Turned On Its Head

Roll, squeeze and pop yourself through a new malleable kind of show, set to an original 1970s-influenced score, perfect for babies, young children and families.

Two friendly dancers are here to guide you, revealing small- and large-scale squishy, squashy environments, fascinating in shape, texture and touch. You also get to meet the leggy character Splegs, who needs a bit of help walking.

Dance company Turned On Its Head makes exciting participatory theatre for early years, taking children on a creative journey, engaging audiences throughout its performances and encouraging lots of family interaction. Everything in Sponge can be made with simple materials at home so there’s plenty more fun to be had after leaving the Barbican.

45 mins/no interval

Age guidance:
Baby shows: 3–14 months (10:30am, 11:00am performances)
Children’s shows: 3 months–4 years (1:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm performances)

Baby shows are gentler and have interactions that are suitable for babies only and their development during that phase of life. All other shows have all the delights of the baby shows but are more full-bodied and physical. Both shows are suitable for babies

All performances are relaxed, which means they are open to anyone and are suitable for children who have physical or learning disabilities, sensory or communication needs.