From deep-sea adventures and quests to deep, dark dungeons, to puppetry, live music and more, there’s plenty to keep children of all ages and their families entertained this February half term as a variety of fantastic theatre takes to stages across Dorset as part of the programme by Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity.
‘The Zoo That Comes to You’ follows the efforts of two wildlife enthusiasts who provide respite, care or a temporary home to those in need. They now have a sanctuary full of animals, however, no-one has come to visit their zoo. So everybody – animals and humans alike – have decided it is time to get out, see the world, and bring the zoo, to you! Come and meet this eclectic group of charming yet cheeky animals, as they discuss their life experiences and the challenges they face. These chatty animals have a lot of stories to tell and want to inspire people of all ages to take action, because they know small actions can make a big difference in the world.
Featuring puppetry, live music and playful characters, Scarlet Oak Theatre welcomes families of children aged 5+ to join the conversation about animal conservation at Sixpenny Handley Village Hall (01725 552812) at 10:30am on Monday 12 Feb, and at Blandford Royal British Legion (01258 480698) at 10:30am on Tuesday 13 Feb. After both performances, Scarlet Oak are offering families the chance to take part in an introduction to puppetry workshop – places are limited, and so booking is essential.
Head to the bottom of the sea for a dramatic aquatic adventure with Coppice Theatre in ‘Science Adventures: Deep Sea’! Join Professor Flotsam and Dr Wright in their brand-new submarine as they look for the strangest creatures in the deep, hear some of their favourite sea stories and learn about looking after the oceans! Using puppetry, animation, original stories and some audience participation, Science Adventures Deep Sea is fantastical show exploring the importance of protecting our coast and oceans through puppetry, animation and storytelling, whilst fostering a love of science and literature.
Take part in the adventure at Milborne St Andrew Village Hall (01258 839060) at 10:30am on Wednesday 14 February, and at Alderholt Village Hall (01425 652729) at 10:30am on Thursday 15 February. After the show, children can take part in a creative puppet-making workshop and bring to life their very own deep-sea creature, inspired by the show and made from recycled materials!
Finally, award-winning Theatre Fideri Fidera invite children aged 3+and their families to join plucky Will Tell as she sets off on a chivalric quest to rescue her legendary dad Wilhelm from the Big Bad Baron’s deepest darkest dungeon. Inspired by the adventures of Robin Hood, Will knows all about standing up to tyrants, but is clueless when the Baron’s daughter Edel falls madly in love with her and wants to be rescued too… Will Tell & The Big Bad Baron is an action-packed comic adventure which promises capers around castles, medieval Strictly Come Dancing and a jaw-dropping joust on life-size horse puppets! Touring to Sturminster Marshall Community Hall
To find out more and book tickets for these fantastic half term events, visit www.artsreach.co.uk where full details and individual box office information can be found.
