.
Hang On is a highlight of the spring season at the Lyric Hammersmith, which, as usual, includes a programme of shows for children in the Lyric Studio. Travelling Light’s production of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling visits the studio during spring half term (16 to 21 February); Lyngo’s brand new show What A Wonderful World! occupies the Easter slot (6 to 11 April); and Gomito theatre company returns to the Lyric Hammersmith with its magical story Sun Dragon during the summer half term (26 to 30 May).
In addition, the theatre stages weekly Saturday shows for young children aged three months to six years in the Studio. The full programme can be seen at www.lyric.co.uk.
The Lyric Hammersmith’s programming for children and families culminates with its annual free summer party. This year’s event, entitled A Blooming Marvellous Summer Party, will be held on 11 July and features a plethora of flower-themed performances, activities and events. John Nicholson from Peepolykus, the acclaimed theatre company behind West End show The Hound Of The Baskervilles, leads the creative team.
CB