We recently got to go to the brilliant Little Angel Theatre Company in Islington to see 'Wow Said the Owl', a puppetry theatre production of Tim Hopwood's children's book. We were given gift vouchers as a Christmas present last year and have been waiting patiently for a production that was suitable for a 2 year old. Most performances seem to be for +4yr olds but this one is for 2 - 5 year olds and is only 30 minutes long, so not too long to sit with an active toddler.
This book has been one of Finn's favourites for a while and is all about a curious owl who stays awake all day and gets to see all the colours that the day brings. The theme is colour and the very clever and simple stage set comes to life showing the audience all the colours that the owl sees along with a very cute owl puppet that engages with the young audience, frequently 'flying' into it. Live music and story telling bring the show to life and Finn was definitely mesmerised, with the frequent 'WOW' encouraged to be shouted from the audience.
Quite a few performances are sold out now (it really is a tiny audience) but if you can try and take your little one to this show it's a great festive activity going to the theatre and if you live in London I highly recommend it. Make sure you get there early to bag a good seat towards the front.
The Little Angel Theatre was founded by John Wright in 1961 in a derelict temperance hall in Islington. Every type of puppet is used, and themes, styles and stories are drawn from a wide range of cultural traditions. The company tours throughout the UK and abroad and The Little Angel also has an extensive Education Programme, which works with schools and youth groups. On Saturdays, there is a Puppet Club and family fun days where children can make their own puppets and play with them.
Other productions on at the moment are Roald Dahl's The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me (age 4 - 11 but there are some all age performances where 3 yr olds and babies are permitted). This show is longer at 1 1/4 hrs so bear this in mind!
Both Wow Said the Owl and The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me are on until 31st January, tickets start at £10 for an adult and £8 for a child. Vouchers also make a great last minute Christmas gift if you're still shopping!
The Little Angel Theatre
14 Dagmar Passage
Off Cross Street
Islington
N1 2DN
Box office: 020 7226 1787