Theatre Porto goes Topsy Turvy in summer festival for families

Theatre Porto is transforming an Ellesmere Port park into a captivating creative wonderland this week.

The theatre company presents Topsy Turvy 2024 at Whitby Park from tomorrow until August 11.

The annual outdoor arts extravaganza boasts an exciting mix of workshops, events and family-friendly performances over the course of a five-day festival.

Many of the events and activities are free while others are ticketed or on a pay-what-you-like basis.

And new for this year is a children’s art exhibition with work from nine local primary schools. You, Me and Everything also features nearly 70 family portraits created by community artist Jake Ryan.

Topsy Turvey 2024 opens tomorrow with a family film club showing a singalong screening of Encanto, an open session from Birkenhead-based performing arts company RAWD offering theatre and dance workshops, and an evening VIP event.

August 8 is a SEND Focus Day with a picnic, performances and workshops, while on August 9 there are performances from the Rubbish Shakespeare Company and Turned on Its Head plus the chance to make your own hobby horse and take part in a showjumping competition.

Saturday is billed as a ‘music and dance extravaganza’ featuring choirs, beatboxing, local bands, dance, DJs and walkabout performances throughout the park.

And on Sunday, there’s a Family Fun Day with an interactive dog show by the Egg People, Fallen Angels open dance workshop, acrobatic performances, circus workshops and a ‘family jam’ music session to close the festival.

Theatre Porto artistic director and chief executive Nina Hajiyainni says: "Topsy Turvy 2024 offers something for children and the child in everyone.

“From relaxed SEND-friendly performances to high-energy music shows, we're particularly excited about the mix of local young talent and professional performances, which embodies our commitment to nurturing artistic expression in our community."

Topsy Turvy 2024 is at Whitby Park in Ellesmere Port from August 7-11. Full programme details and ticket options HERE