ALEKSANDER AND THE ROBOT MAID

Chekhov meets robots. Sure, it may not seem like an obvious way to describe a kid’s play, but this new production promises to be a rollicking ride for adventurers aged eight and up.  Set in a Russian manor-house of the future, Drop Bear Theatre will create a steam-punk inspired universe, mixing Victorian-era costumes with a fantasy Star Wars style. The story follows a little boy called Aleksander who travels to the hallowed city of Robotika. There he meets an older model robot called Daisy but as relationships are forbidden between humans and robots, their friendship is in jeopardy. Puppetry, incredible period costumes and industrial sets are sure to immerse kids in the steam-punk universe. Writer and former stand-up comic Caleb Lewis says the play will be engaging for adults and children alike. “Kids at that age are dynamic and asking lots of questions,” he says. “One of my pet hates is kid’s theatre that talks down to kids.” Plus after the performance, children are invited to get creative in workshops hosted by Token Imagination. Kids will use a range of recycled and repurposed materials to help build a giant robot. Catch it at The Reginald, the newly re-launched downstairs theatre at the Seymour Centre.

Jul 1-9, Seymour Centre, cnr City Rd & Cleveland St, Chippendale, $13-17, 9114 1555, thereginald.com