Step into Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall this summer and you’ll find yourself swept into a world unlike any other – one where dragons prowl, animals dance through forests, and the air crackles with elemental magic.
If you’re after something out-of-the-ordinary to fill those long school break afternoons, Turbine Hall is London’s biggest and boldest playground right now. Inspired by Ingmar Bergman’s film version of Mozart’s much-loved opera The Magic Flute, Monster Chetwynd’s immersive experience invites families to ditch the sidelines and leap right onto the stage.
This isn’t the kind of art you tiptoe around: you’re handed costumes, puppets, and handmade props, then encouraged to transform into performers, musicians, or mischievous forest creatures.
Welcome to Thunder, Crackle and Magic, Monster Chetwynd’s gloriously theatrical installation for UNIQLO Tate Play, starting from July 19 and running until August 25. It’s easily one of the summer holidays’ most fun days out with kids – and best of all, it’s completely free.
The fun unfolds across three staging grounds. First, there’s Dragon Island where taming a dragon is highly encouraged and no kraken (or child in a sparkly cape) is left behind. Next, you’ll stumble into Wild Animal Forest, a technicolour riot of costumes, sound, and movement; here, the serious business of puppet animation and animal impressions is heartily celebrated. Finally, at Tested by the Elements, you’ll tap into wind, fire and water, using choreography and DIY stage effects to conjure up a real sense of adventure.
The best part? Every visit is different, and there’s no pressure to “get” anything – this is pure interactive fun, with a creative kick. The sets are a feast for the senses, packed with hand-painted backdrops, madcap props, and enough sparkle to make any little drama-lover’s heart sing. Just as Bergman’s film celebrated the spirit of make-believe, Thunder, Crackle and Magic hands the reigns of storytelling back to the kids.
Accessibility is part of the magic too, with relaxed hours every Tuesday morning (from July 22 to August 19) offering a gentler entry for families who’d rather avoid the hustle and bustle. And with the South Bank’s endless riverside eats and buskers on your doorstep, a trip to Tate Modern easily spins out into a full day of London adventure.