A new stage adaptation of Jacqueline Wilson’s novel Secrets premieres at Polka theatre in time for half term, running at the Wimbledon children’s theatre from 16 February-19 April.
This is the third time Polka has teamed up with Watershed Productions and adaptor/director Vicky Ireland to bring one of Wilson’s children’s novels to the stage, following Double Act and Bad Girls.
As with many of Wilson’s novels for 8-12 year olds, Secrets does not shy away from dealing with gritty social subjects. Tackling issues of class and social difference, it follows two girls, India and Treasure, who form an unlikely friendship and write about their family problems in diaries, inspired by their heroine Anne Frank.
India lives in a large luxurious house and seems to have it all, but her parents are so busy worrying about themselves she thinks they have forgotten about her. Down on the local estate, Treasure is staying with her wonderful Nan. She really doesn’t want to go back to live with her mum, not while her mum’s new man with his rotten temper is there.
Wilson is one of the UK’s most well known children’s authors and has sold over 20 million copies of her many books, which include The Story Of Tracy Beaker, Jacky Daydream and Vicky Angel. She was made a Dame in the Queen’s New Year Honours List this year for her outstanding contribution to literature.
On Saturday 23 February at 10:00 Wilson will be at Polka theatre to talk about her inspiration for writing Secrets. Tickets for the event cost £5 and can be booked on 020 8543 4888.
For more information visit www.polkatheatre.com
CB