AWARD-WINNING SENSORY THEATRE EXPERIENCE RETURNS TO THE BARBICAN THIS DECEMBER
The Barbican is set to welcome back Univers, an enchanting multi-sensory theatre experience created especially for babies and toddlers, following its acclaimed sell-out London debut.
Photo Credit: Arian Botey Soldevila
Running from 2nd - 12th December 2026, the award-winning production by Catalonia-based theatre company Engruna Teatre invites London's youngest audiences into a magical world of movement, live music and visual storytelling, where curiosity and imagination take centre stage.
Combining captivating performances with an ever-changing landscape of shapes, sounds and textures, Univers offers an immersive theatrical experience designed to stimulate the senses and encourage exploration. Two performers and a live musician bring the stage to life as beautiful objects appear, disappear and transform, creating a playful environment where little ones are encouraged to touch, discover and interact at their own pace.
Inspired by the delicate balance of the universe and the idea that even the smallest action can create extraordinary change, the production celebrates curiosity, connection and the wonder of discovery. Free from conventional storytelling, Univers allows babies and toddlers to experience theatre in their own unique way, while parents and carers share in the magic of their first encounters with live performance.
Following its successful Barbican debut, Univers has captivated audiences internationally, travelling to Sydney Opera House in Australia, Festival MIMOS in France and Ruhrtriennale at PACT Zollverein in Germany. Its return to London marks another chapter in the production's international journey.
Photo Credit: ASSITEJ Korea
Created by Engruna Teatre, a Catalonia-based company with more than 15 years of experience producing imaginative theatre for young audiences, the production reflects the company's distinctive approach to storytelling through music, puppetry, movement and visual poetry.
Toni Racklin, Barbican Head of Theatre & Dance, said: “There’s something very special about welcoming a baby into The Pit for what might be their very first experience of theatre. We’re thrilled to welcome Engruna Teatre and Univers back to the Barbican this December, and to create a space where babies, toddlers and their grown-ups can discover, play and experience the magic of live performance together.”
With its intimate setting, gentle soundscape and interactive elements, Univers offers a unique introduction to the performing arts, inviting families to experience the beauty of theatre through the eyes of their youngest members.
Univers runs at The Pit, Barbican Centre, London, from 2nd - 12th December 2026 with performances at 10am, 12pm and 3pm on selected dates.
The production lasts approximately 40 minutes and is suitable for children aged 0–2. Tickets start from £14 per adult, plus booking fee, and £12 per baby.
For tickets and further information, visit www.barbican.org.uk.