Polka is one of the few theatres in the UK dedicated exclusively to children. Based in Wimbledon since 1979, Polka creates world-class theatre to entertain and inspire young audiences. Over 90,000 children visit Polka every year to experience engaging, fun and exciting theatre, often for the first time.
We strive to spark the imagination, stir emotions and fuel a sense of discovery in all children. There’s always space at Polka to play, laugh, discover and create. Our welcoming theatre is home to a friendly café, playground, garden and a fun-filled foyer with toys, books, dressing up and colouring in. It’s a unique, magical place where you can share a special moment with your child. Creative programming keeps Polka’s work fresh and relevant.
Over two spaces, the Adventure Theatre and Main Stage, young audiences can expect new plays, dynamic performers, resonant subjects and inventive adaptations of popular stories. Learning and participation are at the heart of Polka’s work, encouraging children to explore and develop creatively. We offer opportunities for all children, regardless of age, ability, culture or background, to engage in the arts through a regular programme of holiday workshops, term-time groups, after-show events, free storytelling and workshops that take Polka into the community.
Schools visiting the theatre can benefit from online free resource packs and show-related workshops. Polka is first and foremost a local theatre, loved by the people of Wimbledon, South London and the wider community, but enjoys an international reputation, known throughout the world as a pioneer of theatre for children, consistently setting the standard and raising audiences’ expectations.