Woolwich Works, London’s best-connected arts and entertainment venue is set to launch the February half-term break in spectacular style with a vibrant programme of family-friendly events, live performance and hands-on creative workshops, beginning with London’s biggest Lunar New Year Fair on the weekend of 7–8 February and continuing throughout the school holidays.
From colourful market stalls, live East Asian performance and cultural workshops, to ballet for little ones, free craft sessions and an uplifting youth orchestra concert, families are invited to make Woolwich Works their go-to destination for discovery, creativity and shared experiences this half-term.
For families with older children (recommended PG) and teens, Throne of Ashes: Ìkú Bàbá Yèyé lands in the Fireworks Factory on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 February. Performed in English and starring major Nigerian Nollywood talent Femi Brand and Ibrahim Chatta, this epic stage drama throws audiences into the intrigue, splendour and rivalries of the Oyo Empire at the height of its power.
On Saturday 14 February, younger audiences can enjoy The Very Busy Bumblebee, a warm, funny and gentle introduction to ballet from the Let’s All Dance Ballet Company. With colourful characters and a big-hearted environmental message, it follows Beatrice the bee as she tries to persuade Mr Grumpy the Gardener to ditch the litter and respect the garden (and its most important pollinators).
Half-term week itself brings the return of Woolwich Works’ much-loved Spring Crafternoons from Monday 16 to Thursday 19 February, with relaxed, nature-inspired activities designed for all ages; Paper Tulips, Paper Chain Caterpillars, Sun Paper Plate Craft and Tissue Paper Butterflies. Sessions are donation-based with multiple start times each day, making them easy to fit around naps, lunch, and everything else.
To then round things off, the talented young musicians who make up the Chineke! Junior Orchestra returns to the Fireworks Factory on Sunday 22 February for a free-to-book spring performance, sharing the results of their collaborative weekend working together, including Márquez’s Danzón No. 2 and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s African Suite.
Nick Williams, Director at Woolwich Works said: “We always love half-term at Woolwich Works, it’s a chance to throw the doors open and fill these incredible historic spaces with colour, creativity and brilliant live performance. From the Lunar New Year celebrations to hands-on Crafternoons and uplifting music from the Chineke! Junior Orchestra, we’re proud to offer something that feels welcoming, affordable, and genuinely fun for families across South East London and beyond.”
