World Book Day 2026 is the perfect moment to celebrate the stories that don’t just live on the page, but find new life on our stage. From colourful children’s favourites to powerful literary classics and imaginative works for adults, these productions show how reading continues to spark creativity, imagination, and performance in every corner of our programme.
Family Friendly:
Zog
Based on the beloved picture book by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, Zog follows an eager young dragon determined to win a gold star at Madam Dragon’s school.
This colourful, musical adaptation by Freckle Productions brings the story to life with puppetry, songs, and family‑friendly fun.
On stage 1-2 May 2026. Tickets here.
Robin Hood
This lively Easter pantomime retells the legendary story of Robin Hood, the heroic outlaw who, with his band of Merry Folk, strives to outwit the villainous Sheriff of Rottingham and win the heart of Maid Marion.
KD Theatre Productions are bringing to tale to stage, featuring a mix of comedy, music, dance routines, and plenty of audience participation, making it a fun, family‑friendly adventure.
On stage 18 April 2026. Tickets here.
NICE! Stories and Rhymes with Michael Rosen
Celebrated poet and children’s author Michael Rosen takes the stage with NICE!, a joyful live show honouring his 80th birthday.
Rosen performs some of his best‑known works—including Hot Food, No Breathing, and Chocolate Cake as well as brand‑new poems from his latest collection Peas On Your Knees. The event promises laughter, nostalgia, and the unmistakable charm that has made Rosen one of Britain’s most beloved storytellers.
13 June 2026. Tickets here.
Cinderella
The classic tale of Cinderella returns to The Atkinson as its 2026 Christmas Pantomime, produced by KD Theatre Productions.
Expect dazzling costumes, comedy, live music, wicked stepsisters, and all the festive sparkle audiences have come to love from The Atkinson’s annual panto.
Early bird offer ends 30 April 2026.
On stage 4 – 31 December 2026. Tickets here.
For the Grown-Ups
1984
1984 is one of the most influential works of modern literature, written by George Orwell and published in 1949. Orwell’s book remains a cornerstone of discussions around state control, truth manipulation, and surveillance.
Box Tale Soup’s adaptation brings Orwell’s chilling dystopia to life through striking puppetry and ingenious staging. Their performance captures Winston Smith’s struggle against an all‑seeing regime, echoing the novel’s enduring warning about freedom and truth.
On stage 10 & 11 March 2026. Tickets here.
Mark Smith: Antiques Expert on the Road
Mark Smith isn’t just a celebrated TV expert, he is also a published author. In addition to his respected work on the history of the Victoria Cross and his five books on the Great War, Smith has also written Medal Man, a title that reflects his deep personal connection to militaria and the human stories behind the medals he studies.
His live show, For Valour: The Story of the Victoria Cross, draws on the same rich well of historical knowledge that informs his writing, bringing audiences face‑to‑face with extraordinary acts of bravery.
On stage 31 March 2026. Tickets here.
Garth Marenghi: This Bursted Earth Book Tour
Garth Marenghi (the fictional horror author created by comedian Matthew Holness) is a celebration of books in the most theatrical, tongue‑in‑cheek way. Known for satirising pulp horror writers, Marenghi is presented as the self‑proclaimed “master of the macabre.”
His latest work, This Bursted Earth, continues the trilogy that includes the Sunday Times‑bestselling TerrorTome and Incarcerat. These books parody the tropes of over‑the‑top horror fiction while still delivering genuinely imaginative storytelling.
On stage 31 March 2026. Tickets here.
Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty
First introduced by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in 1887, Sherlock Holmes has become one of literature’s most enduring characters, inspiring countless adaptations across page, screen, and stage.
This new production from Blackeyed Theatre draws on Doyle’s iconic detective stories to create a gripping, atmospheric adventure. Set in 1901, the play follows Holmes and Watson as they confront political intrigue, hidden enemies, and the looming threat of Moriarty in a tense race against time.
On stage 14 & 15 April 2026. Tickets here.
Whistle Down the Wind
Whistle Down was originally a novella written by Mary Hayley Bell in 1958. This later inspired a 1961 film adaptation before becoming the basis for the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, with lyrics by Jim Steinman, transforming Bell’s atmospheric story into a soaring, emotionally charged stage work.
SONG’s amateur production honours the original novel’s themes of trust, redemption, and the fragile but transformative power of faith. With heartfelt storytelling and moving musical numbers, this production offers an uplifting and emotionally rich experience.
On stage 9 – 11 April 2026. Tickets here.
