Soft or Spiky? at Z-arts

Shekina Rose, Families Editor

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Soft or Spiky?

Z-arts, Manchester
21-23 February 2025
Date
Time
Session Features
22 Feb 2025
2:00 pm
21 Feb 2026
11:00 am
21 Feb 2025
2:00 pm

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

Image of actor within the set, wearing green pom poms. Soft or spiky? at z-arts
Half Moon
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This February, Half Moon and Polka Theatre present Soft or Spiky? at Z-arts, an interactive production for babies aged 6-18 months which takes little ones into a world of shapes, sounds, and textures. 

What would you ask your baby? And what might they ask you? Soft or Spiky? playfully explores these questions, guiding babies and their grownups through a sensory-rich journey of discovery and fun!

Inspired by real-life conversations with new parents, the show highlights the many different ways we communicate and build understanding with one another.

One of the show’s special features features is its minimal use of language, making it accessible to d/Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and non-English speaking audiences. It’s an inclusive space where every child can participate. 

At the end of each performance, families are invited to a stay-and-play session for more sensory play.  

Accessibility

  • Parent and Baby

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