This summer, family theatre gets a vibrant makeover as SPLAT!, a high-energy, wordless physical comedy about art and creativity, hits the road for a UK-wide tour from May to August 2025. Designed especially for children aged 3 to 7 — and their adults — SPLAT! promises 55 minutes of riotous colour, laughter, and learning at 25 theatres across the country.
Set inside a bright, playful artist’s studio, SPLAT! follows two wildly different painters — one neat and methodical, the other messy and mischievous — as they explore the world of art and learn to work together. What begins as a pristine white stage transforms into an explosion of paint and play, offering a sensory-rich spectacle where children can giggle, gasp, and engage with creativity in action.
Developed in collaboration with acclaimed deaf artist and performer Brian Duffy, SPLAT! is completely language-free and fully accessible to deaf and non-English-speaking audiences. It’s a celebration of universal communication — through movement, music, colour, and clowning — making it an ideal introduction to theatre for young children or those new to the arts.
The show cleverly weaves a visual journey through the history of art, from cave paintings to Pop Art and graffiti. Children will encounter iconic works and styles inspired by artistic giants like Da Vinci, Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, and Banksy — all brought to life in a way that’s both educational and wildly entertaining.
Director and lead creative Jack Kelly, trained at the renowned Ecole Jacques Lecoq in Paris, brings his international experience in clowning and physical theatre to the stage. His aim? To spark imagination, encourage playfulness, and remind us all of Picasso’s famous words:
“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.”
The themes of SPLAT! feel especially timely. Born from the conversations around children’s wellbeing and creative learning during the 2020 pandemic, the production champions unstructured play as vital for emotional and cognitive development. Experts agree — play improves everything from confidence to mental health — and SPLAT! provides a joyful, theatrical space where kids can explore those benefits first-hand.
Whether your child is a budding artist, a curious clown, or simply needs a reason to laugh out loud, SPLAT! offers something special. No script. No pressure. Just pure, joyful mess.
UK Tour Highlights
Catch SPLAT! in locations from Cheltenham to Greenwich, and from Dumfries to Exeter, with standout dates including:
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May 24 – Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham
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June 1 – Lakeside Theatre, Nottingham
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July 5-6 – Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock
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August 7 – Exeter Phoenix, Exeter
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August 22-23 – Bellerby Studio, Guildford
(Full tour listings available at www.ofthejackel.co.uk/splat)
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Age Range: 3–7 (plus accompanying grown-ups)
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Run Time: 55 minutes
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Language: None — fully visual and accessible
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Themes: Art, collaboration, play, imagination
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Tickets: Check local venues or visit ofthejackel.co.uk
So grab your aprons, bring your imagination, and get ready to dive into the messiest, most marvellous show of the summer.