Soft or Spiky? at Z-arts

Shekina Rose, Families Editor
Image of actor within the set, wearing green pom poms. Soft or spiky? at z-arts
Half Moon

Soft or Spiky? at Z-arts, Manchester Until 21 February 2026 Tickets from £9.50 — Book now

This February, Half Moon and Polka Theatre present Soft or Spiky? at Z-arts, an interactive production for babies aged 6-18 months which takes little ones into a world of shapes, sounds, and textures. 

What would you ask your baby? And what might they ask you? Soft or Spiky? playfully explores these questions, guiding babies and their grownups through a sensory-rich journey of discovery and fun!

Inspired by real-life conversations with new parents, the show highlights the many different ways we communicate and build understanding with one another.

One of the show’s special features features is its minimal use of language, making it accessible to d/Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and non-English speaking audiences. It’s an inclusive space where every child can participate. 

At the end of each performance, families are invited to a stay-and-play session for more sensory play.  

Soft or Spiky? at Z-arts, Manchester Until 21 February 2026 Tickets from £9.50 Book now

Accessibility

  • Parent and Baby

Performances

Date
Time
Session Features
22 February 2025
2:00pm
21 February 2026
11:00am
21 February 2025
2:00pm

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

Where to go near Soft or Spiky? at Z-arts

Venture Arts
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Clay Studio Manchester
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Clay Studio Manchester

Clay studio was founded in 2016 to provide a dedicated workshop for new graduates, hobby ceramicists and experienced makers. The studio also offers a range of classes for students of all abilities.

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Niamos Centre, Manchester

Niamos is a co-operatively run exhibition, arts, and performance space with a micro bakery, music studio’s, a kitchen and a holistic well-being space in the midst of transformation.

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The Playhouse Theatre, originally known as the Hulme Hippodrome opened its doors on 6 October 1902. In 2018, the historic venue was relaunched as a community arts centre by NIAMOS – a collective of artists, musicians and local residents.

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Homeground

Homeground is HOME’s brand new outdoor venue, providing an open-air space for theatre, food, film, music, comedy and more.

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MMU Birley Campus

Birley is Manchester Met’s world-class centre for Education and Health Professionals and the university’s flagship community campus.

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