Anna Hibiscus' Song by Atinuke: An enchanting performance comes to Rotherham

A scene from Anna Hibiscus’ Song (Photo Credit: Utopia Theatre)

A MUCH-LOVED children’s book being brought to the stage by an African theatre company is making two appearances in Rotherham this month.

Anna Hibiscus' Song by Atinuke, co-produced by Utopia Theatre and Sheffield Theatres, is on a run of dates in community venues this month, with all performances running on a “pay as you can” basis to make sure that the shows are accessible and inclusive for as many families as possible.

Told through music, dance, puppetry and traditional African storytelling, Anna Hibiscus’ Song is a theatrical adaptation of writer Atinuke’s popular children's book and is suitable for children aged three and above and their families.

The show comes to the Riverside Library and Neighbourhood Hub in Rotherham at 2pm on Monday, July 24, and 5.30pm on Tuesday, July 25.

The production is also running at Sheffield’s Playhouse theatre from tonight until Saturday.

Described as “a story of happiness, of self-discovery of song, and of dance”, the uplifting play tells the story of Nigerian girl Anna, who filled with happiness by her love of singing.

Performances will be interactive and colourful throughout, which will bring both the stage and story to life.

The cast includes Althea Burey, who will play the roles of narrator, Angel and Mama, and Malick Bojang who will be Grandfather, Chocolate and Papa, while Saskia Rose – whose recent professional credits include touring with educational productions of Shakespeare’s works with The Globe Players – takes the title role of Anna Hibiscus.

Music will be provided on-stage by Julius Obende, who has collaborated with British Council Nigeria and Goethe Institut.

Kareem-Elufowoju, the Utopia Theatre chief executive officer and artistic director, said: “It promises to be an energetic stage adaptation which will light up imaginations and provide fun for both families and school groups.”

Standard ticket prices for the Rotherham performances are £10 for adults, £7.50 for children and £5 or £3 for pay what you can tickets.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.tinyurl.com/AnnaPlay.

Tickets for the Sheffield performances can be booked through the Box Office in person, over the phone on 0114 249 6000 or at sheffieldtheatres.co.uk.