Birmingham Hippodrome reveals One Tiny Penguin as next in My First Musical series

Birmingham Hippodrome’s New Musical Theatre department has announced its next production.

One Tiny Penguin will play over the festive period. It is the third show in the theatre’s My First Musical series, following last year’s No Such Thing as Wolves and The Jingleclaw.

With music and lyrics by Jordan Li-Smith and book and lyrics by Julie Tsang, the piece will be directed by Laura Ryder. The story follows Lumi, a tiny penguin who is chosen to make the journey from the North Pole to the South Pole to light up the sky. It is created for everyone aged three and over.

The writers said: “We are so thrilled to be bringing One Tiny Penguin to Birmingham Hippodrome and working with their new musical theatre department, who have been champions and supporters of our work. This show is a love letter to those who feel their identity is from more than one place, and we really hope it’ll connect with the children and families of Birmingham and beyond!”

Deirdre O’Halloran, head of new musical theatre at Birmingham Hippodrome, added: “We’re so excited to announce our next musical for young audiences and their families. Jordan Li-Smith and Julie Tsang have written a fun-filled winter adventure story, which will be brought to life by the fantastic Laura Ryder. This is a powerhouse team who are so dedicated to making excellent, entertaining and magical children’s work. We can’t wait for One Tiny Penguin to light up the Patrick Studio stage later this year.”

One Tiny Penguin will play at Birmingham Hippodrome’s Patrick Studio from Saturday 5 December 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027.