The Polka Theatre’s new production of The Firework-Maker’s Daughter is nothing short of a festive jewel — radiant, heartfelt and crafted with the kind of imaginative flair that feels quintessentially Christmassy. From the moment Lila steps into view, the audience is transported into a richly woven world where adventure crackles at every turn and courage glows brighter than any sparkler.
Tika Mu’tamir is enchanting as Lila, capturing the character’s blend of determination and wonder with a sincerity that young audiences adore and adults quietly admire. Her journey — to become a Master Firework-Maker like her father — unfolds with warmth, humour and a sense of discovery that feels timeless. She is joined by the ever-charming Chulak, played with delightful wit by Jules Chan, and the splendidly pompous elephant Hamlet, brought to life with panache by Ajjaz Awad. Together, they form a trio whose rapport injects the show with charm and buoyancy.
Visually, the production is a triumph. Anisha Fields’ set and costumes shimmer with Southeast Asian inspiration: jewel-toned markets, lush greenery and the looming majesty of Mount Merapi create a vibrant tapestry that ignites the imagination. Jonathan Chan’s lighting adds both intimacy and theatrical spectacle, playing cleverly with fire, shadow and anticipation. Ruth Chan’s music threads through the action like a heartbeat — whimsical one moment, thrilling the next — ensuring the narrative never loses pace. Puppet direction by Maia Kirkman-Richards provides a further layer of enchantment; shadow play and delicate object manipulation lend the show its most magical moments.
What makes this adaptation particularly special is the emotional clarity that runs beneath the playfulness. The story glows with messages about resilience, friendship and self-belief, delivered with a lightness that never feels didactic. The ensemble cast’s deft multi-role performances imbue even the smallest characters with warmth and personality, adding texture and humour throughout. Rose-Marie Christian, in particular, brings irresistible exuberance to Auntie Rambashi’s bustling bravado.
If the first act takes a breath or two to gather its sparks, the second rewards patience in spectacular fashion. As Lila confronts her destiny amid cascading light and sweeping music, the stage erupts into a display that drew audible gasps from children and adults alike during the performance I attended. By the time the final moments unfurl, the production’s emotional and visual fireworks align beautifully.
Polka Theatre has long been known for uplifting, high-quality family work, and this sparkling retelling continues that legacy with flair.The Firework-Maker’s Daughter is a gift of a show: imaginative, artfully staged, and imbued with heart. It is the sort of production that makes young audiences sit forward with shining eyes and sends adults out into the winter air feeling quietly warmed.
A polished, joyous triumph — and undoubtedly one of this season’s most luminous theatrical treats.
The Firework Maker's Daughter at Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB until 18 January 2026
