FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Theatre in education (often called TIE) is live theatre created specifically for schools and young audiences. Unlike traditional theatre, TIE is designed with clear learning purposes in mind, for example, exploring PSHE topics, or encouraging discussion and reflection. Performances are interactive and age-appropriate, helping pupils actively engage rather than simply watching.
Research shows that interactive performance can deepen understanding and retention compared to passive learning, which is why Theatre in Educations is widely used in schools.
Our shows combine storytelling with participation and discussion, creating shared learning experiences children can return to in the classroom.

Theatre helps children learn by bringing ideas to life and making learning memorable. Seeing situations played out in front of them helps pupils understand concepts more clearly and encourages discussion.
Research shows that drama-based learning improves critical thinking, empathy, and problem-solving particularly when pupils are actively involved rather than passively watching.
This means learning doesn't stop when the performance ends, it becomes a shared experience children can refer back to in lessons.

Drama is a proven educational tool because it helps children explore ideas, perspectives and emotions in a safe, supportive way. It strengthens communication skills, builds confidence and encourages creativity, all qualities highlighted by Ofsted as important for well-rounded learners.
In Theatre in Education, drama also allows pupils to explore sensitive topics, such as bullying or resilience, through story and character. This makes complex issues feel real and relatable, without being overwhelming or threatening.

Theatre in education can be a powerful way to open up conversations about wellbeing and mental health. Through story, humour and character, pupils can explore themes such as self-esteem, resilience, and emotional literacy in a way that feels safe and engaging.
Research into applied theatre shows that interactive performance helps normalise conversations about feelings and reduces stigma. NHS-commissioned productions such as Captain Wonderweb and the Esteem Machine demonstrate how theatre can support meaningful discussion and introduce practical coping strategies in schools.

For our Touring Pantomimes and Theatre In Education shows, we arrive an hour before the performance start time. This allows us to assess the space, set up our scenery and technical equipment, complete a sound check and get the cast ready.
After the performace, pack down and clearing the hall typically takes around 30-40 minutes.

Our EYFS shows use minimal technical equipment and can be set up more quickly. For these performances, we require access to the space 15 minutes before the show, with a similar amount of time to pack down afterwards.

Our performance lengths vary depending on the show and format:
* 6-man pantomimes last around 90 minutes, including a short interval. Shorter versions can be discussed where needed to fit the school day.
* 3-man pantomimes typically last 50-60 minutes, depending on audience interaction.
* Theatre In Education shows are usually around 45 minutes long.
* EYFS shows last approximately 30 minutes. Search For Santa can also include an optional 30-minute meet and greet with Santa (additional cost applies).

If you are unsure what works best for your timetable, we're always happy to advise.

All of our touring pantomimes are written specifically for primary school audiences. We do not include innuendo, inappropriate language, or adult humour. Instead, our shows are packed with music, comedy and audience interaction that children enjoy, while still being engaging for staff and visitors.

Many schools choose to include nursery and Reception pupils in pantomime performances, and younger children often enjoy the experience when seated appropriately in the hall.

For audiences aged 5 and under, we also offer dedicated EYFS shows. These performances are designed around the EYFS curriculum and are shorter, highly interactive, and designed to suit younger attention spans.

Our Theatre in Education shows are tailored to EYFS, KS1, KS2, or mixed-age audiences. Each show listing includes guidance on the recommended age range.

Our Pantomimes and Theatre in Education shows are designed to work in a hall or similar space. We require a minimum performance area of 4m x 4m and access to two standard plug sockets. A stage is not essential, but we are happy to use one if available.

Our EYFS Shows can be performed in a much smaller space and typically require a minimum area of 2m x 2m. Trip to the Beach is highly interactive and uses the whole room, so children need to be able to move around safely.

Our teams are experienced in working in a wide range of school spaces and will always work with staff to set up in the safest and most practical location for the day.

There is no maximum audience size for our Pantomimes and Theatre in Education shows, provided all pupils can be seated comfortably and safely in the space.

For EYFS performances, we recommend a maximum audience of 35 children. These shows are highly interactive and conversation, and smaller group sizes help ensure every child can fully engage.

Should you book one of our workshops, these have a participation cap of 45 pupils.

Yes. Our shows are enjoyed by a wide range of pupils, including children with additional and special educational needs.

We are experienced in adapting performances to support different needs and have a dedicated SEND Lead who can liaise with schools in advance to ensure performances are as inclusive and accessible as possible.

Our core performing team are all Level 2 trained in Makaton which we incorporate naturally into our shows. We also offer relaxed performances where appropriate to support sensory and access needs.

If you have specific requirements, we encourage you to get in touch, our shows are highly adaptable.

Yes. We regularly adapt our performances to accommodate a range of religious and cultural requirements, including content, language, and presentation.

If you have specific needs, please contact us in advance and we will be happy to discuss how we can tailor the performance for your school.

We take health and safety extremely seriously, both for the children we work with and for our teams.

All staff our DBS checked and carry photographic ID, and our performers are never left alone with children.

Our electrical equipment is PAT tested annually, and we hold full public liability and employers' insurance to the value of £10 million.

Our team members receive regular health and safety training appropriate to touring theatre in schools.