Polka is committed to supporting Artists making Theatre for Young Audiences, exploring exciting ideas and finding new voices for the sector.
Our audiences are children, aged 0-12. We make work that is relevant and relatable to them as they are now.
Come and see a show and find out more about Polka’s work. We welcome a conversation at any stage of your career, in any artistic discipline, and whether you’ve made children’s theatre before or not!
Big Dreams Industry Day
Polka presents an Industry Day in celebration of Early Years Theatre. Join in with panel discussions with industry specialists, Q&As and a first look at brand-new scratch performances from participants of Polka’s Artist Development Programme (Catapult), and networking opportunities with industry peers.
Getting Programmed
If you have a production you would like us to consider for programming, please invite us to see it by emailing Producing@polkatheatre.com.
We are currently programming around12 months in advance and are a small team, so please give plenty of notice where possible.
We will only programme work that we have seen – this can include development phase. Where we are not able to make a sharing in person, a recording is gratefully received.
Programming Policy:
Polka stages work for ages 0-12, so all work must be suitable within this age range.
Our programming priorities include work that:
- feels relevant to children today
- is inspiring, unique and empowering
- has exceptional production values
- puts child audiences at its core.
- celebrates every child, and platforms underrepresented voices.
- is accessible, inclusive and original.
Catapult Artist Development
Polka’s Catapult Programme consists of two strands, First Steps and Next Steps, which are designed to platform underrepresented Artists, bringing new ideas and concepts to life.
Both strands, which support 6 artists/companies overall, include:
- Seed funding
- Free rehearsal space
- Bespoke training days from leading industry professionals
- Free tickets to Polka produced shows
- An industry showcase opportunity
- 12 months of mentoring from the Polka Team
First Steps: For brand new ideas for audiences of 0-6 years
Next Steps: For taking that first draft or second R&D to the next stage for audiences of 0-12 years.
Both programmes are open to Artists at any stage of their career, from any creative discipline. Explore the FAQs here.
2026 applications have now closed. The next window for applications will be Autumn 2027.
Meet our 2026 Artists here.
Generously funded by The Garek Trust.
Polka Playwriting Award
The only playwriting award of its kind. Created to find the most exciting new ideas, voices and exceptional writing for young audiences.
The winning playwright receives:
- A WGGB rate commission and associated royalties
- A staging of their play at Polka Theatre
- Publication of their play with Methuen Drama
Full Award details, including application criteria can be found here.
Applications will re-launch in April 2026.
For info on the 2024 winner, please read the blog here.
Generously funded by The Garek Trust
Award Partner: Methuen Drama
Artist Newsletter
Want to hear all the latest news from Polka? Sign up to our Artist Newsletter today and:
- Hear first about artistic opportunities, including our Playwriting Award, Catapult Programme and Masterclass sessions
- Receive ticket offers for selected shows
- Learn about Polka’s artistic events, including our Creative Coffee Mornings
- Opportunities to feedback on Polka’s work
You can update your mailing list preference by logging in to your account, and selecting “Other Preferences” in settings. Or sign up via the link below.
We are committed to removing barriers to anyone with access needs, this includes all Artists we work with.
If you can’t find what you need or if you have any questions about access across our Artist Development or programming, please email Producing@polkatheatre.com.