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 - 14. 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 and Chief Executive: Peter Glanville
Associate Director: Roman Stefanski

Executive Director: Stephen Midlane

Technical Manager: Chris Randall 

Job Roles:
Artistic Director: An artistic director directs and/or produces the show and has the overall control of the choices for the show. In smaller companies the artistic director might the founder of the theatre. 
Chief Executive: The CEO of a company is the highest-ranking role in the company and is in charge of managing the company. 
Associate Director: The associate director works along side the artistic director to help make decisions for the good of the performance.
Technical Manager: The technical manager is in charge of making decisions for the set and lighting for the show. 

What's On:

The latest production at The Polka Theatre is called Minotaur. It is a collection of Greek myths presented to children between the ages of 8-14 in a modern way. The show opens on the 4th of April and runs until the 24th of May 2014. It was directed by Michael Fentiman who came to Polka fresg from the Royal Shakespeare Company production of Titus Andronicus. The show lasts 75 minutes without an interval. Tickets at £13.50 and £9 for concessions.