Review: MAANIKA AND THE WOLF, Polka Theatre - Centre Court Shopping Centre

Maanika and the Wolf is a Polka Theatre production for 3-6 year olds. Accompanied by two children aged 3 and 6, a great time was had all round. Marking the first show the children have seen since the pandemic, it was certainly a great experience for them. Polka Theatre is still undergoing refurbishments so they are currently based at the Centre Court Shopping Centre in Wimbledon, not far from their original location.

The show is created and directed by Peter Glanville, Polka’s creative director. It is a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood infused with Indian culture and traditions; a great way of introducing children to the wider world and other cultures, with Indian dialogue and songs. The set, designed by Sophia Lovell Smith, is also very much Indian-inspired. Though the children are not allowed to touch anything due to Covid, the colours and textures are very much enjoyable for them, with excellent music by British Asian musician Arun Ghosh. Ruchika Jain, who performs solo for the show’s duration, is an amazing performer/storyteller who captivates the children’s imagination with movement, songs and puppetry.

Maanika and the Wolf gets 5 stars from all three of us! We loved the intimate setting and enjoyed every bit of the performance.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Irene Bausas

Maanika and the Wolf continues at the Centre Court Shopping Centre, Wimbledon until 29 August.