Polka Theatre

Polka is a pioneering national theatre for children based in Wimbledon, South West London. The first UK venue to be created exclusively for young audiences, we celebrated our 40th anniversary in 2019. We are one of just a handful of dedicated children’s venues in the UK. Presenting a year-round programme of new work made at Polka, visiting shows, and Creative Learning activities for 0-12 year olds, we continue to pioneer developments in children’s theatre, nurture artistic talent in the sector, and maintain an international reputation while serving local communities. Polka is a charity and Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation. Our mission is to empower children to navigate their world through inspirational theatre and creative experiences. Over 100,000 people visit us each year and a further 18,000+ take part in creative learning and community activities. We involve children at every stage of the creative process and lead the way in Early Years theatre for under 6s together with our academic collaborators and the EU-funded small size network. Inclusivity is and always has been an integral part of the company’s offer. In 2007, Polka pioneered relaxed performances for children on the autistic spectrum, a model which continues to be replicated across the cultural sector. We run a free ticketing scheme, enabling children from deprived areas to experience live theatre for the first time, and a range of initiatives that provide opportunities for children with particular access needs or who live in challenging circumstances to participate in our activities. We offer opportunities for all children and families regardless of age, ability, culture or background, to engage in theatre. This is an exciting time to be joining Polka. Since opening our Wimbledon home in 1979, over 3.5 million children, parents, teachers and carers have been through our doors and we now have an opportunity to redevelop and reimagine Polka for future generations. Our redeveloped venue will open to the public in summer 2021. For more information about Polka Theatre and our work, please visit www.polkatheatre.com Polka is funded by Arts Council England, London, registered charity number 256979.