Remember endless summers spent roaming the neighbourhood with friends? This August, the Barbican is reimagining this carefree right of passage with a dazzling programme of family events hosted on an artist- and architect-designed pop-up ‘play street’ packed with interactive games and play prompts. Taking over the centre’s iconic Curve gallery from 1st-23rd of August, Our Street invites young visitors and their families to try out classic games including hopscotch and hula-hooping, as well as board games, crafting activities and lots more.
Head down on Saturdays for immersive street parties hosted by comic art duo Hunt & Darton (3rd), charity London Play (10th) and youth charity Accumulate and dance collective Bullerengue Circle (17th); or on Wednesdays (14th and 21st) to experience Museum of London Play Cycle – a pop-up play programme that brings a new creative experience (via a special bike) to Our Street each week. Or why not try Material Play on Thursdays (8th, 15th and 22nd), featuring chances to design your own paper playground and build dens using string, ribbon, pegs, fabrics and sensory materials. Other highlights will include Relaxed Play with daryl & co for families of neurodivergent and disabled children (16th) and a special Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave (18th).
Where?: Our Street will be located in the Barbican’s Curve gallery, which is accessed from the back of the Curve near Door 8 of the Concert Hall. There will be signs and staff around to help. Find the Barbican Centre at Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS (nearest station Barbican).
When?: Every day 10am-6pm from 1st-23rd of August. See the full events schedule here.
Who?: Our Street‘s daytime games are aimed at ages 5+ and their families. Friday Rhyme Time sessions (2nd, 9th, 23rd) are designed for 0-5s and Big Fish Little Fish is for 0-8s. Our Street Lates (8th, 15th, 22nd) are for ages 18+ only.
Cost?: Entry to Our Street is free but booking is recommended. Some events (such as Big Fish Little Fish) are paid.
Where to next?: Check out the Barbican’s immersive Francis Alÿs: Ricochets exhibition, celebrating the universality and ingenuity of play (until 1st of September). Or visit the centre’s spectacular urban jungle, the verdant Conservatory (20th, 21st and 22nd)
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