The Polka Theatre

The Polka Theatre first opened in 1979 and is one of a few theatres that specialises in producing theatre for young audiences. They want to stir the emotions of their audiences and they want to inspire people. Their two theatres are designed for children so that their first experiences of theatre is fun and inviting.

The Polka Theatre first started as a touring company in 1967.

Touring had it's restrictions and in 1976 the company found the Holy Trinity Halls in Wimbledon  and in 1979, they were able to secure the Halls as a permanent home for children's theatre. 

The Polka isn't just a theatre. In the foyer there are toys for children to play with and a reading corner to keep children's imaginations flowing. At the Polka Theatre the experience is fun enjoyable and interactive. They create shows that are enjoyable for all the family. 

The ticket prices are affordable for a family. Shows are aimed for children aged between 0 - 13. Schools are also invited to the theatre and teachers are able to book workshops about the show and after-show talks. The company also run summer schemes, where children are able to expand their performance skills, by being involved in storytelling and puppetry workshops.
 

Staff:

Artistic Director: Jonathan Lloyd

Executive Director: Stephen Midlane

Theatre Director: Lucy Kerbel

Management Consultant: Sarah King

The company's new production is 'Charlie and Lola's Extremely New Play'. This shows that the theatre bring children's books to life and having picked stories that children love, I'm sure they'll have sold out performances. The Polka Theatre also cater for people with disabilities. They have special signed performances for shows, this shows inclusion and that they don't discriminate.