Theatre for the Early Years

Theatre for the Early Years or Early Years Theatre is a form of theatre specifically devised for very young audiences (0-30 months).

This practice has been introduced into South Africa by sensory theatre practitioner Margot Wood and Storywood Theatre Productions, based on her work with Early Years Theatre companies Helios Theatre (Germany), Trusty Sidekick (USA) and Oily Cart (UK). In her piece See the Sea, children are accompanied by at least one parent/caregiver and remain with the caregiver for the duration of the performance (approx 30-45 minutes). Performances are relaxed and intimate with small audiences. The experience is multi-sensory, interactive and exploratory. The facilitators lead the young audience through a series of sea-themed experiences, stimulating sensory perception and a sense of wonderment.