Polka Theatre reveals cast and creatives for Tidy stage show

Polka Theatre has announce the full casting and creative team for the world premiere of Tidy.

The show, a collaboration between Polka Theatre and Theatr Iolo, is set to open at the Polka Theatre from 10 February to 24 March 2024.

Tidy, adapted from the beloved children’s book by Emily Gravett, tells the story of Pete the badger, who loves to keep everything neat and tidy. The play is a humorous yet cautionary tale about environmental stewardship, featuring exquisite puppets, original music, and a dash of silliness. It is recommended for children aged 3 to 7 years.

Pete the badger likes everything to be neat and tidy: the flowers, the leaves, even the other animals. But, when autumn comes, he gets a little bit carried away with cleaning up the forest and accidently destroys his own home!

Polka Theatre’s Artistic Director and Joint Chief Executive Helen Matravers said: “I cannot wait to share the magic and hilarity of Pete the Badger’s adventure with Polka audiences. There is something in this story for every 3-7 year old to enjoy – from wonderful puppetry, to incredibly catchy songs and a big hug for our precious planet – the creative team are bringing Emily Gravett’s story to life with exceptional attention to detail and it’s fantastic that Polka and Theatr Iolo are able to team up to bring it to our main stage.”

Robert Penny, known for his performances in “The Smeds and the Smoos” and “The Cat in the Hat,” will return to Polka to portray ‘Pete the Badger.’ Clare Pointing, a seasoned writer, actor, and puppeteer with credits in “WOW! Said the Owl” and “The Singing Mermaid,” will play ‘Rabbit.’ Jack Benjamin, with notable roles in “To Kill A Mockingbird” and “Kiss Me, Kate,” will take on the role of ‘Fox.’

The creative team includes Theatr Iolo Artistic Director Lee Lyford, composer and lyricist Lucy Rivers, and designer Rachel Canning. The production is directed by Lyford, with Canning responsible for set, costume, and puppet design. The team also features Yvonne Gilbert for sound design and Jane Lalljee handling lighting.

Lee Lyford added: “It’s a privilege to collaborate with Polka Theatre on this project. Tidy combines humor, playfulness, and an essential environmental message. We aim to ignite young imaginations while encouraging them to think about caring for our world.”

For more information and tickets, visit polkatheatre.com