Children can be easily amused, but some can be a little difficult to get giggling. Luckily, the Brighton Fringe accommodates all ages and has a creative and inspiring array of different children's shows to amuse, inspire and remind you of the youngster that remains in all of us. From puppetry to theatre to storytelling to dancing, Brighton Fringe hosts a collection of shows that both children and adults can venture to and enjoy together. Here are just a few of our top picks.
All the way from China, Jiangsu Puppet Troupe put on an afternoon of puppetry, inspiring its audience from far away cultures with traditional tales. The Classical Culture Company brings China’s top artists and performers to share cultures and art with UK audiences. Make sure to catch them for their one performance of The Puppets of Jiangsu at the Sallis Benney Theatre.
(Sallis Benney Theatre, 27th May, 14:30 - 15:40, Age suitability: 1+)
If you are longing to get back in touch with those classical fairy tale stories then Hansel and Gretel will make your wishes come true. Smikle Dance Project take you on a fantastical journey with a dance interpretation of this Germanic fiction. Touching on sibling friendship, pop up forest creatures and spooky witches, their performance will take you out of Brighton and straight into a fairytale world.
(St Augustines Centre, 26th-27th May, 14:00 - 15:00 and 18:00 - 19:00, Age suitability: 8+)
The Altar Disco isn’t only for 18s and over. Monski Mouse creates a dance floor for parents and under 5s with a collection of funky nursery rhymes and retro hits to get the little ones and adults boogying. Labelled as the “best baby dance party in the city”, Monski Mouse's Baby Disco Dance Hall is a perfect place to take your energetic toddlers to have a giggle and a dance.
(Brighton Spiegeltent, 19th May, 26th May, 2nd June, 11:00 - 12:00, Age suitability: 0-5)
Have you ever thought of designing your own planet? The Incredible Rebel All-Stars’ Let’s Build a Planet is a hot spot for creative ideas for adults, children, earthlings, and extraterrestrials, whoever you are and whichever planet you believe you are from. This show allows you to step into an hour of alternate reality. Whether you are an adult or a child, this interactive show will let your imagination run wild.
(Brighton Spiegeltent: Bosco, 19th May, 26th May, 12:00 - 13:00, Age suitability: 3+)
Storytelling is always a good way to keep children captivated. But imagine being the star of your own story. Mark Locke and Gladrags costume centre bring a box of dressing up and guidance for children to turn into characters and develop their own, interactive story. Storybox Unleashed is a chance for children to take the storytelling reigns and bring it to life.
(St Mary Magdalen School Playground, 30th May, 11:00 - 12:00, 12:30 - 13:30 and 14:00 - 15:00, 31st May 11:00 - 12:00, Age suitability: 3-9)