When you’re a new parent, the thought of taking your infant to watch live theatre seems laughable.
Imagine trying to breastfeed in the back row while the critic to your left shuffles uncomfortably in his seat. Then baby starts wailing during the actor’s monologue: cue dramatic pause, swerving heads and angry stares.
Macbeth with mcbairn? I don’t think so.
But if you’re a fan of the stage (or just a bit of a luvvie), having a baby doesn’t mean you’re doomed to wait years before the thrill of watching another curtain go up. There are many types of shows around town that allow and even encourage younger viewers.
Oily Cart is one company that dedicates itself to bringing babes into theatres with its interactive productions specially for under fives.
Past Oily Cart shows have seen young ‘uns jamming with hip hop DJs, popping balloon flowers and baking bread with the cast.
This week at TARA Arts Studio in Earlsfield, Oily Cart presents Drum, a multi-sensory theatre piece made for kids aged 6 months to 2 years. The production uses shadow play and the gentle rhythms of a big bass drum to snare little ones and parents alike.
Drum goes on tour at children’s centres, nurseries and playgroups in Greater London from February 22 until March 12.
Catch it first at TARA Arts Studio from Tuesday Feb 9 to Saturday Feb 13 at 10.30 am.
