Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Entertainment
Miriam Gillinson

Solstice review – a shimmering, heart-on-sleeve ode to nature for children

Solstice from Wild Rumpus at Battersea Arts Centre, London.
Light touch … Solstice from Wild Rumpus at Battersea Arts Centre, London. Photograph: Harry Elletson

The special thing about this immersive light-led experience for young children is just how much freedom it allows its audience. Puppets, storytellers and other friendly faces pop up throughout this seasonal adventure, but it’s down to the children to forge their own path. My three-year-old son Benji is at ease from the off, approaching the glowing animals or gleaming installations at his own pace, in his own particular way.

A collaboration between BAC and immersive events experts Wild Rumpus, it is essentially a nature-themed sculptural installation for little ones, with bonus interactive elements woven in. We start in spring. A canopy of rainbow-coloured paper streamers hangs from the ceiling and oversized flowers and nest sculptures lie scattered about the room. There are chalkboards inviting the children to add their own sketches. As Benji scribbles away, a giant but delicate dragonfly puppet flutters about his face. It could’ve been a slightly scary encounter but in this carefully curated space – with lulling music and smiling puppeteers – it’s a warm and gentle moment.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.