Your Toys

Slot Machine Theatre bring Your Toys to the Brighton Dome this autumn, with ten performances running from Wednesday 28 October to Sunday 1 November. It's a puppetry show with a bit of a twist: the characters aren't provided by the company. Instead, every single one comes from the audience. Buzz Lightyear, Barbie, a fluffy octopus, and even a stray Lego piece are the kinds of things that end up on stage, lent to the company by the families in the room.

The show didn't start in a rehearsal room, either. It was built in workshops with children, and their ideas and characters are what drive the story—a heart-warming one about new friends pulling together, with music, belly laughs and a fair few surprises along the way. Both grown-ups and children are invited to bring along a toy to lend to the company, which then comes to life on stage. It's a nice way for the kids to see something they actually own play a part in the action.

There's a bit of a green angle to it, too. The production was made to the Theatre Green Book benchmarks, with a focus on reusing materials and sustainability. It's aimed at children aged 4 to 9 and their families, and they've got relaxed performances and touch tours available in advance for young people with low vision or special education needs.

There are ten shows across the half-term break, all in the Studio Theatre at the Brighton Dome, with the latest running at 2pm and doors opening 45 minutes before each one. Tickets are £16.50 for adults, £12.50 for children, and £48 for a family, with Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival members saving £2 on full-price tickets.