Opinion with Samantha Lane

At Little Angel Theatre, we believe passionately in sharing inspirational stories, whether existing stories, book adaptations or something totally new. Indeed, the heartbeat of theatre lies in its ability to reflect an ever-changing society, and to captivate audiences across generations. We do this with a varied exciting programme of work. Our spring/summer season in 2024, for example, is made up of an existing book adaptation, The Everywhere Bear, alongside 4 brand new pieces – Medusa's First Kiss (a coming of age story about acceptance and fitting in); Persephone – a Tale of the Seasons (a show for babies and toddlers that takes them on a sensory journey through the cyclical changes in nature); Prince Charming (a show about a prince, who is very anxious and struggles to get out of bed) and The Curious Rat (a story about a lonely city rat who, inspired by some pigeons, goes on an adventure). The shows cover a wide age range, bringing joy and inspiration to all children.

In a world inundated with digital distractions, theatre faces the challenge of remaining relevant, and maintaining its appeal, to children and young people. New stories are therefore important as they offer a fresh narrative landscape, resonating with contemporary themes that mirror lived experiences, ultimately enabling young audiences to see themselves; and fostering a sense of connection and relevance. Theatre's magic lies in its ability to evoke empathy and provoke thought. New stories, with their contemporary contexts, provide a vehicle for exploring complex issues and challenging societal norms. This not only stimulates intellectual engagement but also encourages critical thinking – an important life-long skill.

These tales are also important as they can champion inclusivity and representation. Through our varied season, we hope to embrace narratives that reflect the richness of society, presenting a range of voices, backgrounds and identities, providing something for everyone. Indeed, theatre becomes a space where ideas are tested, norms are questioned, and diverse viewpoints are presented, fostering a culture of open-mindedness. Moreover, the presentation of new stories is crucial for the evolution of theatrical craft. This season we are producing our first punk rock musical, we have a show featuring puppetry and animated projection, another show uses humour and song to tackle a serious mental health concern, and another is a multi-sensory, interactive experience. All of the artists involved in the season have been challenged to explore innovative storytelling techniques, pushing the boundaries of what theatre can achieve. This experimentation not only keeps the art form dynamic but also ensures its resilience in the face of changing tastes and preferences.

The significance of new stories in theatre for young audiences is not a choice; it is a necessity for its survival and continued relevance.