This February half-term, London’s Southbank Centre presents the world premiere of Quentin Blake’s Mrs Armitage on Wheels – a brand-new musical adaptation of the much-loved story by iconic children’s illustrator and author Sir Quentin Blake. Running from 18–21 February 2026 in the Purcell Room, this joyful 50-minute production brings Mrs Armitage’s cheeky inventions and boundless imagination to life on stage.
Meet Mrs Armitage, the marvellous and eccentric inventor, as she pedals off on a simple bike ride with her loyal dog Breakspear – only to transform her trusty bicycle into a riotous contraption of horns, snack trays, umbrellas and more along the way! This heartwarming show blends clever puppetry, live music and imaginative storytelling, celebrating creativity, community and pure fun.
Perfect for families with children aged 3–8, this delightful theatre experience is part of the Southbank Centre’s family-friendly Imagine Festival, one of the UK’s favourite creative celebrations for young audiences during the February half-term.
Tickets from £22 + booking fee – a magical outing the whole family will love!
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see Sir Quentin Blake’s imaginative world leap from page to stage in a show packed with heart, humour and wonder. Perfect for kids, parents and fans of inventive storytelling alike!
Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond.
Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content.
In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK.
Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.
