Polka Theatre Early Years Festival 19th/20th September 2026

Building on the success of previous years, Big Dreams 2026 will once again celebrate the very best in Early Years theatre and creativity. Audiences are invited to enjoy an array of imaginative and playful experiences, including a programme of performances specially created for children aged 0–8 years, alongside interactive installations and opportunities to explore and create together.

Shows on Saturday 19 September will be:

• World Book Day Ambassador, best-selling author and viral social media sensation MC Grammar, bringing high-energy wordplay and music to the stage for 3–7-year-olds;
• The Tale of the Loneliest Whale, a magical deep-sea adventure celebrating friendship, difference and the beauty of being yourself for ages 4–8
• International work Multicolore, a visually rich and playful puppet show exploring friendship and colour for ages 18 months – 6 years.

Across both days of the festival, audiences of all ages will also be able to experience Hopeful Monsters, an all-day free cinema-experience, inviting families to encounter theatre and puppetry in a different way.

Shows on Sunday 20 September will be:

• Family Rave, a joyful daytime dance event for children and grown-ups together for ages 0–4;
• Nick Sharratt’s Once Upon a Drawalong, an interactive live drawing and storytelling event from the beloved illustrator for ages 3-7;
• Hurly Burly’s After Party, for ages 0-2; and Dancing with Colours from Mind The Gap, for ages 18 months – 6 years. Hopeful Monsters will also continue across the day as part of the festival’s free creative activity offer.

Tickets for performances and talks are £13* each, with a multi-buy saving of up to 15% when booking 2 or more events.

Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB