Kids Theatre Show: Up & Down by Ga Ga Theatre

We love going out, especially to the theatre. Last weekend, we had the opportunity to see Up & Down at Hackney Picturehouse, and the whole family enjoyed the show.

Up & Down brings together live theatre and especially composed music, with the cinema screen which is used to animate illustrations taken from the book. It brings to life the beautiful story of the penguin who wanted to fly and the boy that tried to help him, in a very absorbing and interesting way.

Ga Ga Theatre, a new theatre company for children, launched its first ever production, an adaptation of Up & Down by award-winning children’s author Oliver Jeffers, running for a limited period from 11th October – 3rd November.

Ga Ga Theatre will be touring the production to six London Picturehouse cinema venues (Brixton, Clapham, Greenwich, Hackney, Notting Hill and Stratford East) with the aim of making children’s theatre accessible on a local basis and creating a positive, stress free experience for parents and carers.

The new production is being adapted and directed by the award-winning Matt Aston and scored by highly acclaimed composer Julian Butler, bringing to life the magical story of a penguin who dreams of flying and the boy who tries to help him.

Ignoring the boy’s advice that it is impossible, the penguin leaves his friend to go searching for a chance to get his feet off the ground and, when the penguin needs him most, the boy is there to catch him. Up & Down is a funny yet touching story about the importance of friendship and reaching for one’s dreams, which speaks to all ages.

The production is suitable for babies and children up to 7 years, but everyone is welcome. The intention is to provide an enriching, inspiring and fun experience, where parents can enjoy the show themselves and relax knowing their children are being stimulated and entertained.

I must say the whole family had a great time, Up & Down was very enjoyable and we all joined in. Little man particularly liked when a big flag was on top of the audience. The show lasts 45 minutes with no intervals, so it is perfect for little ones.