Charlotte's Web set for Polka return (From Your Local Guardian)

Charlotte's Web set for return to Polka Theatre, Wimbledon

9:47am Tuesday 25th October 2011 in Theatre

The return of Charlotte’s Web to Wimbledon’s Polka Theatre this Christmas will offer a welcome solace from the screams and jeers of festive pantomime.

The much-loved children’s story by American author EB White is also celebrating its 60th birthday next year and the classic tale has been adapted by Joseph Robinette for children aged five to 11.

Robinette’s work was loved by EB White himself and has delighted audiences at Polka for two Christmases in the theatre’s history.

For the second time, Polka’s associate director, Roman Stefanski, will direct the show, based on the story of an earnest pig named Wilbur and his highly intelligent friend, Charlotte the spider.

The children’s theatre in Wimbledon Broadway often features classic tales over the Christmas period, with recent productions including Michael Rosen’s Pinochhio and Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach.

Stephen Midlane, executive director of the Polka Theatre since it was founded in 1979, says: “Children are hungry to know more – about themselves and the world around them.

“Theatre is an exciting, magical way of asking questions that resonate for children.

“Polka approaches its young audiences with warmth and respect and aims to instil in them a sense of discovery and fun.

“So long as it continues to engage with and reflect what is important in children’s lives and succeeds in helping them explore the world and its stories in imaginative and unexpected ways, it should continue for quite a few more generations.”

Charlotte’s Web, Polka Theatre, 240 the Broadway, Wimbledon; December 11 to February 4. £10 – £16, concs £10. Call 020 8543 4888 or visit polkatheatre.com.

---

Got a story for us? Call 020 8722 6333, tweet @WimbledonNews or email: newsdesk@wimbledonguardian.co.uk.