Celebrating Creativity: Polka’s Annual Artists’ Celebration

Last week, we celebrated the power of theatre at our Annual Artists’ Celebration, a night dedicated to honouring the talent and ambition that bring Polka’s stories to life for young audiences.

Each year, we raise a glass to our talented artists which includes our directors, producers, lighting and set designers, writers, composers, and actors, all while we thank our incredible supporters who make Polka’s work possible both on and off the stage. And this year was particularly special.

Hosted by our Young Ambassadors, Maya and Fadi, guests enjoyed an insiders’ glimpse into the magic of Polka. In the Y C Chan Play Den, they explored some of Polka’s most iconic props and costumes, including Tunde’s wings from The Boy with Wings and skateboards from Sisters 360.

Guest also saw an exert from Sarah Middleton’s Dweeb-a-Mania, winner of the Polka Playwriting Award and currently playing in our Adventure Theatre, as well as a sneak peek of Maz Evans’ Who Let the Gods Out, coming to Polka next February. After an exciting array of performances and previews, guests enjoyed sparkling drinks and delicious bowl food while connecting with other artists and supporters who are all a part of the Polka family.

In her speech, Artistic Director and Joint CEO, gave an overview of how in the last year we’ve made theatre accessible for young audiences. We are particularly proud that we continue to offer £10 tickets across our Y C Chan Theatre productions, we are a free warm spaces open six days a week, offer adapted performances (this year we offered 89!) and continue, to give away 9,000 free tickets per year to children who otherwise wouldn’t get the opportunity via our flagship programme, Curtain Up!

“A massive thank you to our artists and supporters. Without you our stages and studios are empty, and the most exciting stories stay hidden. Tonight, let’s raise a cheer and celebrate the power of theatre.”

Helen Matravers, Artistic Director and Joint CEO

At Polka, we are proud to create ambitious, high-quality theatre for all children, and tonight was such a special moment to thank the supporters, artists, and patrons who make Polka possible both on and off the stage, as well as in the classroom and community.

If you’d like to help ensure Polka remains a welcoming and inclusive theatre for everyone and join exclusive events like our Annual Artists’ Celebration, find out more here.

“The wonderful Helen Matravers gave the most beautiful speech highlighting the incredible initiatives Polka are undertaking to make as much theatre accessible to as many children as possible. I’m so proud to be collaborating with an organisation with love and inclusivity embedded into the very fabric of its being.”

Maz Evans, Author of Who Let The Gods Out, sharing her experience at The Artists’ Celebration.