Wayfarers Arcade in Southport is bringing the world of Roald Dahl to life this weekend

The beautiful Wayfarers Shopping Arcade, on Lord Street in Southport town centre, is stepping into the ‘whimsical world of Roald Dahl’ this weekend.

The legendary author’s book characters will be brought to life in a range of performances on Saturday 14th September 2024 inside the 126-year-old Victorian arcade.

The celebration follows the official Roald Dahl Day, on Friday 13th September, which would have been the writer’s 108th birthday.

Talented actors from The Gambolling Arena Theatre Company will whisk children and families away during different clips of various plays – from The Twits to Matilda.

Gambolling Arena Director, Suzy Walker, says her actors have been working hard.

“I do a lot with Roald Dahl’s books, I specialise in him. We’re actually accredited by his granddaughter.

“Dahl writes for children. A lot of his books cover quite dark topics but he writes in a way that is for kids – he fights adversity.

“There’s not one little girl who doesn’t know Matilda and the song, ‘Revolting Children’.

“We just want to celebrate him, he’s still incredibly popular.”

The event is free to attend, and people do not need to book tickets. Showtimes are at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

Suzy also said there is a chance for children to get involved. They can bring their own stories and pictures which the theatre team will showcase during their tours.

“Most plays the actors have been on tours with, so they know what they are doing. They know Dahl well and they all love him too.”

The team performed at Wayfarers Shopping Arcade during the summer and are excited to be back.

Suzy said:

“Last time at Wayfarers it was incredible.

“We did four shows over the course of the Southport Food and Drink Festival which was a sunny and hot weekend. But every show was still packed!

“It creates a great footfall for Wayfarers Arcade and it’s such a beautiful place to perform, we’re really looking forward to it.”

For more details of what’s on at Wayfarers Arcade visit their website.

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