While London’s cultural calendar often features notable children’s productions, the upcoming musical adaptation of “Mrs Armitage on Wheels” promises something truly special for families. This brand-new stage production, based on Quentin Blake’s beloved character, will premiere at the Southbank Centre’s Purcell Room from February 18 to February 21, 2026, as part of the Imagine Festival.
The show transforms the classic tale into a musical adventure featuring puppetry and live music, celebrating the power of imagination and community.
Blake’s delightful tale springs to life through vibrant puppetry and melodic compositions, showcasing creativity’s transformative magic.
The 50-minute production follows Mrs Armitage, portrayed as a brilliant eccentric inventor, as she sets off on a seemingly simple bike ride to visit her cousin Angela. What begins as a quiet journey soon evolves as Mrs Armitage continuously improves her bicycle with increasingly elaborate additions. Accompanied by her faithful dog Breakspear, she adds horns, snack trays, umbrellas, a dog bed, and even a sail, complicating her journey with each new invention. Her whimsical creations showcase her practical yet eccentric approach to everyday problems. The production draws inspiration from the BBC animated series that introduced many children to this charming character.
Director Samantha Lane, Artistic Director of Little Angel Theatre, leads the creative team alongside songwriter Jessie Maryon Davies, who has created original music and lyrics for the production. Ryan Dawson Laight designed the sets and costumes, while Maia Kirkman-Richards handled puppetry design and direction, with sound design by Ian Oakley.
Performances are scheduled for 10:30 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:30 PM on varying days throughout the run, with no shows on Monday, Tuesday, or Sunday. The production includes BSL interpreted and relaxed performances to guarantee accessibility for all audiences. Ticket prices for this delightful adventure start from £27.00 per person.
Presented by esk and Roast Productions and developed in association with Eagle Eye and Little Angel Theatre, the musical builds upon the award-winning BBC animated series “Quentin Blake’s Box of Treasures.”
The show is suitable for ages 3 and older, with all attendees requiring tickets except babes in arms under 18 months. Children under 12 must sit next to an accompanying adult.
Tickets will go on sale from November 20, 2025, for this strictly limited run at the UK’s largest arts center, described as the heart of London’s cultural life.
