Free family theatre comes to Northampton this August
Outside In Theatre Company is delighted to announce its upcoming immersive summer adventure full of interactive storytelling and crafts! Coming to the Gathering Space at the Grosvenor Shopping Centre this August, Finding Robin’s Rainbow is a magical interactive adventure specially created for children aged 4 to 8 years and their grown-ups.
Running on 4th, 5th, 7th, 8th and 9th August 2026, with sessions at 11am and 2pm, Finding Robin’s Rainbow invites families to step into an imaginative world filled with storytelling, creativity and friendship.
Based on an original story by Outside In Theatre, the experience follows best friends Willow and Robin, who love going on adventures in their imaginations together. But one day, Robin wakes up to discover that all the colour and fun has disappeared from her world. Unsure what to do, she needs the help of her friends.
Families will join Robin and Willow on a joyful, interactive journey to rediscover all the colours of the rainbow through storytelling, multi-sensory games, imaginative play and hands-on crafts. Along the way, audiences might even discover a little something about themselves too.
Children will be invited to take part in the multi-sensory story, play interactive games and create a colourful craft to take home as a keepsake from their adventure.
Finding Robin’s Rainbow has been created by Hazel Barnes and Helen Crevel, Co-Artistic Directors and founders of Northamptonshire-based Outside In Theatre.
Helen said: "Finding Robin's Rainbow celebrates the importance of friendship, imagination and creativity. We wanted to create a joyful experience where families can spend quality time together, playing, making and exploring stories in a welcoming environment."
Incorporating Outside In Theatre's highly personal and relaxed performance style, Finding Robin's Rainbow has been designed to be inclusive and accessible for children and grown-ups of all abilities. Each child attending receives a craft activity to take home, encouraging families to continue their creative adventures long after the event has finished.
Hazel said: "We're passionate about creating experiences that encourage families to connect through imagination and play. This summer adventure combines immersive storytelling with hands-on creativity, giving children the chance to become part of the story while building confidence, curiosity and connection."
"Accessibility and inclusion are at the heart of everything we do, and we're incredibly grateful to Grosvenor Shopping Centre, Northamptonshire Community Foundation, Northampton Town Council, Billing Parish Council and Far Cotton & Delapre Parish Council for supporting this project and helping us bring these magical experiences to local families."
Helen added: "We can't wait to welcome families into our storytelling world this summer. Whether you're discovering Outside In Theatre for the first time or returning for another adventure, Finding Robin's Rainbow promises to be full of laughter, creativity, friendship and colourful surprises."
Each session runs for approximately one hour and is free entry. Spaces are limited so advance booking is recommended. All children aged 2 years and over require a ticket, which includes a craft activity to take home.
Tickets are available through the Outside In Theatre box office.
And also…
Winner of the Northamptonshire Award for Culture and Heritage 2023, Outside In Theatre is based in Northamptonshire and specialises in creating non-traditional, inclusive theatre experiences that promote creativity, wellbeing and community connection. Founding members Hazel Barnes and Helen Crevel are experienced theatre makers and performers whose previous work includes collaborations with the BBC, the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
FINDING ROBIN'S RAINBOW – DATES & TIMES
Tuesday 4th August 2026 – 11am-12pm & 2pm-3pm
Wednesday 5th August 2026 – 11am-12pm & 2pm-3pm
Friday 7th August 2026 – 11am-12pm & 2pm-3pm
Saturday 8th August 2026 – 11am-12pm & 2pm-3pm
Sunday 9th August 2026 – 11am-12pm & 2pm-3pm
Venue: Gatherings, Princes Walk (First Floor) Grosvenor Shopping Centre, Northampton, NN1 2EW
Ticket Tailor: www.tickettailor.com/events/outsideintheatre
Website: www.outsideintheatre.co.uk