Susan Jamson from Chickenshed previews the Southgate theatre’s autumn season

With autumn just around the corner, we at Chickenshed are gearing up for a busy season packed with performances, events and activities for all ages.

At the heart of our autumn programme is Red, our brand-new, large-scale festive production inspired by Little Red Riding Hood.

Red is a powerful story about bravery and transformation, brought to life by over 200 performers and a creative team combining striking visuals, original music and Chickenshed’s unique, inclusive approach. Running from November to January, it is set to be one of the highlights of our year.

This year’s Christmas show also see the launch of Chickenshed’s ‘Light Our Stars’ fundraising appeal, which helps young people from all backgrounds grow in confidence and creativity through theatre. Every donation – no matter how big or small – helps us continue supporting the next generation of performers and storytellers.

Families with younger children have plenty to look forward to. Tales from the Shed and Planet Play return with their fun, interactive performances for babies and under-sevens. Halloween Tales brings a half-term treat in October, and Christmas Tales is back in December – full of songs, dancing, puppets and festive mayhem, including a trip into space and a reindeer-related mishap!

We are also welcoming back Baby Broadway Christmas, a musical show for little ones featuring festive songs, bubbles and puppets. And for something a bit different, Baby Knees Up offers a lively sing-along for grown-ups and toddlers – a refreshing break from the usual nursery rhymes.

For adults, Friday Night Funnies brings top comedy acts to the stage, while Jo Collins and Friends return with live music. We’re also hosting a special Christmas concert featuring our community choir, alumni band and more – all coming together for an uplifting evening of seasonal music.

On Saturday, 4th October, we are holding Shine in the Rayne – a gala evening of food, entertainment, and fundraising in support of Chickenshed’s work. The night includes a sparkling drinks reception, a three-course meal prepared by catering students from Oaklands College, and fantastic performances from our cast and musicians.

We have also got a classic Quiz Night lined up – a chance to test your knowledge, enjoy a ploughman’s supper, and join in a relaxed night with friends, family or colleagues. Expect a few surprises along the way and a quiz that’s definitely more fun than formal.

Sunday Shed workshops run every weekend, with sessions for children and adults. And for those looking to create something together, ‘The Family Records’ is a heart-warming community project exploring memories, connection and the joy of shared stories.

There’s a lot happening at Chickenshed this season. Whether you are joining us for a show, taking part in a workshop, or visiting for the first time, we’d love to see you!

For more information and to buy tickets:
Visit chickenshed.org.uk

No news is bad news

Independent news outlets like ours – reporting for the community without rich backers – are under threat of closure, turning British towns into news deserts.

The audiences they serve know less, understand less, and can do less.

If our coverage has helped you understand our community a little bit better, please consider supporting us with a monthly, yearly or one-off donation.

Choose the news. Don’t lose the news.

Monthly direct debit

Annual direct debit

£5 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else, £10 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else and a print copy posted to them each month. £50 annual supporters get a digital copy of each month's paper before anyone else. £84 annual supporters get a print copy by post and a digital copy of each month's before anyone else.