Theatre, music, aerial dance, puppetry, comedy, literature, art exhibitions and workshops for children aged two and older will be presented at this year’s Baboró International Arts Festival for Children
Baboró, which will open on Monday next, October 15 and run until Sunday, October 21, will showcase the biggest programme of Irish work for children and families ever presented in Ireland, alongside work from Scotland, England, Italy, Germany and Canada. In total more than 80 performances of 16 productions will take place every day and evening throughout the week.

Donegal’s aerial dance company Fidget Feet will perform their thrilling version of Red Riding Hood, Catch Me for ages eight and over, while Scotland’s award-winning Visible Fictions will present their hit show, a version of the classic tale, Jason and the Argonauts for ages nine and over. Theatre Lovett bring their enthralling performance of The House That Jack Filled for ages eight and over, and Drama Works Ireland present Children of the Black Skirt. This gothic tale for young audiences ages 10-16 is by award-winning Australian author Angela Betzien.

Families can also enjoy an exquisite stage adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s story, The Happy Prince, narrated by Little John Nee, with a musical score composed and conducted by Vincent Kennedy and performed by Donegal Youth Orchestra and Choir.

Irish language and bilingual productions feature strongly, including Spraoí, a physical theatre show from Branar Téatar Do Pháistí for ages 3-5. It’s the story of two boys, one Irish and one Catalan, who must learn to communicate so they can play together. Púca Puppets bring their beautiful show, Tic Teac Tic Teac, an experience for children aged 3-5 to enjoy with their parents. Fibín Teo will present the world premiere of Bodach an Chóta Lachna, a physical show for ages 7-11, based on a legend from the ancient Irish Fianna cycle.

Graffiti Theatre, one of Ireland’s best children’s theatre groups, will bring their show An Fear Siúil (Walking Man) for ages 6-9. This story is told on a beautiful, miniature handcrafted wooden set, with live musical accompaniment.

Other highlights include toddler shows including Italy’s Teatrimperfetti with their colourful work Tiny Coloured Movements for ages 2-5. Germany’s HELIOS Theater present H20, a science show for children aged 2-4 in which a real water village is created. Potato Needs a Bath comes from Scottish performer Shona Reppe and it’s for ages 2-5.

Kids aged from 7-12 can enjoy the Róisín Beag’s Silent Disco, two hours of dancing and merriment. Meanwhile Baboró will introduce its first ever stand-up comedy show, as author Steve Hartley brings his hilarious book Danny Baker Record Breaker to life.

There are also free literature events with Joyce Dunbar, the author of over 80 books, including Puss Jekyll Cat Hyde. Her daughter, the award-winning author and illustrator Polly Dunbar will introduce children to her new picture-book adventure, Arthur’s Dream. The duo will also read from favourite children’s books on Sunday, October 21. Established, emerging and aspiring children’s writers will have an opportunity to join Steve Hartley, Polly Dunbar and Joyce Dunbar as they share their experience in a Meet the Authors special.

For more, read this week's Galway City Tribune.