Enchanting new play for children and families wings its way to Leeds Playhouse for the festive season

Are you ready to have your heart warmed? Leeds-based theatre company Tutti Frutti is bringing Red Robin’s Winter Song – a joy-filled new children’s play by award-winning author and playwright Manjeet Mann – to Leeds Playhouse for the festive season.

This enchanting tale follows a small but brave Red Robin who stays behind as the other birds leave for winter. Encountering a quiet and unfamiliar world, Robin discovers new friends, learns to see the beauty around them, and finds the courage to sing their own special winter song.   

Filled with beautiful music, playful adventures and cosy storytelling, this heartwarming production celebrates friendship, courage, and finding where you truly belong.

Red Robin’s Winter Song is designed for children aged 3+ and is gentle enough for even the smallest theatregoers.  

Manjeet’s work has earned plaudits from critics and audiences alike, with her stage adaptation of her debut novel Run, Rebel winning best production at the 2025 Off West End Theatre Awards.

Wendy Harris, Tutti Frutti’s artistic director, who is also directing the show, said: “We are delighted to be working with such a gifted writer as Manjeet. Red Robin’s Winter Song is a gentle, heartwarming tale that is just the tonic as the autumn colours change and the nights draw in.

“I love the way Robin discovers that being different can be a strength, and that you don’t have to follow the crowd to find where you belong. Manjeet brings warmth, humour and real emotional depth to the story, while making these big themes accessible to our youngest audiences.”

Writer Manjeet Mann said: “It’s a real privilege to be working with Tutti Frutti, an inspirational theatre company that is known across the country and beyond for its brilliant, inclusive storytelling. I hope Red Robin’s Winter Song brings as much joy to audiences as it did to me writing it.”

Emily Chattle has been cast as Robin; Miyu Potin-Sawanda as Swallow & Mouse; and Adrien Spencer as Hedgehog & Waxwing. 

The creative team includes Director Wendy Harris, Writer Manjeet Mann, Set & Costume Designer Catherine Chapman, Movement Director Vince Virr, Lighting Designer Sara Burns, Composer & Musical Director Lee Affen, Musical Director Christella Litras, Production Manager Calum Clark, and Stage Manager Steve Watling.

Families are at the heart of the theatre experience at Leeds Playhouse. As well as enjoying the on-stage delights on offer, families can make use of the theatre’s child-friendly facilities, including its free creative play area, baby changing facilities and family toilets, highchairs and special catering options.

Red Robin’s Winter Song plays at Leeds Playhouse Dec 12 to Dec 23. Tickets are available here.