Get creative this autumn half term with an exciting line-up of shows and workshops at Norwich Theatre. Dance to the beat, dive into fairytales, get hands-on with clay, craft amazing puppets, and laugh out loud with some magical comedy! There’s plenty to enjoy, so book early and make the most of your week off school.
Mon 27 Oct
Kick off the week at the Crafty Café drop-in (all ages, 10am–2pm) at Norwich Theatre Café Royal. Create unique puppets inspired by War Horse in this relaxed, free family session. Perfect with a coffee and cake from our café!
Then hop over to Stage Two for The Three Bears (11.30am & 2.30pm), a playful fairytale remix packed with slapstick fun and heartwarming surprises. This is a joyful story celebrating love, laughter, and families of every kind.
Tue 28 Oct
Discover the secrets of puppetry at the War Horse: Puppetry Workshop (ages 10–15, 11am–12.30pm, Stage Two). Led by War Horse alumnus Lucas Button, this hands-on session explores how the show’s iconic horses are brought to life, ending with a Q&A for budding theatre-makers.
For younger audiences, Storytelling: Pablo Fanque (ages 4–8, 11am or 11.45am, Playhouse Playroom) brings to life the extraordinary true story of the UK’s first Black circus owner. This free, inspiring session for families must be booked in advance.
Wed 29 Oct
Start the day with Sensory Stories for SEND (ages 7–11, 10–11am, Stage Two), led by specialist Natalya Martin-Owen. Designed for children with special educational needs and disabilities, this immersive session uses sensory props and storytelling to spark imagination and play.
Babies and toddlers can join Creative Play (ages 6–18 months, 10.30–11.30am, Stage Two) with dance artist Abby, who’ll lead a joyful hour of rhythm, movement, and discovery for little ones and their grown-ups.
In the afternoon, Family Move & Groove (ages 4–7, 2.30–3.15pm, Stage Two) brings a burst of energy to the stage. Dance artist Rosa gets everyone moving, building confidence and creativity through fun, accessible dance.
Round off the day at Norwich Theatre Playhouse with Pete Firman: Tricks and Giggles (7.30pm) for an hilarious evening of comedy and mind-blowing magic for the whole family.
Thu 30 Oct
Join Family Drama & Play (ages 7–10, 11am–12pm, Stage Two), a laughter-filled hour of drama games and creative activities with Rozzy. This is a perfect way to connect, play, and make memories together as a family.
Fri 31 Oct
Don’t miss Free for Families: Fantastic Pablo Fanque (work in progress) (12–1pm & 3–4pm, Stage Two). Developed at Norwich Theatre, this early showing offers a behind-the-scenes look at a new production celebrating Norwich’s legendary circus star. Perfect for curious young theatre fans. Free but booking required.
Sat 1 Nov
Older children can take flight with New Adventures: Take Flight Dance Workshop (ages 10–17, 10.30–11.30am, Stage Two). Led by New Adventures Regional Dance Ambassador Sophie Utting, participants can learn choreography inspired by Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake and explore their creative movement.
Finally, let imaginations run wild in Claytime (ages 3+, 11–11.55am & 2–2.55pm, Stage Two) – an interactive, hands-on clay adventure where every session creates something new. Squish, sculpt, and giggle your way through this magical, creative experience.
Free for Families & Creative Families is made possible thanks to the support of the Alan Boswell Group Charitable Trust, the Simon Gibson Charitable Trust, The Educational Foundation of Alderman John Norman and The Geoffrey Watling Charity.
For more information or to book, visit norwichtheatre.org or call the Box Office on 01603 630 000
