I love being out and about with the boys and I’m always on the lookout for fun but affordable things to do with them. We recently went to the Djanogly Theatre at Lakeside Arts which is part of the University of Nottingham for the first time and was to see The Singing Mermaid. You might have heard of the kid’s book written by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, well Watershed productions have turned the much-loved book into a puppetry show – and it was great!
Lakeside Arts Centre has free very nearby parking and also has a café area to grab a drink and a snack before or after the show. There are also toilets and baby-changing facilities. It’s a lovely space and just outside is a large play area and you’re also close to the river. So there are lots to do before and after your visit.
The Singing Mermaid production was based on a circus and they really made the theatre look like a big top. Lots of colourful lights and a brightly decorated stage meant that Cameo and Marlo were captivated from the moment they walked in. We were on the upper level, which was slightly restricted because of the safety railings for Marlo who has just turned 4 but he sat on my lap and could see fine. Cameo who is 5 could see with no issues. The show was interactive and got everyone involved no matter if you were at the front or at the back.
It was 60 minutes long but went by so quickly, the boys didn’t even ask to go home! It’s suitable for ages 3+ and there’s a BSL show on the 17th of December. Marlo remembers having this book at pre-school so it was lovely that it had been brought to life in such a fun way for him.
The puppetry was brilliant, really imaginative and at times you forgot that you watching puppets! Plus you’ll find yourself singing and dancing along to the songs. The show is on until the end of December so do make sure you grab yourself a ticket.
We’ll be heading back to Djanogly Theatre really soon, I’m going to make sure we’re signed up for notifications of all the shows. It wasn’t a huge theatre so great for little ones. It was a really lovely way to spend a morning in Nottingham with the kids.
Get tickets here
Lakeside Arts, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD
