Wednesday 7th to Sunday 11th August – View Programme / BOOK NOW!
Theatre Porto Presents Topsy Turvy 2024: A FREE Spectacular Outdoor Arts Celebration in Whitby Park
Ellesmere Port, Cheshire – Theatre Porto proudly presents the return of its annual FREE outdoor arts extravaganza, Topsy Turvy 2024, set to transform Whitby Park in Ellesmere Port from Wednesday August 7th to Sunday August 11th.
Please consider grabbing a day pass that suits your budget, either FREE or make a donation – if you can contribute, we’d greatly appreciate it!
- The day pass includes all events except some ticketed performances in the theatre
- Tickets for some performances inside the theatre need booking in addition to the day pass
- Ticket FAQs/programme listings/day splits are available here
Running Times / Further Details
- FREE / Pay What You Like passes – BOOK NOW!
- Ticketed Events – BOOK NOW!
- Digital Programme – Click here to view
- A5 Flyer – View/Download
- A3 Poster – View/Download
- Colouring Sheet – View/Download
This year’s event promises an exciting and diverse mix of family-friendly performances, workshops, and events, plus the opening of a collaborative new art installation ‘You, Me and Everything’ – featuring works by local schoolchildren and family portraits taken by community artist Jake Ryan.
The ‘You, Me and Everything’ exhibition explores the importance of interpersonal connections in children’s lives, featuring artwork from nine local primary schools and portraits of nearly 70 local families.
Event Highlights:
- Free daily activities from 11am in and around Theatre Porto, including the outdoor amphitheatre and the green spaces of Whitby Park
- Circus acts, local bands, and choirs
- Dance workshops, theatre shows, and family jams
- Film screenings and creative making spaces
- Special launch event for “You, Me and Everything”
- Inspiring cafe open 11am-7pm every day
Nina Hajiyianni, Artistic Director of Theatre Porto, said: “Topsy Turvy 2024 is a celebration of creativity and community, inspired by children and young people. We’re excited to welcome local families and visitors to Whitby Park in Ellesmere Port for this inclusive, family-friendly outdoor programme.”
Daily Highlights:
Wednesday, August 7th – Opening Day
- Launch of the “You, Me and Everything” art exhibition
- RAWD open session offering theatre and dance workshops
- VIP launch event in the evening
- Family Film Club featuring an “Encanto” sing-along screening
Thursday, August 8th – SEND Focus Day
- SEND picnic and relaxed performance of “Birdie” by Mind The Gap
- “Impossible Machines” arts and crafts workshop
- Regular performance of “Birdie,” exploring climate change through dance and music
Friday, August 9th – Shakespeare and Hobby Horses
- “The Delights” by Turned On Its Head, an interactive outdoor performance
- Hobby Horse making workshop and show jumping competition
- The Rubbish Shakespeare Company presenting “Make Your Own Myth” and “Romeo & Juliet”
Saturday, August 10th – Music and Dance Extravaganza
- All-day walkabout performances throughout Whitby Park
- Performances by Proud Marys LGBTQ choir
- James Lyons’ Beatboxing Show
- “Refuge Island” dance performance by Whispered Tales
- “Pirate Princess” show by Gemma Bond
- Live music showcase featuring local bands
- DJ set by Ellesmere Port Collective
Sunday, August 11th – Family Fun Day
- “The Family Hangout” with games, crafts, and story exploration
- “Best in Show” interactive dog show by the Egg People
- “Cartoon Capers” acrobatic performance featuring a birdcage stage
- Circus workshop and “Lucky Pigeons” show by Brainfools
- Fallen Angels open dance workshop
- “The Family Jam” music session to close the festival
“Topsy Turvy 2024 offers something for children and the child in everyone…” added Nina. “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 FREE to attend, with some ticketed indoor performances and ‘Pay What You Like’ options available. SEND support will be provided across the entire programme.
The programme has been made possible through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
For full event listings and to book a day pass, please visit https://TheatrePorto.org/TopsyTurvy24
