Celebrate Roald Dahl's Centenary At Southbank Centre

Laura Reynolds
By Laura Reynolds Last edited 99 months ago
Celebrate Roald Dahl's Centenary At Southbank Centre
See the BFG performed as a  family concert

Roald Dahl would turn 100 years old this year, and his work is still widely recognised and loved today, with two of his plays currently being performed as West End musicals. No surprise then that Southbank Centre has chosen to celebrate his life and work as part of this year’s Imagine Children’s Festival.

Did you know that during his life, Roald Dahl was a spy, a fighter pilot, and a historian of chocolate? The Wondercrump World Of Roald Dahl is an interactive experience giving an insight into the little-known caveats of Dahl’s life, where much of his literary inspiration came from. It’s aimed at ages 7-12, but we reckon parents who were raised on an intellectual diet of Dahl will enjoy it just as much.

Other Dahl events are going on throughout the festival; Budding bookworms can enjoy the tale of another budding bookworm as Matilda is read in a day, while Dahl's final book, The Minpins, is brought to life in animation, backed by a life orchestra. BFG fans can make their own Dream Jar, and those with a sweet tooth can take part in a Willy Wonka sing-a-long.

While Roald Dahl takes centre stage, other children’s authors are celebrated at the festival. Michael Morpurgo and David Walliams make a joint appearance, and Judith Kerr takes part in a Q&A about her latest book, Mister Cleghorn's Seal.

Combine these events with craft activities, workshops, a singing session and more, and that’s February half term covered, whatever the weather.

Imagine Children’s Festival takes place at Southbank Centre 10-21 February. Check individual events for time, price and booking details.

Last Updated 28 January 2016