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We Cover the Universe

Akin

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An illustration of a young person holding paint brushes and pens. A sweep of blue paint creates a rainbow over their head.

Awaken your imagination with this interactive, sensory and wondrous online show for under-fives, their parents/carers and families. Poetry, drawing and gentle play combine to broaden your horizons.

We first meet Dot when she’s feeling small. She’s stuck in a grey room until, one day, she starts to draw and dream. Plucking up the courage to venture out, she encounters a glorious new world of colour. And learns there’s more to life than she ever thought.

Two friendly performers Rachel Lincoln and Remmie Milner (His Dark Materials: The Subtle Knife) guide you through simple movement and inventive art-making activities on Zoom, showing you how to explore basic household objects for touch and sound. With magical music, vibrant visuals and playful poetry that appeals to children and adults alike, We Cover the Universe takes families on a journey together, wherever they are, transforming items and spaces before their eyes.

Tagged with: Theatre & dance

Once you’ve booked, we’ll be in touch with the Zoom link one hour before your performance time

Duration: 30 mins, no interval

Age guidance Children under five and their families

Captioned performances
Sat 12 Dec, 10.30am & Thu 17 Dec, 2.00pm

An Akin production presented and co-commissioned by the Barbican. Akin are produced by Farnham Maltings.

Creative team

Anna Beecher Writer and Creator
Rachel Lincoln Director, Creator and Performer
Remmie Milner Performer
Kirsty Harris Set and Costume Design
Max Perryment Composition and Sound Design
Daniel Holme Video Director
George Sleightholme Flute, clarinet and saxophone

Reviews

‘A joy‘
British Theatre Guide on Akin’s Nest

Discover

Photo of a lady

Watch: What you’ll need

It’s almost time for the show. Watch as Rachel Lincoln shows you which simple household items you can use to get involved.

Programme

FAQs

Where is this event happening? 

This live and interactive event is completely online on Zoom. One ticket allows one household to take part on one computer.

How do I attend this event? 

This is a ticketed event that you must book for in advance. Tickets are limited to one per household. Once you've booked a ticket, you'll be sent instructions by email on how to join the Zoom call ahead of the event.

What age child is this show suitable for?

We Cover the Universe is aimed at under-fives but it's suitable for the whole family to enjoy. This is a participatory experience to be shared between young audiences and their parents/carers; an adult must be present at all times.

Does everyone in my house need their own ticket?

No. One ticket is needed per household, for example one family watching the show around one computer.

What do equipment will I need?

We will ask you to bring some objects with you to the show. Crayons, pencils or pens and some paper. We will also ask you to bring some simple household objects including; a bottle with water, and something soft to touch, such as a cushion or a soft toy. If you don't have any equipment with you, that's no problem, you can still join in. We will contact you before the show with a full list of equipment.

What is Zoom?

Zoom is free to use video conferencing software. When you make an account you don’t have to hand over personal information or any payment information. It’s really quick and simple. The event on Zoom will be a private event, you won’t be broadcast online. Other guests will be able to see you (which is wonderful in this time of isolation) but you have the option to turn video off. 

What technology will I need?

  • A computer (laptop or desktop)
    Due to the participatory nature of this event we recommend that you don't use a mobile device such as a phone or iPad.
      
  • Zoom application installed  https://zoom.us/
      
  • Speakers
     
  • Camera (optional, but it’s always nice for the performers to see an audience responding)
     
  • Microphone (optional)
     
  • Headphones (optional)