Much-loved children’s book, that encourages looking after the natural environment, brought to life on stage.

Illustrated drawing of a friendly badger putting a leaf in a bin, surrounded by the forest in which he lives. Behind one of the trees is a bottle of washing-up liquid. The title 'Tidy' is in large black letters.

Polka Theatre and Theatr Iolo are set to transform Emily Gravett’s inspiring and funny illustrated story, Tidy, into a magical stage production for children aged 3-7.

The production will bring to life the tale of a badger who likes everything to be neat and tidy, but who accidently destroys his own home whilst cleaning up the forest where he lives.

Based on the children’s picture book by multi-award-winning author and illustrator, Emily Gravett, Tidy, is a gentle but cautionary tale about the value of the world around us and what happens if we don’t look after it. Published in 2016 by Two Hoots, an imprint of Macmillan Children’s Books, Tidy is well-loved by families and teachers alike.

With beautiful puppets, original music and a touch of silliness, this playful show will delight young audiences, as it explores how everyone needs a little bit of wild chaos in their lives.

Directed by Theatr Iolo’s Artistic Director, Lee Lyford, Tidy will open at Polka Theatre in Wimbledon in February 2024 and run for six weeks. The show will then transfer to Wales in spring 2025, where it will be performed alongside Taclus, a Welsh language version based on the adaptation by Mari George, published by Rily.

Tidy will be performed at Polka Theatre from 10 February until 24 March 2024. Tickets are now available to buy online from polkatheatre.com or by calling the Box Office 020 8543 4888. For more information about the tour of Tidy and Taclus in Wales, visit theatriolo.com and sign up to their e-newsletter.

Tidy is based on the award-winning picture book by on Emily Gravett.

Aled Rees7 June 2023