Theatre Hullabaloo has announced full programme details of their outdoor summer extravaganza, Hullabaloo in the Park, taking place from Wednesday, July 26 to Sunday, July 30 2023 in South Park, Darlington.
Theatre Hullabloo’s brings a unique programme of over 170 interactive performances, music activities, storytelling experiences, and creative play opportunities to the region.
Through free, ticketed, and drop-in events and experiences, thousands of children and their grown-ups will be able to enjoy five days of creative activities.
South Park will transform into an enchanting realm with nine themed performance spaces named after creepy crawlies.
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This includes the Dragonfly stage for storytelling, Firefly craft area for hands-on creativity, and the Ladybird stage perfect for a family picnic.
Ben Dickenson, chief executive of Theatre Hullabaloo said: “After a pilot in 2021, we are immensely proud to bring Hullabaloo in the Park back to Darlington this summer.
“Last time people told us the festival was a joyful antidote to the Covid pandemic. In the wake of cost-of-living crisis, it feels more important than ever to give children and families the chances to enjoy themselves.
“So, in 2023 we have more than doubled the size of our offer, producing a festival packed with affordable, inclusive, fun and creative activities.
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“We believe creative experiences improve children’s wellbeing, support families to grow together, and bring new life to public spaces.
“We are also passionate about making sure everyone can enjoy the best theatre, music, storytelling, giant games, circus, interactive art, messy play, food…or stretch out for a rest in a beautiful family picnic area.
“This festival does just that. We can’t wait to welcome as many as possible to South Park in July to enjoy the brilliant programme the team has put together.
“Tickets for our paid for activities went on sale this week and over 20 per cent were sold on the first day with some already close to being sold out - but there is also a huge amount of free and drop in fun to be had, meaning everyone can enjoy Hullabaloo in the Park in a way that works for them.
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“We're grateful for the continued support of Darlington Borough Council, Tees Valley Combined Authority and Darlington Building Society, who share our commitment to enriching our town with arts and culture.”
Hullabaloo in The Park will feature a mix of local and national artists and companies delivering live theatre performances, acrobatic circus shows, messy play, imaginative adventures and much more.
Highlights of the programme include three brand new experiences that have been commissioned especially for the event as part of Theatre Hullabaloo’s Little Wonder’s programme.
“Elswyth’s Shed,” where children can explore a magical shed and help Elswyth Eri in her quest to find the elusive, mythical Perilieu.
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“Where Are You Perilieu?” a ticketed performance reveals the secret life of Elswyth and her adventurous search and “Giant’s Picnic” by artist Lynda Nelson, a free, drop-in play activity where children can engage with oversized picnic items.
Interactive theatre performances for all ages include “Look Mum, No Hands!” This captivating show from London based acrobatic theatre company Mimbre, is about two friends growing up and pushing boundaries, showcasing the unique perspective of a wheelchair user.
Children and their families also have the opportunity to try out a variety of crafts throughout the week and create props and accessories to bring to the festival’s finale event.
The free and un-ticketed Beastie Boogie from The Baghdaddies on Sunday, July 30, will be an exhilarating mix of Eastern European melodies, ska, jazz, and Indian influences, delivered with sizzling brass and theatrical humour.
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The full programme for Hullabaloo in the Park is available online. Access to the festival is free, as are more than half of the events.
Ticketed events and experiences cost an affordable price of around £5 and available to book now. https://www.theatrehullabaloo.org.uk/hullabaloo-in-the-park/
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