Fidget Theatre

Fidget Theatre is a United Kingdom-based nonprofit organization and registered charity (charity number 1206826) focused on creating playful, witty, and participatory theatre for children and family audiences. Established in 2015 and based in Leeds, the organization embraces collaborative creative processes that encourage thoughtful reflection on contemporary issues through imaginative and heartfelt performances.

Mission and Artistic Approach

Fidget Theatre aims to make high-quality family theatre that warmly welcomes children and their families. Its productions invite audiences to actively participate, fostering a collective and meaningful live experience. The company emphasizes imaginative storytelling combined with a spirit of inclusivity and engagement, encouraging audiences who appreciate interactive and lively theatre.

Activities and Performances

Since its inception, Fidget Theatre has toured extensively across the UK, performing in various venues such as theatres, libraries, and community arts spaces. The company collaborates with exceptional creatives to produce works that combine entertainment with thoughtful questions about the world.

Notable productions include:

• Molly’s Marvellous Moustache (2016), praised as “a children’s production that’s delightful from start to finish, a celebration of the imagination.”
• Bird’s Nest Billy (2019), recognized as “a great example of how to engage and hold an early years audience” by Arts Council England.
• Jack Frost (2018–2020), described as “utterly enchanting” by the Sheffield Star.
• Robyn Hood (2025), a reinvention of the classic folk tale for family audiences.

These productions highlight the company’s commitment to inventive storytelling and audience interaction.

Leadership

Fidget Theatre is co-led by Artistic Directors Ruth Cooper and Andrea Heaton, who drive the company’s creative vision and collaborative ethos. Their leadership reflects a dedication to crafting performances that are both accessible and thought-provoking for families.

Recognition

Critics and audiences have lauded Fidget Theatre for its imaginative and engaging productions that resonate with young audiences and their families alike. The organization’s approach has helped establish it as a notable contributor to family-oriented theatre in the UK.

This article summarizes Fidget Theatre’s foundation, mission, artistic output, and leadership, showcasing its role as a vibrant charitable organization dedicated to enriching family theatre through participation and creativity[1][3][4].

[1] https://fidgettheatre.com [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5228813/contact-information [3] https://ruthcooper.org/blog/fidget-theatre/ [4] https://bradford2025.co.uk/event/robyn-hood/ [5] https://fidgetfeet.com/futureproducers/