Leeds-based theatre company celebrates 10 years of Fidget(ing)
Fidget Theatre is celebrating its milestone 10th anniversary by teaming up with Leeds Libraries for a magical festive production of The Elves & The Storyteller; An original take on the classic fairytale, the show combines storytelling with original songs, friendly audience participation, and a warm welcome for all the family.
The Leeds-based company, which specialises in creating enchanting, inclusive theatre for children and families, was founded in 2015 by theatre-makers Ruth Cooper-Rowan and Andrea Heaton.
Co-founder Ruth Cooper-Rowan said: “Fidget started as a conversation between friends in the glamorous setting of a soft play centre. After both having children, we were struggling to find our way in our theatre careers and to make the work we wanted to make. So, why not work together and do it ourselves?
Among the many highlights of the past ten years are teaming up with the National Football Museum to create Football Freddie; discovering Leeds Libraries’ treasure trove of real-life female pirate stories, which inspired their one-woman musical Pirate Bonnie; and partnering with Leeds Playhouse to take Robyn Hood on a Community Tour of neighbourhood venues across Leeds.
Looking forward to the next ten years, Ruth said: “We’ve got lots of ideas for future productions and places we’d like to take our shows. The natural progression of childhood means there are always new children and families to introduce to our work.”
Andrea added:“We want to continue creating work that’s enjoyed by adults as well as children. As theatre-makers, we’re always excited by telling new stories and working in new ways.”
Join Fidget and the elves for The Elves & The Storyteller at Leeds Central Library Arts Space this Christmas 6th- 31st December 2025, A Pay-What-You-Decide family friendly event, recommended for ages 3-7 years old. More information; dates, times and tickets at fidgettheatre.com