As a self confessed theatre buff, I’ve always sought to share my passion with my young children. Given that the infant demographic get largely overlooked (most toddler shows target ages 3+), Talawa and Unicorn Theatre‘s Home Song, for babies 6-18 months, offers a rare opportunity for even the littlest of theatre enthusiasts to get involved. But is it ever too soon to introduce your baby to theatre? I took my youngest along to Home Song to see how baby-friendly the show really is.
Days out with a toddler (or baby) are rarely smooth sailing. But our Home Song experience was one of joy from start to finish – a testament to Talawa’s exceptional care for their eager novice audience. From a waiting area equipped with wipes and soft toys to being carefully escorted to the performance space, this theatre company oozes warmth, nurture and welcome.
The performance space itself is a huge brightly coloured canopied soft space laced with wooden percussion and sensory materials. A massive upgrade to our usual scruffy soft play! Once we’d stowed away our shoes and bags we headed into this intimate and welcoming haven, equipped with a mini suitcase full of sensory treasures and shakers to use during the performance. My toddler loved the responsibility of taking this into the space and waiting for the appropriate cue to open it.
Cassiopeia Berkeley-Agyepong’s show uses rhythm, song, and sensory play to explore themes of home and migration, following a mother and daughter’s journey from Ghana to London. The performance was a gentle, tender and immersive experience, where a cappella music and puppetry created a calming and engaging escape for both parents and babies.
Being able to sit on the floor alongside the performers made for an intimate and non intimidating experience . We were immediately at ease and I loved that babies were encouraged to explore within the reassuring boundaries of the space. There was also freedom to leave the space if needed with little fuss. The additional 20 minutes stay and play also meant a smooth and unhurried transition back to the real world (as well as time for adults to take photos)
This was a wonderful production for many reasons, created with intuitive artistry and executed with real care. Talawa and Unicorn have anticipated the needs of new parents and young babies to create a smooth and seamless experience – a far cry from the rigidity of traditional theatres. I would also add that whilst the show is designed for ages 6-18 months, my two year old really enjoyed it as did a newborn in our audience that day.
We left the show relaxed, inspired and ready for an afternoon nap. If you want to give your child their first taste of theatre – I heartily recommend you start here.
Home Song is showing at Fairfield Halls, Croydon until 12th April 2025 Book Here
