May Half Term Outdoor Family Theatre: Upstream Sat 30 & Sun 31 May
Discover a magical riverside adventure this May Half Term. Meet Lyra and the towering Old Mother River in a visually stunning outdoor interactive puppetry theatre experience about caring for our waterways.
- Booking essential
Join us at Morden Hall Park for Upstream, a captivating outdoor family theatre performance by award-winning Smoking Apples Theatre.
Lyra is a fearless water explorer who loves the marsh and river she calls home. When the water starts to change and wildlife begins to disappear, she camps beneath her favourite willow tree to find answers. As day turns to night, Old Mother River rises before her, a breathtaking three-metre-tall puppet with flowing willow hair and a face full of memory. Together they journey beneath the surface to uncover what has happened to the river and how we can all play a part in protecting it.
Combining striking puppetry, fast-paced physical theatre and an original score, Upstream explores rivers, pollution and positive environmental action in a way that is engaging, hopeful and accessible for all ages.
Each 30-minute performance is followed by a meet and greet with the performers. Families can also enjoy nearby nature play and explore Henry the Heron’s Riverbank Trail, to commemorate London Rivers Week and our wider summer-long celebration of the River Wandle.
A small chill-out tent will also be available throughout the performance for those who can benefit from it.
Tickets £7 per person £25 family ticket for up to 4 people including adults or children age 3+
Children 2 and under go free All ages welcome
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| Group 4 adults or children | £25.00 |
| All | £7.00 |
The basics
- Booking details
Call 0344 249 1895
- Suitability
Suitable for ages 3-11
- Meeting point
Welcome desk at the Snuff Mill Bridge for tickets check.
- What to bring and wear
The event will take place entirely outdoors so please dress appropriately for the weather.
- Accessibility
Accessible pathway into the Rose Garden and flat grass suitable for wheelchair users.
- Other
You are welcome to bring a picnic blanket or your own camping chairs.
Upcoming events
Henry the Heron's Riverbank Self-Led Trail
For our river-themed summer, celebrate the river Wandle and learn about the river's inhabitants with some active play parts.
CANCELLED: May Half Term Storytelling and Craft: Mami Wata the African Goddess of Water Thur 28 May
Join writer and cultural facilitator Dr Michelle Yaa Asantewa for a vibrant storytelling and activity session inspired by the powerful West African water spirit, Mami Wata. For ages 3+
London Rivers Week 2026: River Dipping and River Art
Celebrate London Rivers Week with a FREE fun, hands-on morning by the River Wandle!
Park Explorers for under 5s term time on Mondays
Our Park Explorers group is for children aged 2-5 years old and their parents/carers. Together we learn about the natural world around us, with a different outdoor theme each week.