With chat that the new musical Wonder. land, (music) Damon Albarn and (lyrics) Moira Buffini’s is moving to The National Theatre from its run in Manchester this November, under Direction from the Theatres new Director Rufus Norris, I thought it would be worth sharing the family events that we can all join in with, and all for pretty much a bargain price, if not totally free.
If you haven’t had time to read up about Wonder.land it is inspired by Lewis Carroll’s iconic Alice in Wonderland, catch up with a review from my friends at Culture Whisper here (fyi, it’s for kids aged 10+).
Enjoy RiverStage Outdoor events outside the Theatre
Running until 30th August, from Friday afternoons over each weekend you can enjoy street theatre, live music, dance and guest DJs. On Saturdays there will be live music in the afternoons until late and on Sundays expect family fun with dazzling circus, vibrant dance and intriguing installations. Check the link above for the listings for the last weekends of the Summer.
Take a Family Tour and Explore the backstage life of the National Theatre.
The Theatre is a working building, producing over 20 new productions every year. Preparation for the shows, including rehearsals, prop and costume-making all happen on site. No two tours are ever the same, so come and see what’s happening behind the scenes. You can book via email tours@nationaltheatre.org.uk. Individuals: £9 (Concessions £8), Entry Pass Members: £5 (not available to book online). Groups of 8 or more: £8 each.
Enjoy Family Days Throughout the Year
During the Family days you can learn and try out various theatre skills. Try designing costumes, learning how to perform realistic stage fighting, compose some score for an opening act, and meet some of the teams who work behind the scenes and make this Theatre one of the best in the UK. Details of family workshops on The Comedy of Errors will be announced at the end of August. Check on the link above for the different events attached to various productions coming up in the coming schedule.
Peek into new Productions from The Sherling High-Level Walkway
See new productions being created before they reach the stage. The Sherling High-Level Walkway offers visitors views into the busy backstage production workshops for set construction and assembly, scenic painting and prop-making. These sessions are free and open daily (Mon – Sat) 9.30am – 7.30pm and on Sunday 9, 23 and 30 August, 12-6pm. The access to the Sherling High-Level Walkway is from the Gallery Level in the Dorfman Theatre Foyer.
Explore the National Theatre Archive from the comfort of the Lyttelton sofas.
The Lyttelton Lounge is a place to explore the National Theatre’s past and present. Browse exclusive digital content from our Archive, including interviews, prompt scripts and early recordings. It is free, and open all day, every day. Located on Lyttelton Level 1, accessed from the main foyer.
Creative Bus Stop 