Group 64's Junior Young Company Goes Gothic
Bringing The Wolves of Willoughby Chase to Putney Arts Theatre
The story is set in an alternative, snow-covered Britain in 1832
January 20, 2026
Group 64’s Junior Young Company returns to the stage this January with a bold and atmospheric adaptation of The Wolves of Willoughby Chase, Joan Aiken’s tale of courage, friendship and peril.
The performance takes place on Thursday 29 January at 7.30pm at Putney Arts Theatre, with a second showing on Friday 30 January at 9pm.
Set in an alternative, snow-covered Britain in 1832, the story follows cousins Bonnie and Sylvia Green, who find themselves battling wolves, wicked adults and a sinister governess intent on seizing control of their family home. With the help of loyal friends, the girls embark on a daring fight for justice in a world where danger lurks both inside and outside the walls of Willoughby Chase.
Audiences can expect a gothic adventure filled with humour, intrigue and the imaginative flair that has become a hallmark of Group 64’s youth productions.
Group 64 Theatre, based at Putney Arts Theatre, has been a cornerstone of youth theatre in south-west London for more than 60 years. Its Junior Young Company, made up of performers aged roughly 8–13, is known for its energy, creativity and ensemble spirit. The company offers young people a chance to develop acting skills, build confidence and collaborate on ambitious productions that often rival the polish of adult theatre groups.
The Junior Young Company typically stages two major shows a year, each one giving its members the chance to take on challenging roles, explore storytelling techniques and work with professional directors and facilitators. Recent productions have ranged from contemporary drama to reimagined classics, all showcasing the group’s commitment to nurturing young talent and giving children a meaningful voice on stage.
Their work is rooted in Group 64’s long-standing ethos: theatre that is inclusive, empowering and driven by the ideas and imagination of young people themselves. The Wolves of Willoughby Chase continues that tradition, offering the cast a rich world of characters,
The production is r ecommended for all ages and Wandsworth Access for All card holders can purchase £3 tickets. More information and booking here. https://www.putneyartstheatre.org.uk/event-6507198
With its blend of gothic storytelling, youthful energy and imaginative staging, this production promises to be a winter highlight for families and theatre-lovers alike.
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