Why children’s theatre deserves centre stage

Children’s theatre is too often dismissed as secondary - a colourful distraction in the margins of more ‘serious’ artistic work, but this perspective couldn’t be further from the truth. Creating theatre for young audiences is one of the most demanding, rewarding and impactful forms of storytelling there is. Children are not just spectators, they're the most honest critics a theatremaker will ever meet.

Children don’t pretend. If they’re bored, they’ll say so. Loudly.

If they’re confused, they ask questions in real time.

If they’re not having fun, they want to leave.

All of this means every moment on stage has to matter! Pacing, character, humour and emotional truth all has to land. Children force artists to be sharper, more imaginative and more precise. It encourages us to see the world more playfully and honestly, to soften our edges and be more responsive.

Access is everything.

We all know that children are unpredictable. Some have sensory sensitivities, others need to move around or take breaks. Making a space truly welcoming to families means designing their experience with care, flexibility and empathy. From relaxed performances and accessible venues to affordable ticket prices and thoughtful front-of-house experiences, access isn’t just an add-on, it’s the heart of it all.

It’s not just about the kids, either. When a child comes to the theatre, they’re with siblings, parents, carers, guardians or grandparents. The shared experience matters. Families need to feel like they’re part of it all, whether it’s laughing at the same joke, singing along or actively playing and reimagining a space together. When it’s done right, children’s theatre sparks connection across generations and gives families moments of true connection and escapism. Children’s theatre helps families to raise their young people, and that’s no mean feat.

Story is everything.

Sensory experiences, fun props and fab costumes can be powerful tools, but what truly sticks with a child is the story. Children deserve narratives that reflect their worlds, respect their intelligence and challenge their perspectives. The best children’s theatre isn’t afraid to tackle big emotions, tricky questions or complex relationships. It’s not about talking down, it’s about speaking with clarity and care.

Theatre helps children regulate emotions, understand relationships and process the world around them. It gives them language for big feelings. It lets them see characters make mistakes, take risks and grow. It can spark conversations in the car home or plant the seeds of new hobbies and interests. In a world that can feel overwhelming, theatre offers children (and adults) a space to imagine, reflect and feel seen.

The Herd

One company leading the way is The Herd, based in Hull and acclaimed nationally for their innovative, joyful work with children and families. I’ve had the privilege of producing (and performing in) two of their brilliant shows: Essential Playworks, part play, part urban infrastructure, and Fast Food Megaverse, an immersive audio adventure through multiple dimensions for young people and their families.

The Herd collaborate directly with children to dream up shows, installations and programmes of play that ignite joy, celebrate child creativity and nurture family connection. Their work proves again and again that children’s theatre can be bold, original and deeply moving, designed with children, not just for them. I believe that Sam and Ruby are two of the most exciting theatremakers in the country. From grief, lack of sleep, and being brave to wild adventures, growing up, friendships and more, they’re never afraid to be brave and brilliant in their storytelling. They’re two grown ups who truly care about young people and their experience, and I’m so excited to be working with them to take Essential Playworks directly into communities this summer.

So, what’s the point I’m trying to make here in eight words? Children’s theatre is not secondary. It is essential.

It is craft, care, courage and creativity for the most curious, critical and complex audience there is. Let’s give it the attention, investment and respect it deserves, because when we create great theatre for children, we create better theatre for everyone.