Little Angel Theatre reveals autumn and winter 2026 season

Little Angel Theatre has announced its autumn/winter season, marking 65 years in operation.

The company, which makes theatre for young audiences, has programmed new work and the return of classics.

Inspired by the BAFTA-nominated animated series and based on Axel Scheffler’s picture books, the world premiere of Pip and Posy Live on Stage will play from 19 September to 22 November ahead of a UK tour. Suitable for ages two to five, it is brought to life by Samantha Lane and Barb Jungr. Set, puppets and props are designed by Karl Evans Studio, with lighting by Kate Hounslow.

Revealing the real story of the Pied Piper of Hamelin, in the Little Angel Studios The Pied Piper: A Rat’s Tale will run from 12 September to 7 November. The family show, written by Michael Fowkes and Steve Tiplady and performed by Tiplady, is suitable for everyone over five. It is directed by Sally Todd with set and puppet design by Fowkes and music by Mikey Kirkpatrick with lighting by Kate Hounslow.

Over the festive season, Charlotte Irwin’s Scruff’s Christmas Adventure returns to Little Angel Theatre and will also tour schools and community spaces from 28 November 2026 to 3 January 2027. Performed by Mark Esias, it is directed by Irwin and Alice Bravery with design by Dan Southwell and music and lyrics by Zara Nunn, with lighting by Sherry Coenen.

Meanwhile, The Snowflake, based on Benji Davies’ story, runs in the Studio from 21 November 2026 to 23 January 2027. The Little Angel Theatre, Birmingham Rep and Polka Theatre co-production is directed and adapted by Matt Aston, with set and costumes by Laura McEwen, lighting by Jonathan Chan, and compositions and sound design by Julian Butler. Sam Levy is an associate lighting designer and Katie Haygarth is associate director.

Artistic director Lane and executive director Peta Swindall said: “This season, continuing our 65th anniversary celebrations, is a celebration of stories that bring people together. Alongside brand-new productions, beloved family favourites and exciting collaborations, we’re continuing our commitment to creating ambitious theatre that sparks imagination, nurtures creativity and places puppetry at the heart of unforgettable experiences for children and families. Whether audiences join us in Islington, meet us on tour or discover our work internationally, we hope this season inspires curiosity, laughter and a lifelong love of theatre.”

On the road, a new musical based on Dermot O’Leary’s children’s book, Toto the Ninja Cat and the Great Snake Escape, adapted by Lane and Jungr, begins its nationwide tour this month.

At the Old Town Hall, Little Angel Theatre production The Pixie and the Christmas Pudding runs from 5 to 24 December. Suitable for over fours, the musical by Jungr and Lane, brings a tale from Scandinavian folklore to life with puppetry and original music. It has set and costumes by Mila Sanders, puppets by Lyndie Wright and lighting by Sherry Coenen.

At St Martin’s Theatre, The Smartest Giant in Town, a Fierylight and Little Angel Theatre co-production, runs from 9 December 2026 to 3 January 2027.

As well as theatre, there will be a Q&A panel discussion from the puppetry community on 23 August.